What are the responsibilities and job description for the In-Home Life Skills Instructor position at Vista Autism Services?
Intensive & In-Home Life Skills Instructor (IIH LSI)
Full-Time | Community & Home-Based | Hershey, PA Region
About the Role
As an Intensive & In-Home Life Skills Instructor, you will work directly with adults with autism and other developmental disabilities in their homes and local communities, helping them build practical life skills, strengthen relationships, and move toward greater independence.
This is deeply personal work. You will become part of the family’s support system, helping individuals and their caregivers learn new routines, reduce stress, and take meaningful steps toward long-term goals like joining Day Services, pursuing employment, strengthening friendships, or participating in the community more independently.
Many of the individuals served in the IIH program eventually “graduate” into less intensive supports. Watching someone outgrow the level of support they once needed—and knowing you helped make that possible—is one of the most rewarding parts of the job.
You do not need prior direct-care experience. What matters most is compassion, patience, and a genuine desire to help families thrive.
Why You’ll Love Working in the IIH Program
- You make a difference at home, where your support has the greatest impact on daily life
- You build authentic, long-term relationships with the individuals and families you serve
- You help adults gain confidence and skills that open doors to new programs and opportunities
- You are part of a highly supportive, collaborative team
- You receive paid training—no experience needed
- You see transformational change happen before your eyes
- Full-time, stable weekday schedule (between 8 AM–5 PM)
What You’ll Do
- Work directly with individuals in their homes to build essential life skills
- Support families by establishing routines that make daily living easier and more successful
- Help adults practice cooking, cleaning, laundry, personal care, communication skills, and household responsibilities
- Coach individuals in the community—at parks, stores, libraries, volunteer sites, and recreation activities
- Assist adults in building confidence and readiness for Day Services, Employment Services, or other next steps
- Encourage social connection, community engagement, and meaningful relationships
- Document progress in clear, simple notes using Vista’s tools
- Treat every individual and family with dignity, patience, and respect
- Maintain reliable communication with families, supervisors, and team members
- Use technology (tablets, apps, EVV, etc.) to record services efficiently
- Provide transportation during community outings in company provided vehicles
Who Thrives in This Role
You will thrive in the IIH program if you are:
- Compassionate, patient, and steady under pressure
- Someone who values family relationships and person-centered care
- A good listener and strong communicator
- Comfortable working in someone’s home respectfully and professionally
- Creative in adjusting to the needs and comfort levels of families
- Reliable, organized, and committed to helping others succeed
- Someone who finds meaning in supporting adults to reach their goals at their own pace
Experience in childcare, caregiving, retail, hospitality, teaching, community support, or human services often transfers very well.
Minimum Requirements
(Kept accessible while meeting program standards)
- High school diploma or GED
- Valid PA driver’s license and reliable transportation
- Ability to travel to homes and community locations within the service area
- Basic computer skills
- Ability to meet physical demands of in-home and community work
- Willingness to complete required trainings(First Aid/CPR, medication administration, crisis intervention, etc.)
- Successful completion of background checks and health screenings
Schedule
- Full-time (40 hours/week)
- Monday–Friday between8:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Work occurs in homes and community settings (travel reimbursed)
Compensation & Benefits
- $20.00/hour
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Generous paid time off and holidays
- Retirement plan with employer contribution
- Paid travel time and mileage reimbursement
- Paid training and ongoing professional development
- Supportive supervision and a strong team culture
Salary : $20