Join the BuildAbility Team as the Lead Instructor

Are you someone who finds joy in assisting others in reaching their goals? Do you prefer being out in the community rather than confined to a desk? Currently, we're on the lookout for a Lead Instructor to lend support to participants and staff in our Behavior Management Day Program. The Lead Instructor can specialize in one of the following focus areas: Visual Arts, Performing Arts, or Community and Recreation. 

Why work with us:

• Meaningful Mission: Be a part of a team that's transforming lives and empowering individuals within the community. Our mission is to carve out a space for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities, encouraging them to envision a life without limitations and then guiding them toward turning that vision into a reality.
• Inclusive Environment: Join an organization that values diversity, anti-racism, and inclusion in all aspects of our work.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Enjoy competitive compensation starting at $21.00 - $22.00/hour, along with a generous benefits package for full-time staff.
• If our values align with yours, then this opportunity is tailor-made for you!

Our Behavior Management Day Program:

• The Options Program is our site-based day program; we support adults with developmental disabilities and behavioral challenges, focusing on positive behavior supports, social inclusion, pre-vocational/life skills, and a range of interests.
• This program also includes community access for people who have developed the skills needed to explore the community safely.

As the Lead Instructor, you will be responsible for:

• Acting as a personal mentor to support the growth, skills, and vision of the participants paired with you.
• Following the directions of and reporting to the Program Manager, Program Supervisor, and Director of Programs.
• Communicating professionally with co-workers, participants, and community members.
• Exhibiting proactive approaches to resolving issues and updating the Program Manager and Program Supervisor as situations occur within the program.
• Supporting training, skills practice, participant documentation, and task timelines related to the personal development of participants, facilitating sequential goals.
• Collaborating with the leadership team to develop objectives integrating self-expression and communication while maintaining notes on projects and individual progress.
• Supporting implementation of weekly instructional plans with staff to ensure continuity and organization of the program space.
• Coordinating daily activities regarding the participants' individual preference and their ISP goals.
• Documenting curriculum to reflect courses offered and developing paths for personal growth with participants under the direction of the Program Manager and Director of Programs.
• Training staff and providing real-time feedback to utilize alternative supports to optimize independence.
• Providing any level of direct support required by program participants, including personal care in the restroom, assistance to eat and drink, and coaching individualized instruction.
• Reporting employee issues and conflicts to the Program Manager and Director of Programs immediately.
• Offering proactive suggestions and solutions to improve the programs; working with the Program Manager, Program Supervisor, and team to incorporate strategies for improvement, team development, and program growth.
• Completing work consistently and on time; ensures work responsibilities are covered when absent.
• Attends meetings, training, and in-services, as requested by the Program Manager and Director of Programs.
• Maintaining high professional standards and complying with BuildAbility and program-specific policies.
• Performing other duties as assigned to meet department and/or business needs.

Schedule:

• Full-time (33-35 hours/week)
• Monday to Friday (8:00/8:30 a.m. - 3:30/4:00 p.m.)

Work location:

• San Fernando CA, 91340

Compensation:

• Starting at $21.00 - $22.00 /hour (dependent upon prior experience and qualifications).

Benefits (Full-Time Staff):

• 90% coverage for Medical and 100% coverage for Dental and Vision insurance
• 100% Employer Paid Life Insurance for up to 2X the annual salary with Reliance Standard
• Paid vacation starting at 2 weeks per year
• 56 hours of paid sick leave
• 13 paid holidays per year
• 403(b) retirement savings plan
• Employee Assistance Program
• Opportunity for Career Advancement

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum of one year of experience serving people with developmental/intellectual disabilities.
• High School Diploma or GED.
• Crisis Response Management Certification required (or obtain within 60-days of hire)
• Must have current CPR/First Aid Certificate (or obtain within 60-days of hire)
• Must have a valid California Driver’s License and proof of automobile insurance
• Proof of Criminal Background Clearance
• Proof of a passing physical exam and TB clearance
• Proof of eligibility to work in the United States
• Proof of two COVID-19 vaccination doses or submit a request for accommodation based upon a medical condition or deeply held religious belief.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or comparable experience.
• Two years experience in training, teaching, and/or supervision of clients/students.
• Training in behavior modification and/or positive teaching techniques.
• Familiarity with regional center-funded services.
• Fluent in Spanish. 

Knowledge and Skills:

• Able to assist with personal care needs of individuals, including restroom support and feeding.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and interpersonal skills, including the ability to resolve disputes
• Strong computer skills (Outlook, Word, Excel).
• Ability to learn and confidently use program support software.
• Strong attention to detail with a high accuracy rate.
• Dependable, reliable, and demonstrated strong work ethic.
• Possess a high level of discretion and confidentiality.