Skills Instructor - Traditional
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At a glance
Requirements
Credentials this posting asks for.
Job overview
Advocates is hiring a Skills Instructor - Traditional. As a skills instructor in day habilitation programs, the role makes a meaningful impact each day helping adults with developmental disabilities and brain injuries build independence, confidence, and stronger community connections while supporting personal goals, life‑skill development, interests, and participation in enriching recreational, therapeutic, and community‑based activities.
Key focus areas include Support individuals in achieving personal goals by implementing individualized Day Habilitation Service Plans, Provide hands‑on developmental skills training through structured activities, recreation, and therapeutic supports, and Foster a positive, inclusive learning environment through encouragement, guidance, and role modeling.
Successful candidates bring High School Diploma/GED, One Year Experience In Training Program For Individuals With Developmental Disabilities, and Valid Drivers’ License. Important skills include Developmental Skills Training, Self-Care Training, Self-Preservation Training, Receptive Communication Training, Expressive Communication Training, and Self-Direction Training. Preferred (not required): Verbal Communications, Collaboration, and Culturally Diverse Population Service.
Skills & qualifications
Skills
Qualifications
Full job description
Overview
Starting Rate: $18.50/hour
Schedule: Monday through Friday
As a skills instructor in our day habilitation programs, you’ll make a meaningful impact every day helping adults with developmental disabilities and brain injuries build independence, confidence, and stronger connections within their communities. You’ll support individuals in reaching personal goals, developing life skills, exploring interests, and participating in enriching recreational, therapeutic, and community-based activities.
This is a dynamic, hands-on role for someone who brings energy, creativity, and compassion to their work and thrives on building positive relationships and encouraging growth.
Who We Are
At Advocates, we provide comprehensive services for people facing developmental, mental health, or other life challenges.
We’re a nonprofit, mission-driven organization with a person-centered approach, empowering the individuals we support to make choices, build independence, and live full, meaningful lives. Our work is rooted in respect, compassion, and inclusion, and we envision a world where individual differences are appreciated and celebrated.
At Advocates, we value the ideas, experiences, and contributions of employees and are committed to fostering a supportive, welcoming culture where everyone can grow and thrive.
Minimum Education Required
High School Diploma/GED
Shift
First Shift
Responsibilities
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Support individuals in achieving their personal goals by implementing individualized Day Habilitation Service Plans
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Provide hands-on developmental skills training through structured activities, recreation, and therapeutic supports
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Foster a positive, inclusive learning environment through encouragement, guidance, and role modeling
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Collaborate with team members and individuals to develop meaningful, creative goals and activities
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Assist with planning and leading daily schedules, routines, and group programming
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Facilitate community integration through outings and local activities
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Promote self-advocacy, empowerment, and independence
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Provide personal care and support with activities of daily living (ADLs) as needed
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Complete daily documentation in accordance with agency standards
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Participate in team meetings, supervision, and ongoing trainings
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Ensure all individuals are treated with dignity and respect in alignment with Advocates’ Human Rights Policy
Qualifications
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High school diploma or GED required
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Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, and willingness to transport individuals
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At least one year of experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities or in a related training program preferred
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A genuine passion for supporting others and building meaningful relationships
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Strong communication and teamwork skills
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Ability to work independently and take initiative in a dynamic environment
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Commitment to person-centered care and supporting diverse communities
Physical Demands:
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Full upper extremity range of motion
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Full lower extremity range of motion
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Must be able to lift furniture and/or objects/persons weighing over 50 lbs.
Physical Activity:
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Continuous: Communication
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Frequent: Standing, sitting, walking, and lifting
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Occasional: Reaching with hands and arms, stooping and crouching
Advocates is committed to cultivating a diverse and welcoming community where everyone feels respected and valued. Advocates fosters a culture of inclusion that celebrates and promotes diversity along multiple dimensions, including race, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, partnered status, age, national origin, socioeconomic status, religion, ability, culture, and experience.
We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application, interview or hiring process, please contact Human Resources.
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Job Locations US-MA-Ashland
Minimum Education Required High School Diploma/GED
Job ID 2026-13262
Organization Advocates
Type Regular Full-Time
Number of Hours Per Week 40
Business Unit Developmental Services
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