SLS INSTRUCTOR

About the Role

The SLS Instructor provides one-on-one individual instruction and training to encourage independence at the highest possible level. Instructors serve as advocates and liaisons on behalf of the individuals being supported, developing strong personal relationships to maximize successful community integration.

Responsibilities

• Employment Preparation: Supervise individuals while acquiring skills for successful employment, including personal appearance/hygiene, job applications/interviews, resume building, time management, communication, and safety awareness.
• Communication Skills: Supervise and train individuals in using facilitated communication devices (Braille, Sign Language, augmentative devices), telephones, cell phones, and the internet.
• Mobility Training: Supervise and train individuals on accessing public transportation, understanding bus routes, DMV materials, and obtaining bus passes.
• Education Training: Supervise and train individuals on enrolling in classes, applying for financial aid, maintaining attendance, completing assignments, and other educational skills (e.g., parent skills, family life education).
• Money Management: Supervise and train individuals in budgeting, making change, purchasing, counting, and price comparisons.
• Self-Help Skills: Supervise and train individuals in basic hygiene tasks, including bathing and dressing appropriately for weather and environment.
• Environmental Awareness and Public Adaptation: Supervise and train individuals on safely accessing public professionals and developing natural supports in all settings.
• Personal and Public Safety Skills: Supervise and train individuals in recognizing stranger danger, safe vs. unsafe environments, and street safety skills.
• Emergency Preparedness: Supervise and train individuals on remaining safe during emergencies (e.g., fire, earthquake) and using 911 and emergency services.
• Community Resources Awareness: Supervise and support individuals in accessing public/community resources.
• Health and Fitness: Supervise, train, and support individuals with diet programs, exercise, medical conditions, and making healthy food choices.
• Health Assistance and Medication: Supervise and support individuals during medical appointments, communicate health updates, and train on proper medication storage, documentation, and procedures. Note: Instructors do not administer medication.
• Health and Nutrition Skills: Supervise and train individuals on following recommended diets and nutrition needs, including hand-over-hand feeding assistance when necessary.
• Home Maintenance: Supervise and train individuals on maintaining a safe and clean-living environment, including laundry tasks.
• Self-Advocacy Skills: Supervise and support individuals in understanding their rights, identifying violations, and promoting self-reliance and empowerment.
• Living Options: Supervise and train individuals on making choices about living locations, roommates, and cost of living.
• Benefit Planning: Supervise and train individuals on accessing Medi-Cal, applying for SSI, scheduling/canceling appointments, and navigating immigration/citizenship processes.
• Shopping Skills: Supervise and support individuals with grocery shopping, making healthy food choices, budgeting, and price comparisons.

Behavioral Competencies

• Drives Vision & Purpose: Paints a compelling picture of the mission to motivate bold action.
• Quality Decisions: Leverages data and expertise to make timely, person-centered decisions.
• Action-Oriented: Takes on new opportunities with urgency, energy, and adaptability.
• Drives Results: Consistently achieves results under challenging circumstances.
• Courageous: Addresses difficult situations and communicates necessary truths to advance the mission.
• Instills Trust: Builds confidence through honesty, integrity, transparency, and accountability.
• Drives Engagement: Creates an environment where people are motivated to do their best.
• Cultivates Innovation: Encourages new and better ways to perform work.

Requirements

• At least 6 months of direct supervision experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret regulations.
• Ability to write legible and accurate notes related to individuals’ goals/objectives.
• Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from individuals, their support networks, Regional Center, and the public.
• Proficiency in English and any additional language based on individual needs.
• Ability to use independent judgment during services and emergencies.
• Possess a cell phone for communication with management and payroll responsibilities (e.g., viewing schedules, submitting time-off requests, punching in/out).

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Valid driver’s license and good driving record (as defined by policy).
• Fingerprint and criminal clearance record.
• TB screening clearance.
• Valid certificate in first aid/CPR.
• Some positions may require access to a vehicle in sound operating condition and proof of current auto insurance.
• Clear background checks as defined by regulations and policies.
• Additional experience with people with developmental disabilities preferred.

Physical Demands

• Ability to lift at least 50 pounds.
• Daily standing, bending, and lifting.
• Ability to stand for 8 hours at a time.