Independent Living Instructor

Overview

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, community outings, and using 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.

9200 Fair Oaks Blvd. Fair Oaks, CA 95628

Monday – Friday 7:00 am – 1:00 pm. Occasional schedule flexibility is required to provide additional student support as needed.

$21-$23 per hour, depending on experience

Medical/Dental/ and Vision Benefits

• Assess and track students’ progress with projects and lessons
• Provide detailed notes from the field based on students’ goals and the type of support needed
• Assist students with the implementation of goals by having a clear knowledge of the IPP/ISP
• Submit reports before the end of shift for any behaviors categorized as needing to be reported to Regional Centers, governmental reporting standards, and internal processes
• Maintain the living environment resources to ensure instructional material is in condition, supplies are restocked, and needs are requested by management
• Apply instructional time with students in cooking, cleaning, shopping, menu planning, meal preparation, money management, public transportation, health and hygiene, self-advocacy, independent recreation, medical, dental, and community resources
• 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
• Perform other duties as assigned

• One year of experience working with people on the neurodiverse spectrum or in a related field
• Valid California Driver’s License and the ability to drive a company vehicle
• Education and working knowledge of individuals with developmental disabilities
• Understand healthy nutrition and the ability to cook for up to six (6) students
• Effective capability in defusing escalating situations
• Exceptional communication, time management, and organizational abilities
• Actively engage in research and employ evidence-based assessment methods
• Adaptability in devising innovative solutions to evolving classroom dynamics
• Ability to use G Suite

• 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
• Experience and/or knowledge with Medisked, Kibu, or similar platforms

Pre-Employment Background and Drug Test Required