Lead Life Skills Instructor in Naperville, Illinois at RAY GRAHAM ASSOCIATION FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

The Lead Life Skills Instructor is responsible for developing and delivering structured, skill-based curriculum that promotes personal growth, independence, and community integration for individuals served in our Monarch Services

This leadership role oversees Life Skills Instructors and provides direction to Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), ensuring high-quality program implementation, coordinated daily operations, and meaningful engagement opportunities—including vocational experiences and community-based learning.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Supervision

• Supervise Life Skills Instructors and provide guidance to Direct Support Professionals
• Participate in recruitment, interviewing, and hiring of staff
• Provide ongoing coaching, feedback, and performance evaluations
• Facilitate regular team meetings and staff training
• Address performance concerns in accordance with agency policies and applicable union agreements
• Serve as a professional role model, reinforcing RGA’s mission and values

Program Operations & Coordination

• Oversee daily operations of Monarch Services/Monarch Academy
• Develop and maintain structured daily schedules with meaningful activities
• Ensure timely opening/closing of the facility and compliance with safety standards
• Coordinate transportation routes and vehicle usage
• Conduct safety drills and monthly building inspections
• Monitor facility and vehicle maintenance needs
• Maintain petty cash in compliance with financial procedures

Curriculum Development & Instruction

• Design and implement skill-building curriculum aligned with Person-Centered Plans (PCPs)
• Facilitate daily classes and group activities promoting independence and personal growth
• Support individuals in accessing community-based opportunities including employment, education, and volunteerism
• Encourage participation and engagement in both center-based and community activities

Program Implementation

• Ensure people supported have diverse, meaningful daily options—minimizing unstructured time
• Collaborate with staff to implement engaging programming
• Develop weekly schedules of classes, outings, and skill-building opportunities
• Incorporate participant input into programming and activities
• Build and maintain community partnerships that enhance programming

Documentation & Compliance

• Track attendance, participation, and progress toward individual goals
• Collect and report data in alignment with PCPs and agency quality initiatives
• Complete incident and injury reports per policy
• Contribute to Person-Centered Plan development with detailed summaries

Mission Alignment

• Promote and uphold RGA’s mission, values, and policies in all interactions
• Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and respect in all communications
• Maintain confidentiality and ensure accurate, transparent reporting

Our Exceptional Benefits

· Health, dental, and vision insurance for full-time employees. Ray Graham Association provides 75% of health insurance costs.

· Paid Internships

· 403(b) retirement plan with a 3% dollar-for-dollar company match.

· Generous paid vacation, sick, personal, and holiday time off, totaling an average of 20 days a year.

Education & Certification

• High School Diploma (required) /Bachelor’s degree preferred
• Valid Driver’s License (required)
• Successful completion of background checks (CANTS, LEADS, State Police)
• Completion of all required training within established timeframes

Experience

• Previous experience in direct support services (required)
• Prior supervisory experience (preferred)

Skills & Abilities

• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Sound judgment and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to read, write, and interpret documentation effectively

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 75 pounds
• Ability to assist individuals with transfers
• Prolonged standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and reaching
• Ability to safely operate a vehicle and transport individuals

Additional Requirements

• Reliable transportation for work-related responsibilities
• Must be insurable under RGA’s vehicle insurance policy

Additional Employment Requirements

RGA is a drug-free workplace. All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of pre-employment drug screening, background checks, and other required screenings. Random drug testing may be conducted in accordance with agency policy.