The Arc of Ocean County·Lakewood, New Jersey
The Program Instructor leads structured educational and life-skills activities to help adults with disabilities achieve personal goals and independence. They also facilitate community outings and maintain accurate records to ensure participant safety and well-being.
Turn Everyday Activities Into Meaningful Opportunities The Arc of Ocean County is seeking an energetic and compassionate Program Instructor to join our Adult Day Program in Lakewood. This role is centered on creating purposeful daily experiences that help adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities strengthen life skills, explore interests, build relationships, and participate more fully in their communities. You'll have the opportunity to combine instruction, encouragement, and hands-on experiences to help individuals work toward their personal goals. Whether you're leading a structured activity, supporting a community outing, or helping someone master a new skill, your work can make each day an opportunity for growth and greater independence.
Location: Lakewood, New Jersey Employment Type: Full-Time Schedule: Monday–Friday | 8:00 AM–4:00 PM Starting Pay: $20.70 per hour Paid On-the-Job Training Provided What You'll Bring to the ProgramLead Meaningful Activities Plan and lead structured educational, recreational, vocational, and life-skills activities that encourage development and social interaction. Adjust activities and instructional approaches to reflect individual strengths, abilities, and learning styles. Motivate individuals to participate, develop confidence, and work toward personal accomplishments. Create an inclusive program environment where individuals feel respected, valued, and encouraged to participate. Take Learning Into the Community Organize and participate in recreational, educational, volunteer, and other community-based experiences. Help individuals strengthen social skills and develop meaningful connections within their communities. Safely transport participants in agency vehicles for outings, appointments, and scheduled activities. Encourage community inclusion by creating opportunities for individuals to experience and participate in their communities. Help Individuals Reach Their Goals Support individuals in pursuing objectives identified in their Individual Service Plans (ISPs). Work with interdisciplinary team members to provide individualized, person-centered supports. Reinforce healthy decision-making, independence, and daily living skills. Use positive behavioral support strategies that encourage dignity, participation, and success. Keep Services Safe & Consistent Maintain accurate and timely daily records, progress notes, attendance records, medication administration records, and incident reports. Follow agency requirements related to health, safety, confidentiality, and participant care. Observe participant well-being and promptly communicate concerns to supervisors. Contribute to a clean, organized, and safe program environment. A Role Where Your Effort Is Visible The work of a Program Instructor is about more than filling a daily schedule. You'll help individuals discover interests, practice new skills, make choices, and experience success. Your patience, creativity, and encouragement can turn an ordinary program day into an opportunity for someone to accomplish something meaningful. Build Your Skills With Us Paid On-the-Job Training Ongoing professional development opportunities Career advancement throughout Adult Day, Residential, and Vocational Services Supportive leadership and collaborative team environment Employee Referral Bonus Program Required: High School Diploma or GED. Valid New Jersey driver's license with no more than five (5) motor vehicle points. Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills. Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment. Flexibility to participate in community-based programming and transportation responsibilities. Ability to meet the physical requirements of the position, including assisting individuals with mobility and lifting when necessary. Experience supporting individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities preferred. The Arc of Ocean County offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your career and well-being: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance Low Deductible Health Plans with $0 Copay Options Comprehensive Prescription Coverage Flexible Spending Account (FSA) 401(k) Retirement Plan with Agency Matching Paid Time Off and Holiday Pay Tuition Reimbursement Opportunities Employee Referral Bonus Program Life Insurance Disability Insurance Bring Your Energy to a Purposeful Career If you're ready to use your creativity, patience, and enthusiasm to help others learn new skills and experience greater independence, The Arc of Ocean County is ready to welcome you to the Adult Day Program team.
Candidates must have a high school diploma or GED and a valid New Jersey driver's license with a clean driving record. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are required, with preference given to those with experience supporting individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
Market context
Classroom teacher roles in New Jersey are typically in steady demand, especially in core subjects like English. Competition can be strong because districts often look for candidates with the correct New Jersey certification, a bachelor’s degree, and classroom readiness; the posted benefits package includes medical, dental, vision, life, and short-term disability coverage. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform to save time, then tailor your application to show your certification status and relevant English instruction experience.
