A Career Counselor works with adults of all ages to plan career choices and access the education and training needed to support a career. Gives skills assessment and aptitude tests to clients. Provides job search assistance or training for general workplace skills. Provides referrals for workplace literacy, academic or job training programs, or direct job referrals.
The STARability Foundation Supports people with disabilities by providing life-transforming opportunities that emphasize Teamwork and connection to the community to build Awareness and Respect for individual abilities. STARability serves individuals with intellectual and developmental challenges in Southwest Florida, providing lifelong support and opportunities. STARability offers a calendar of engaging activities featuring innovative, creative programs focused on continuing education, teamwork, and community involvement.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Studio Instructor delivers hands-on instruction and daily participant support within the STARability Studio social enterprise program. Working under the direction of the Senior Studio Manager, the role teaches vocational and creative skills, adapts instruction to individual learning needs, supports participant employees and interns, and represents the Studio at community events. The position exists to create meaningful work opportunities, build participant independence, and produce quality goods for sale, all in alignment with STARability's mission and inclusive employment model.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Uphold STARability's Core Values of Support, Teamwork, Awareness, and Respect. As directed by the Senior Studio Manager, lead or support participant Studio sessions, including Trailblazer Academy, Jr. Trailblazer Academy vocational training sessions, and STAR Entrepreneurship classes. Support additional creative programming such as art classes and photography workshops, in coordination with the Social Enterprise team. Comfortable supporting participants one-on-one and in groups of up to 12. Teach participants through vocational training and recreational offerings, encouraging creative expression, skill development, community inclusion, and meaningful work opportunities, while ensuring quality production of gifts for sale. Under guidance, adapt teaching methods, differentiate instruction, and assist in the development of lesson plans. Create individualized visual supports, such as task lists, and adapt materials. Utilize augmentative, alternative, and adaptive communication methods to support participants facing language or communication barriers. Actively supervise and engage participants across community, vocational, and program settings, using everyday moments as teaching opportunities. Assist with participant transportation as needed. Support participant employees and interns to foster an inclusive work environment. Assist or lead on-site and community-based events as requested to promote community engagement, raise awareness, and drive merchandise sales. Minimum of 10 events annually, including physical representation, product sales, setup and breakdown, inventory preparation, inventory transport, and participant support. Document participant progress, support strategies, and performance through case notes. Conduct assessments such as pre and post-program, functional skill assessments, personality, and interests. Provide incident reporting as needed. Maintain program records as requested, including RSVP systems and attendance. Support data collection, grant reporting, operational updates, and budget adherence as requested. Participate in feedback sessions and program evaluation processes to continuously enhance program quality and support services. Support Studio operations as needed, including inventory management, customer service, merchandise shipments, facility upkeep, and opening and closing procedures. Help uphold a safe, organized, equipped, welcoming, and innovative environment for participants and staff. Coordinate with other departments as needed to enhance program effectiveness. Foster positive, professional relationships with participants, families, caregivers, and community members. Stay current on all required trainings and certifications per STARability Foundation and supervisor guidelines. Additional duties as assigned, including attendance at and participation in STARability social events and fundraising gala.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Stand or sit for long periods periodically. May occasionally lift at least 50 pounds unassisted and, with training, perform emergency physical interaction techniques, including lifting, bending, kneeling, stooping, reaching, blocking, and grabbing with or without assistance.
REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
High school diploma or equivalent required. Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Special Education, Behavioral Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Psychology, Therapeutic Recreation, or a related field preferred; or two years of experience providing education, social, or direct care services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Nonprofit experience desirable. Experience in instruction, teaching, vocational training, or facilitating group learning is preferred. Demonstrates flexibility, patience, and the ability to manage diverse situations, including assisting participants by verbally prompting them with personal care tasks (e.g., changing clothing, using the restroom), addressing problem behavior such as inappropriate verbalizations, and handling instances of aggression. Ability to perform cleaning tasks (moving heavy furniture and appliances on rollers, pushing, pulling, lifting, bending, kneeling, stooping, reaching, and overhead reaching). Ability to communicate with a wide variety of individuals within the community. Observe, ask questions, listen actively, and give and accept feedback effectively. Excellent time management, organizational skills, and ability to prioritize workload. Proficiency in Word, Excel, and database systems. Valid state driver's license, motor vehicle proficiency, and ability to comply with legal driving requirements. Competency with virtual platforms like Zoom and a willingness to learn new technologies for educational instruction. The employment offer is contingent on background checks, an abuse registry check, a motor vehicle record check, and reference checks.
Pay:
$22.00 per hour
Benefits:
401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Parental leave Vision insurance
