Part-Time Assistant Program Instructor

The Pennsylvania State University•University Park, FL

About The Position

The Graduate Student Assistant Instructor supports the design and delivery of curriculum for incoming first-year students on the autism spectrum through the Embark Penn State summer program (June 7–12, 2026). The Graduate Student Assistant Instructor represents an integral part of Embark Penn State, contributing to the program’s educational vision and serving as an assistant Instructor during the program week. The Graduate Student Assistant Instructor will work closely with College of Education faculty to develop and refine program curriculum prior to Embark, then lead and facilitate sessions during the program week. They will partner with the Peer Coach Supervisor and peer coaches to coordinate session delivery and ensure a cohesive, well-supported experience for all participants. The Graduate Student Assistant Instructor will help create a supportive, flexible, and engaging learning environment that recognizes individual differences in communication, learning, and social engagement. This role provides an opportunity to develop instructional design, facilitation, and leadership skills within an applied higher education context. This is an excellent opportunity for graduate students with interests in special education, student success, educational program development, counseling, or related fields.

Requirements

Applicants must be current graduate students at Penn State (preference for students in the College of Education)
Applicants must demonstrate an interest in curriculum development, instructional facilitation, and supporting students on the autism spectrum in higher education
The Graduate Student Assistant Instructor must be dependable, responsible, and able to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team
The Graduate Student Assistant Instructor must be able to commit to curriculum development work prior to the program and to the full program schedule (June 7–12, 2026)

Responsibilities

Contributing to curriculum development prior to the program
Supporting program delivery throughout the program week (June 7–12, 2026)
Collaborating with College of Education faculty and staff to develop, refine, and organize curriculum and session materials in advance of the program week
Serving as a facilitator during the program week, delivering sessions across Embark’s core content areas: navigating Penn State, building community, preparing for college academics, and strengthening self-advocacy
Partnering with the Peer Coach Supervisor and peer coaches to coordinate session logistics, support student engagement, and ensure consistency across the program experience
Engaging with students using approaches grounded in evidence-based practices for supporting students on the autism spectrum, including executive-function scaffolding, structured reflection, and strengths-based facilitation
Assisting with small group discussions and campus exploration activities as part of the broader program schedule
Helping create an inclusive and supportive learning environment that recognizes sensory needs and varying preferences for communication, participation, and social engagement
Working collaboratively with program staff and participate in team meetings and daily coordination during the program week
Completing all required paid training prior to the program