DESE Skills Trainer

Position Summary:

The DESE Skills Trainer supports individuals with developmental disabilities in achieving independence and active participation in their homes and community. This role focuses on assisting with activities of daily living (ADLs), independent living skills, and community integration, providing hands-on support and guidance in collaboration with the Senior Director.

Availability: Monday - Friday after 3 pm or Sat/Sun flexibility.

Hours: 4-5 hours/week

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist individuals with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Independent Activities of Daily Living (IADLs), including personal hygiene, meal preparation, cooking, laundry, and use of phones or other electronic devices.
• Support the participant’s engagement in community-based activities, such as using public transportation, accessing community resources, and participating in recreational or group programs (e.g., swim, gym, library).
• Encourage skill development in community living, including shopping, making purchases, and navigating social and civic settings.
• Collaborate with the DDS/Senior Director to ensure services are person-centered and aligned with individual goals.
• Maintain documentation of services provided as required.
• Maintain compliance with all KDC policies, DDS regulations, and quality service standards.
• Perform other job-related responsibilities as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• At least five years of relevant experience supporting skill development for individuals with developmental disabilities.
• Commitment to community-based, family-centered supports for individuals with developmental disabilities.
• Competence in Microsoft Office and ability to use electronic documentation systems.
• Strong organizational, documentation, and communication skills.
• CPR/First Aid Certified (or ability to obtain certification within designated timeframe).
• Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and willingness to travel extensively.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in a related field such as Education, Psychology, or Human Services.
• Experience facilitating community integration activities and independent living skills.
• Bilingual or multilingual abilities.

Core Competencies:

• Client-Centered Approach: Prioritizes the needs, preferences, and goals of participants.
• Communication: Effectively interacts with individuals, families, and team members.
• Problem Solving & Adaptability: Responds to challenges with practical solutions.
• Collaboration: Works effectively with internal teams, families, and community providers.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements:

• Travel: Frequent travel to client homes, community locations, and DESE program sites. Travel may include navigating urban, suburban, and rural areas, with occasional exposure to varying weather conditions. Prolonged periods of driving may be required.
• Mobility & Activity: Ability to enter and work in a variety of home and community environments, including multi-story homes, apartments, and public spaces with physical or environmental challenges (stairs, limited accessibility, pets, or varying temperatures). Extended periods of walking, standing, bending, reaching, and navigating different environments are required.
• Lifting & Carrying: Occasional lifting, pushing, or carrying of up to 25 pounds to assist individuals, transport program materials, or set up community activity equipment.
• Computer & Documentation: Frequent use of computers, tablets, and other technology for documentation, progress notes, and communication. Extended periods of sitting may be required.
• Physical Assistance & Crisis Support: May provide hands-on support to participants with mobility needs or during crisis situations, following SafetyCare, trauma-informed, and person-centered practices.
• Schedule Flexibility: Ability to work varied hours, including evenings and weekends.
• Environmental Conditions: Work occurs in a combination of indoor and outdoor settings, including homes, community spaces, and program sites. May involve exposure to moderate noise, varying temperatures, and other environmental factors.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential to interact effectively with participants, families, staff, and community partners.
• Emotional Demands: Regular exposure to emotionally sensitive or high-stress situations, including participant crises, behavioral challenges, and family dynamics. Requires emotional resilience, empathy, and professionalism while remaining calm, supportive, and solution-focused.

Salary : $30