What are the responsibilities and job description for the InteGREAT Instructor position at Hockomock YMCA?
The InteGREAT Instructor supports the mission of the Hockomock Area YMCA—a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility—and contributes as an integral member of the InteGREAT program team.
The InteGREAT Instructor is responsible for delivering the educational components of the Integration Initiative Academy, which serves adults with disabilities. In collaboration with the Director, the Instructor will help adapt and refine programming as needed to meet participant needs. Core responsibilities include supporting individuals in developing self-care skills for independent living, securing and maintaining employment in integrated settings, and engaging in wellness and recreational opportunities.
This role involves direct work with individuals who face barriers to employment and independent living. The Instructor will assist participants in identifying skill development goals and job interests, while providing tailored support throughout their journey. Key duties include classroom instruction, client support, and seasonal supervision and coaching at job sites.
Essential Functions
- Provide education to adults with disabilities using established curricula focused on Independent Living, Vocational Skills, Wellness, and Social Skills development.
- Review and assess curricula regularly, communicating concerns or recommendations for adjustments to the Director to meet the evolving needs of program participants.
- Implement social skill development activities aimed at enhancing communication, relationship-building, and other interpersonal abilities.
- Deliver instruction and resources that support independent living, including self-care, budgeting, time management, and decision-making.
- Build relationships with clients and their families/caregivers to understand client-centered goals and ensure instructional content supports group ISP (Individual Service Plan) objectives.
- Supervise job coaches and/or student interns, including managing schedules and facilitating supervision meetings as requested by the Director.
- Maintain accurate records and data for administrative and evaluation purposes, including participant progress, employment history, and accommodation needs.
- Foster partnerships and identify employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities by leveraging community and organizational resources.
- Support employers in understanding job accommodations and strategies for successfully including individuals with disabilities in their workforce.
- Provide ongoing participant support, including vocational counseling, skill development, job training, and travel training as needed.
- Represent the program at resource fairs, conferences, and other events, tailoring presentations to suit diverse audiences.
- Stay informed about current challenges and opportunities related to independent living, social development, wellness, and available supports for individuals with disabilities.
- Facilitate programming that promotes social development, peer-to-peer recreational engagement, coping strategies, and emotional well-being.
- Perform other duties as assigned to support the success and growth of the program.
- Bachelor’s degree or higher in Education, Occupational Therapy, Recreational Therapy, or a related field; or a minimum of five years of relevant experience.
- Experience in an educational setting, including direct work with individuals with disabilities.
- Knowledge of adaptive equipment and inclusive approaches for supporting individuals with disabilities.
- CPR, First Aid, and Oxygen certification required prior to the program’s launch.
- Ability to respond effectively to emergency and safety-related situations.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to coach, support, and collaborate effectively.
