Autism Services Department - Life Skills Coach I

Life Skills Coach I

Autism Services

The Life Skills Coach I position is a highly rewarding position for people who want to promote independence and empower individuals with Autism to enhance their quality of life. Coaches are responsible for planning and facilitating groups within the Life Skills CBDS Program. This includes finding unique and engaging community activities or skills training opportunities and helping build the monthly calendar, and then ensuring their group has the appropriate resources to operate smoothly (tickets, transportation, parking, etc.) During the group Coaches are expected to promote skill building, model appropriate social skills and community safety for individuals, monitor safety and wellbeing of all individuals, and successfully execute the learning objective of the group. 

Duties & Responsibilities

Provide contracted direct services to individuals in the Life Skills Community Based Day Services Program.

Help individuals set personal goals and build skills in the following areas (but not limited to):

Independent living skills (for example: planning/shopping for/cooking simple meals, doing their laundry, paying their bills, reading their mail)

Executive functioning skills (for example: planning, prioritizing, time management, organizational skills, task initiation, etc.)

Basic health management (for example: hygiene, nutrition, routine fitness, arranging & attending appointments)

Building social skills and healthy relationships

Community safety and travel-training

Self-advocacy and coping skills

Finding and accessing community resources and social/recreational activities

Soft skills and pre-employment training 

Thoroughly plan and prepare for all assigned groups such as purchasing tickets, arranging transportation, identifying parking, etc.

Clearly communicating with the Life Skills Program Coordinator about additional needs, changes, or concerns.

Complete required documentation for groups/sessions/meetings in a timely manner. 

Coordinate with the ASD Services Case Manager to ensure individuals are building skills related to their ISP goal(s). 

Participate in OQE and CARF accreditation reviews as well as any other external audits.

Build positive relationships with individuals, families, community connections, DDS personnel, etc.

Advocate on behalf of individuals to help them live the most independent and fulfilling life they can.

Required Skills & Abilities

Personal or professional knowledge about Autism Spectrum Disorder

Ability to be creative in determining how to motivate individuals to engage with services

Knowledge of local community resources, and/or willingness to find services and activities individuals may be interested in

Flexibility to work with a wide range of individuals, families, and other service providers

Patience and a good sense of humor!

Education and Experience

Previous experience in mentoring or coaching preferred 

Experience working directly with individuals with Autism preferred

Valid driver’s license required with acceptable driving record

Must be able to pass CORI and fingerprinting background checks

Associate or bachelor’s degree in human services/psychology/social work is a plus 

We welcome applicants with diverse backgrounds and life experience