Independent Living Skills Instructor

Job Overview
The Independent Living Skills Instructor plays a vital role in empowering individuals who are blind or visually impaired to achieve greater independence. This position involves instructing clients using the VIPS Independent Living Skills curriculum to teach essential skills for home and personal management. The instructor tailors training sessions/curriculum to meet clients' unique needs and goals, ensuring a supportive and solution-oriented environment.

The role requires close collaboration with clients, team members, and other stakeholders to develop schedules, assess progress, and overcome barriers to learning. Instructors are also responsible for maintaining accurate records and promoting VIPS’ mission internally and externally.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrated knowledge of independent living skills and the ability to train others effectively.
• Strong organizational skills: ability to prioritize tasks, work independently, and manage schedules with minimal supervision.
• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) in diverse settings, including individual, small, and large groups.
• Ability to work effectively with clients of varying skill levels.
• Physical ability to:
• Sit and stand for extended periods (up to 2 hours at a time).
• Work in close proximity to VIPS clients and service animals.
• Lift and carry up to 25 pounds over short distances.
• Must have a reliable form of transportation to and from clients’ homes.

Instructional Duties

• Teach clients skills and techniques to help them achieve independence in home and personal management.
• Provide training in areas such as meal preparation, kitchen and home management, and other independent living skills, delivered in individual and small group settings.
• Topics include but are not limited to:
• Cooking and knife skills
• Use of appliances
• General housekeeping
• Money identification
• Other tasks/skills outlined in individual plans

Client Support

• Customize meal plans to meet clients’ dietary needs.
• Recognize challenges clients face during training and implement solutions to help them achieve their goals.
• Collaborate with VIPS team members to resolve barriers to learning.

Planning and Administration

• Develop schedules and plans for classes.
• Prepare class materials, including requisitioning supplies, food items, and kitchen equipment needed for instruction.
• Conduct skills assessments for clients.
• Maintain accurate and timely case notes and records.

Communication and Collaboration

• Interact effectively with clients, coworkers, and supervisors via phone, email, and in person.
• Promote VIPS positively through presentations and interactions internally and externally.
• Work collaboratively with VIPS staff members and members of the client’s support team.

Compliance and Organization Support

• Maintain client confidentiality as required by federal and state laws.
• Follow and support VIPS policies and procedures.
• Attend routine and mandatory staff meetings.
• Ensure compliance with safety rules, as well as state and federal laws and regulations.
• Assist the VIPS Board of Supervisors and staff in improving the organization and maintaining a safe, harassment-free, and discrimination-free work environment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Experience

• High school diploma/GED and two years of work experience in social services, working with the blind/visually impaired or disabled, para-education, medical field or a related educational field; OR
• Be visually impaired with a high school diploma/GED, demonstrated independent living skills, and four years of successful work experience.
• Associates or higher is preferred
• Fluency in both Spanish and English is preferred.
• Ability to collect data accurately and maintain detailed records of student progress is important.

Join us in making a positive impact on the lives of those we serve by applying your skills and passion as an Instructor!

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $18.00 - $23.00 per hour

Expected hours: 20 – 27 per week

Benefits:

• Mileage reimbursement
• Paid time off
• Paid training

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Language:

• spanish (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Modesto, CA 95354 (Required)

Willingness to travel:

• 50% (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $18 - $23