Independent Living Instructor

Job Description:

This isn’t just a job, it’s a calling!

Our mission at Meristem is to prepare young adults on the autism spectrum to build a strong sense of self, develop an enhanced social capacity, and create a life of increased social and economic independence. We strive to create a world where the unique capabilities of adults on the spectrum are respected and appreciated. We facilitate the ability of adults with autism to have full and meaningful lives, with ample opportunities for mainstream employment and independent living.

We operate a small college-like campus in Fair Oaks that houses many of our students full-time. We are seeking a passionate and dependable individual who excels in a client-facing role and is motivated to help the client succeed. The Independent Living Instructor will assist students in shopping, meal planning, cooking healthy, nutritious meals, creating budgets, developing healthy social interactions, going on community outings, and the use of public transportation. The Independent Living Instructor will be a coach and role model.

Meristem is a great place to work and grow. We all work together, motivating those around us with our commitment to high standards. At Meristem, we have a terrific work culture and provide the opportunity to work in a beautiful setting with an amazing purpose.

Location:           9200 Fair Oaks Blvd. Fair Oaks, CA 95628
Status:               Nonexempt, Part-time
Schedule:          TWO SHIFTS AVAILABLE -  Occasional schedule flexibility is required to                               provide additional student support as needed.

SHIFT 1:  Monday - Friday 2:30 pm -10:00 pm
SHIFT 2:  Friday 4:30 -10:00 pm and Saturday/Sunday 12 noon - 8:00 pm
                         
Our compensation shows how much we value our team!

$20-$25 per hour, depending on experience

Job Responsibilities:

• Work directly with the students to provide continuous support in their daily routines
• Equip students by training in the completion of household chores, including laundry, light housework, and preparation of daily meals
• Provide instruction on completing errands, doctor’s appointments, grocery shopping, personal errands, etc.
• Education on self-care needs as necessary
• Collaborate with members of the student’s circle of support to ensure that they can remain in their current placement
• Perform daily record-keeping and maintenance of assessments on each student
• Exercise mature judgment and relate to individuals in a warm and caring manner
• Assist students with the implementation of goals by having a clear knowledge of the IPP/ISP:
  • Facilitate tasks and support as needed to ensure that the goals of the individual are met
• Advocate and liaise to support the individual student’s goals and aspirations
• Participate as a member of the interdisciplinary team to ensure consistency in meeting the individual’s needs
• Attend regularly scheduled staff meetings and continuing education training
• Assist the individual in taking prescribed medication correctly
• Respond appropriately in case of emergency
• Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements:

• Valid California Driver’s License and the ability to drive a company vehicle
• One year of experience working with people on the neurodiverse spectrum or in a related field
• Education and working knowledge of individuals with developmental disabilities
• Understand healthy nutrition and the ability to cook for up to six (6) students

Experience in any of these areas is a plus:

• Experience in Independent Living or Supported Living
• A bachelor’s degree in special education, education, educational psychology, psychology, human development, behavioral analysis, early childhood education, speech/language pathology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, social work, or closely related fields is preferred but not required.

Pre-Employment Background and Drug Test Required