Education Specialist

About the role

The Educational Specialist at AID is responsible for developing, training, and implementing meaningful and purposeful programming in AID's Community Day Service (CDS) settings. The role involves addressing a wide range of interests and needs, from fine and gross motor skills to social interaction and community integration.

Responsibilities

• Agency programming development – including on-going revisions and additions
• Develop framework and expectations for structured day program activities such as: cooking, educational classes, gym/physical activity, outings, vocational skills, Fun Fridays, skill acquisition, Smartboard, crafts, etc.
• Developing and maintaining individualized schedules, documentation, training, and programming as needed
• Training and supporting staff on programming/curriculum implementation
• Training, modeling, and supporting staff to facilitate 1 on 1, small group and large group learning activities
• Incorporating individualized client outcomes into CDS programming
• Consultation, training, and support to clients Inter-Disciplinary Team
• Observation and consultation of potential new clients or current clients for intake, placement, supports, and programming needs
• Autism consultation regarding program and client needs
• Provide Autism training/orientation for staff
• Provide training for staff on CDS programming related topics, such as: activity facilitation, differentiation, levels of participation, modes of communication, etc.
• Maintain and expand community engagement (outings, volunteer sites, on-site guests, etc.)
• Autism support for clients residing in AID CILA programs – recommendations for outcomes, accommodations, and modifications for success in the CILA environment
• Collaborate with Program Manager to ensure client programming and schedules are implemented as established
• Collaborate with BCBA (regarding client’s behavioral needs, plan revisions, accommodations, modifications for client’s programming needs, etc.)
• Conduct observations and provide feedback to staff on best practices and programming expectations
• Develop and maintain partnerships, coordinate schedules, and train on skills utilized at volunteer sites, AID Warehouse, food deliveries, etc.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Education
• Licenses/Certifications: Professional Educators License (Type 03, 09, or 10)
• Experience: 2 years working with individuals with developmental disabilities including autism and 2 years of teaching experience
• Preferred: Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education, Illinois State Board of Education LBS1/Type 10, DSP Training, QIDP Training, CPI Training, Curriculum Development Experience

Skills

• Physical: No lifting restrictions, able to lift 50 pounds, standing, walking, and/or sitting for significant periods of time, able to run for brief periods of time, able to climb a ladder
• Equipment: Computer, Email, Microsoft Office, SharePoint, Board Maker, Interactive White Board, CX360, Relias, Paycom, etc., Audio Visual Equipment, Assistive Technology, Adaptive Equipment (Lifting device, gait belt, walker, wheelchair, etc.), Tablets including iPads, Copier/Printer, Laminator, Walkie-Talkies, Telephone/Cell Phone

Benefits

Full Time employees receive a $1000 sign on bonus, 21 days of paid time off plus 10 paid holidays, paid training, tuition reimbursement, benefits including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, STD, LTD, Critical Illness and accident insurance, and a 3.5% company contribution to a 401K after one year.