Adaptive Skills Specialist / Trainer

The Adaptive Skills Specialist is responsible for working directly with individuals with developmental disabilities to teach, reinforce, and develop essential adaptive skills that increase independence and improve quality of life. This position involves creating individualized learning plans, conducting assessments, and providing one-on-one and group training in various life skills, such as communication, daily living tasks, social skills, and vocational readiness.

Key Responsibilities:

• Implement individualized skill-building programs that align with the goals and needs of each client.
• Provide direct training in areas such as personal hygiene, budgeting, social interaction, communication, and other life skills.
• Conduct assessments to identify the client's current level of adaptive functioning and create appropriate learning strategies.
• Use evidence-based methods and techniques to teach adaptive skills in both structured and natural environments.
• Monitor client progress and adjust programs as needed to ensure effectiveness and goal attainment.
• Work collaboratively with other professionals such as behavior specialists, occupational therapists, and social workers to provide comprehensive services.
• Maintain accurate documentation of client progress, including daily logs, assessments, and incident reports.
• Provide family education and support to ensure carryover of skills into the home and community environment.
• Ensure that all services are provided in compliance with state and federal regulations, and center policies.
• Participate in team meetings and case conferences to share insights and updates on client progress.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, Education, or a related field.
• Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities or in special education settings.
• Knowledge of adaptive behavior assessments and skill development techniques.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to adapt strategies to meet the unique needs of each client.
• Commitment to the empowerment and dignity of people with disabilities.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certification or training in applied behavior analysis (ABA) or other relevant therapeutic methods.
• Experience with behavior management techniques.
• Familiarity with assistive technologies and adaptive devices.
• Experience in conducting staff training or leading workshops.

Working Conditions:

• Part-time position, with possible evening or weekend hours depending on client needs.
• Work may be performed in both center-based and community-based environments.
• The role may require physical activity, such as assisting with mobility or performing tasks related to skill training.

Benefits:

• Company iPad provided
• Referral program
• Cell phone reimbursement
• Paid sick time
• Flexible schedule
• Hourly Pay

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Expected hours: 10 – 18 per week

Schedule:

• After school
• Day shift
• Evening shift
• Monday to Friday
• Saturdays as needed

Ability to Commute:

• Van Nuys, CA (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Van Nuys, CA: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Language:

• English (Required)
• Spanish (Preferred)
• Armenian (Preferred)
• Other (Preferred)

Patient demographics:

• Adolescent and Children

Work Location: In person