Skills Trainer needed for Adult

Description

We are looking for an experienced, dedicated, patient, and joyful skills trainer to work with our 29-year-old son Matthew, who has autism. He is a very happy, pleasant, gentle individual who is verbal and can read and write, with the caveat that he does not have the fluency of a neurotypical person. He tends to speak in short phrases except when he feels strongly about something, in which case he will elaborate. He has never been aggressive or violent. He likes music, science, and history and enjoys going to the library, YMCA, stores, concerts and museums.
Matty lives with his parents in Sherborn and attends the Nashoba Learning Group Adult program in Billerica MA from 9:15am to 3:15am from Monday-Friday and usually arrives home between 4:15 and 4:45pm on those days.
The ideal candidate would accompany Matty on various community excursions and also help him become more adept at adult daily living skills, to improve his independence. Patience is a must here because he has a movement disorder that means he tends to walk slowly and deliberately. It would be a great plus if you play piano and could help Matty reestablish some joy of playing (he took lessons for several years when he was young and can read music).
The hours requested are 3-4 hours in the afternoon starting around 4:30 and into early evening Mon-Friday and, also, possibly some weekend hours. However, we are willing to be flexible regarding the number of hours/days worked.
We participate in the Advocates Agency with Choice program and interested candidates would be hired through Advocates. Below is the agency's description of the Skills Trainer requirements.


Title: Skills Trainer Agency with Choice (In-Home & Community)
Department: Family Supports

Overview:

The Skills Trainer works in a 1:1 setting assisting an individual with developmental disabilities in participating in home and community-based activities.

Advocates promotes a healthy work-life balance and offers many generous perks of employment and room for advancement. We are a strong-knit community that values the ideas and contributions from our staff.

Are you ready to make a difference?

Responsibilities:
• Provide support and training in community integration, behavior modification, self-care, self-preservation, receptive and expressive communication, and self-direction.
• Provide travel training using the RIDE, establish more social connections and interests, and possibly job coaching, or engaging in social activities in the community
• Practicing community safety and self-preservation skills
• Her interests include drawing, music, movies, etc.
• Work with the individual to increase their independent, and community living skills. This may include, learning to create a grocery list using a weekly meal plan, meal planning and preparation, money management, executive functioning skills, accessing community programs and services, or participating in a community group activity using a gym.
• Ensure that the individual we support is treated with dignity and respect in accordance with Advocates’ Human Rights Policy.
• Adhere to all principles related to the Advocates Way.
• Attend trainings as assigned; maintain necessary certifications (CPR, First Aid).
• Perform all duties in accordance with the agency’s policies and procedures.


Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in a related field such as education or psychology and at least two years of relevant experience in working on skills development with individuals with developmental disabilities, or Bachelor’s degree is in an unrelated field with a minimum of three years working with individuals with developmental disabilities, or high School Diploma/ GED Certificate and at least five years of relevant experience in working on skills development with individuals with developmental disabilities.
• Basic computer knowledge.
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing and ability to use good judgment.
• Demonstrated commitment to the principles and practices of individual empowerment and community integration.
• Sensitivity to the needs of the population we support
• Maintain patience and calm, supportive communication at all times. A positive attitude is essential to this position.
• High energy level, superior interpersonal skills and ability to function in a team atmosphere
• Must hold a valid drivers’ license. Must have access to an operational and insured vehicle and be willing to use it to transport individuals.
• Must be willing to provide proof of a negative COVID test prior to providing services.


Advocates is an EOE/D/F/M/V.