Lead Life Skills Instructor

Ray Graham Association Current Openings • Naperville, IL

2d • Onsite

About The Position

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.

Requirements

• High School Diploma (required)
• Valid Driver’s License (required)
• Successful completion of background checks (CANTS, LEADS, State Police)
• Completion of all required training within established timeframes
• Previous experience in direct support services (required)
• 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
• Reliable transportation for work-related responsibilities
• Must be insurable under RGA’s vehicle insurance policy
• Offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of pre-employment drug screening, background checks, and other required screenings.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree preferred
• Prior supervisory experience (preferred)

Responsibilities

• 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
• 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
• 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
• 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
• 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
• 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

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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED