Ernie Els #GameON Autism Golf Coach at ELS FOR AUTISM FOUNDATION – Jupiter, Florida

This is a contracted position for 7-10 hours per week, typically two afternoons per week.

This position requires the successful candidate(s) to complete and maintain the training necessary to become an Official Program Provider (OPP) of the Ernie Els #GameON Autism Golf program. This position collaborates with Els for Autism Recreation Team members to plan, adapt, implement, and evaluate golf programming for children and adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities. The coach delivers instruction designed to build golf skills, fitness and social communication abilities in alignment with the evidence based Ernie Els #GameON Autism Golf curriculum. All classes are conducted at the Els campus in Jupiter FL.

Curriculum:

• Implement engaging, meaningful activities using the Ernie Els #GameON Autism Golf curriculum, applying evidence-based teaching practices for autism.
• Utilize hands on materials and visual supports from the Ernie Els #GameON Autism Golf curriculum to enhance participant learning.

Instruction:

• Establish and maintain safe learning environments, following all safety, incident-reporting and emergency procedures
• Create participant groupings and natural support systems (volunteers, pairs, one-on-one) based on individual needs
• Deliver explicit, systematic instruction using layering strategies (previewing, task analysis, skill building and review)
• Apply principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) within instructional and behavior-support practices
• Collaborate with the Recreation Services Manager and Coordinator to develop and implement individualized visual, behavioral, and communication supports, including those specific to the #GameON Autism Golf Program
• Maintain active engagement of all participants throughout the session
• Supervise volunteers and or interns supporting program delivery

Planning and Assessment:

• Adhere to HIPAA standards when collecting, storing and sharing electronic personal health information.
• Implement assessments and data collection for assigned program outcomes as directed by the Recreation Manager/Coordinator.
• Submit recommendations for supplies to support the program to the Recreation Manager/Coordinator.

• Bachelor's degree in Therapeutic Recreation, Special Education, Sports Science of a related field
• Minimum of 2 years of experience teaching or coaching individuals with autism or related developmental disabilities
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) and CPR certification
• Ability to successfully complete a Level 2 Background Clearance

Preferred:

• PGA or LPGA teaching certification
• Experience in Sports instruction program development for individuals with autism and related developmental disabilities
• Knowledge and experience using ABA strategies
• Bilingual proficiency

Additional Requirements:

• Experience in Research related to recreation programming and autism a plus
• Ability to work nights and weekends for occasional special recreation based activities as needed

Professional Development & Professionalism:

• Wear professional, activity-appropriate golf instruction attire.
• Remain actively engaged with participants, model appropriate behaviors, and collaborate effectively with community partners.
• Maintain consistent attendance in accordance with communicated expectations.
• Demonstrate integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to representing Els for Autism, its mission and the vision of the Els Family.

Work Environment:

• Required to sit, kneel, stand, or bend in support of clients' needs
• Must be able to assume and maintain a variety of postures for extended periods
• Must be able to lift and carry clients up to 50 pounds
• Work is normally performed on campus in primarily outdoor environments with limited shading
• Indoor environments may be available dependent on weather conditions

Els for Autism is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Els for Autism is committed to fostering a safe and inclusive workplace, where diversity is valued and all individuals, regardless of background, identity, or ability, are respected and provided equal opportunities for success. To learn more, please visit elsforautism.org.