Paraprofessional Educator

At Ability, we are committed to improving the quality of life for individuals with developmental or physical disabilities, by alleviating barriers to their independence and striving to help them reach their full potential.

Join our team as a Job Coach/Parapro Instructor and make a difference for special needs families!

Why Choose to work at Ability?

• Create a Positive Impact: You will have the opportunity to truly impact the lives of individuals with special needs and their families. Your invaluable support and mentorship have the power to empower them, enabling the pursuit of their dreams and the experience of fulfilling and enriching lives.
• On-Site Training: Our commitment lies in delivering thorough training and continuous professional development, equipping you with the necessary knowledge and skills to thrive in your role.
• Team Centered Environment: In our nurturing work environment, we prioritize the essence of teamwork, collaboration, and open communication. As a valued member of our dedicated team, you'll find like-minded individuals who share a profound passion for enhancing the lives of special needs families. Together, we work hand in hand, fostering a culture of support and understanding to make a meaningful difference in the lives we touch.
• Schedules That Fit Your Needs: At our organization, we pride ourselves on offering a diverse range of shift options, catering to various preferences and schedules. Whether you're an early riser or a night owl, seeking part-time or full-time commitments, we have the perfect fit for you. Embracing flexibility and inclusivity, our goal is to ensure that our team members can choose shifts that best align with their lifestyles, empowering them to provide the best care possible to individuals with special needs and their families around the clock.
• Comprehensive Benefits: We offer competitive compensation, benefits and paid time off.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

- Assessment & Planning: Collaborate with DDD Support Coordinators and members to assess vocational strengths, interests, and needs. Develop tailored employment plans aligned with the Pathways to Employment framework, including goals for skill-building and job placement.

- Instruction & Teaching: Develop and implement structured lesson plans based on in-house training modules, ensuring that content is engaging, accessible, and tailored to the learning needs of our members. Monitor lesson execution to confirm alignment with established objectives, making real-time adjustments as needed to enhance comprehension and participation.

- Job Development: Identify and cultivate relationships with local employers to create job opportunities that match members’ abilities and aspirations. Assist members with resume creation, job applications, and interview preparation.

- On-the-Job Training: Provide hands-on coaching at worksites, teaching job-specific skills, workplace etiquette, and problem-solving strategies. Use task analysis and systematic instruction to ensure members succeed in their roles.

- Ongoing Support: Offer one-on-one guidance to help members maintain employment, addressing challenges such as time management, communication with coworkers, or adapting to workplace changes.

- Skill Development: Facilitate vocational training sessions (e.g., workplace readiness, self-advocacy, or soft skills) in community or center-based settings as needed, preparing members for long-term success.

- Collaboration: Partner with DDD Employment Specialists, Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) counselors, and family members to ensure a cohesive support system. Participate in quarterly planning meetings to update progress and adjust plans.

- Documentation: Maintain accurate records of member progress, hours worked, and support provided in compliance with DDD and Ability agency standards. Submit reports to Support Coordinators as required.

- Advocacy: Promote inclusion and educate employers about the benefits of hiring individuals with disabilities, fostering welcoming and accessible work environments.

Leading with Integrity:

- Exhibits ethical and moral behavior in everyday business conduct

- Earns the trust of others by disclosing information and admitting mistakes

- Ensures organizational ethics are widely understood

- Able to ask questions when unsure of how to best accomplish certain tasks

- Leads by example

Qualifications:

- High School diploma or GED

- Applicants must meet one of the following qualifications, per DDD (Division of - Developmental Disabilities) requirements:

o Five (5) years of experience as a paraprofessional OR Two (2) years of vocational experience working with individuals as a job coach.

o Undergraduate degree in a related field

- Must possess a valid Arizona Driver’s license and have a 39 month driving record free of violations per Ability, LLC insurance carrier

- Able to read, write, and speak English fluently

- Must be able to obtain a level 1 fingerprint clearance card

- Must have or obtain CPR/First Aid Certification and Article 9

- Must be able to pass all training classes/State and Federal certification requirements

- Must have exceptional communication skills

What We Offer You:

• Competitive pay at $18.00 per hour
• Flexible, consistent schedules (part-time)
• Health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, and life insurance for 30 hour work week
• Paid training and paid fingerprint clearance card
• Family-oriented environment
• Career development and advancement opportunities

At Ability, we are committed to providing a supportive work environment and a chance to make a difference in people’s lives on a daily basis. Join our team today and help us create a brighter future for individuals with intellectual disabilities!

How to Apply: We invite you to apply today but submitting your application. To learn more about this opportunity, please call 928-515-2370, Option 2, or visit us at abilityaz.com.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: Up to $18.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Referral program
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person