Life Skills Instructor

Life Skills Instructor (Adult Services)

Full-Time | Monday–Friday, 8 AM–4 PM | Hershey, PA
Make a difference in someone’s everyday life.

About the Role

As a Life Skills Instructor, you will help adults with autism and other intellectual/developmental disabilities build confidence, connect with their community, and develop the everyday skills that support independence. You don’t need previous experience—what matters most is your compassion, patience, and desire to help others live meaningful lives.

You’ll work both in our Community Integration Center (CIC) and out in the community—exploring parks, stores, volunteer sites, recreational activities, and real-world environments where adults can learn, practice skills, and pursue their interests.

If you value dignity, inclusion, and person-centered support, this is a role where you will make a lasting impact.

What You’ll Do

You’ll be a mentor and guide, helping individuals:

• Learn and practice everyday life skills
• Explore the community and try new experiences
• Build confidence through positive encouragement
• Strengthen communication and social connections
• Participate in meaningful activities they enjoy
• Develop routines that promote independence
• Build healthy relationships with peers and community members
• Feel supported, respected, and valued

You’ll also help with daily tasks such as cooking, cleaning, laundry, and personal care when needed—all with dignity and respect.

(Note: This section replaces the original heavily technical tasks list with mission-driven descriptions.)

Why You’ll Love Working at Vista

• Monday–Friday daytime schedule—no evenings or weekends
• A team culture built on compassion, respect, and person-centered values
• Work that creates real, visible change in the lives of adults
• Supportive training—no prior experience required
• Opportunities to grow within our Adult Services programs
• Comprehensive benefits and a competitive total compensation package
• Mileage reimbursement for community outings
• A welcoming environment where your positive attitude truly matters

What Makes You a Great Fit

You don’t need experience in autism services—all training is provided. You’re a strong candidate if you are:

• Patient, kind, and calm under pressure
• Someone who believes people deserve dignity, choice, and independence
• Comfortable helping others learn and try new things
• Compassionate, dependable, and committed to doing what’s right
• A good communicator and team player
• Flexible, creative, and upbeat when plans change

If you already have experience supporting individuals with disabilities, that’s a plus—but it’s not required.

Minimum Requirements

(Required by regulation but written in accessible, candidate-friendly language.)

• High school diploma or GED
• Valid PA driver’s license and reliable transportation
• Ability to complete required training (first aid/CPR, medication administration, crisis intervention, etc.)
• Ability to meet physical demands of assisting individuals in community and program settings
• Basic computer skills for documentation
• Must pass background checks and required health clearances

Schedule

• Full-time, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM, Monday through Friday
• No evenings, weekends, or on-call
• Community-based work with travel reimbursed

Compensation & Benefits

• $20/hour
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Generous paid time off + paid holidays
• Retirement plan with employer contribution
• Paid training and ongoing development
• Mileage reimbursement
• Supportive supervisors and team culture
• A mission that makes every day meaningful