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), telephone/cell phone/internet use, and developing adaptations.
• Mobility Training: Supervise and train individuals on accessing public transportation, familiarizing with 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 encouraging participation in parent skills, family life, and sexual 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 assistance and proper dressing for weather/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 (fire, earthquake) and promoting awareness of 911 and emergency services.
• Community Resources Awareness: Supervise and support individuals in accessing public/community resources advantageously.
• 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, communicating health/medication updates. Train individuals on proper medication storage, documentation, and procedures (SLS Instructors will NOT administer medication).
• Health and Nutrition Skills: Supervise and train individuals in following recommended diet 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 becoming aware of their rights, identifying rights violations, and promoting self-reliance, self-esteem, 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 benefits, 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: Gains 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 general regulations.
• Ability to write legible and accurate notes related to individuals’ goals/objectives.
• Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from consumers, support circles, 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

• Education: High School Diploma or GED.
• License, Registrations, or Certifications:
  • Valid driver’s license and good driving record (as defined by policy).
  • Fingerprint and criminal clearance record.
  • TB screening clearance.
  • Valid first aid/CPR training certificate.
  • 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.
• Experience: Additional experience with people with developmental disabilities preferred or as required by regulations.

Physical Demands

• Ability to lift at least 50 pounds.
• Ability to perform daily standing, bending, and lifting.
• Must be able to stand for 8 hours at a time.