Job Purpose

The Ernie Els #GameON Autism Golf Coach completes and maintains the training necessary to become an Official Program Provider (OPP) of the Ernie Els #GameON Autism Golf program and collaborates with Els for Autism Recreation Team members to plan, adapt, implement, and evaluate golf programming for children and adults with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities. The coach delivers instruction designed to build golf skills, fitness and social communication abilities in alignment with the evidence-based Ernie Els #GameON Autism Golf curriculum. All classes are conducted at the Els campus in Jupiter FL. 

Key Responsibilities

Curriculum:

• Implement engaging, meaningful activities using the Ernie Els #GameON Autism Golf curriculum, applying evidence-based teaching practices for autism.
• Utilize hands on materials and visual supports from the Ernie Els #GameON Autism Golf curriculum to enhance participant learning. 

Instruction:

• Establish and maintain safe learning environments, following all safety, incident-reporting and emergency procedures
• Create participant groupings and natural support systems (volunteers, pairs, one-on-one) based on individual needs
• Deliver explicit, systematic instruction using layering strategies (previewing, task analysis, skill building and review)
• Apply principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) within instructional and behavior-support practices
• Collaborate with the Recreation Services Manager and Coordinator to develop and implement individualized visual, behavioral, and communication supports, including those specific to the #GameON Autism Golf Program
• Maintain active engagement of all participants throughout the session
• Supervise volunteers and or interns supporting program delivery

Planning and Assessment:

• Adhere to HIPAA standards when collecting, storing and sharing electronic personal health information. 
• Implement assessments and data collection for assigned program outcomes as directed by the Recreation Manager/Coordinator.
• Submit recommendations for supplies to support the program to the Recreation Manager/Coordinator.

Professional Development & Professionalism:

• Wear professional, activity-appropriate golf instruction attire.
• Remain actively engaged with participants, model appropriate behaviors, and collaborate effectively with community partners.
• Maintain consistent attendance in accordance with communicated expectations.
• Demonstrate integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to representing Els for Autism, its mission and the vision of the Els Family. 

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation, Special Education, Sports Science of a related field 
• Minimum of 2 years of experience teaching or coaching individuals with autism or related developmental disabilities

Preferred:

• PGA or LPGA teaching certification
• Experience in Sports instruction program development for individuals with autism and related developmental disabilities
• Knowledge and experience using ABA strategies 
• Bilingual proficiency

Additional Requirements:

• Experience in Research related to recreation programming and autism
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) and CPR certification
• Level 2 Background Clearance
• Must be able to work nights and weekends for occasional special recreation-based activities

Work Environment:

• Required to sit, kneel, stand, or bend in support of clients’ needs
• Must be able to assume and maintain a variety of postures for extended periods
• Must be able to lift and carry clients up to 50 pounds
• Work is normally performed on campus in primarily outdoor environments with limited shading
• Indoor environments may be available dependent on weather conditions

Els for Autism is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Els for Autism is committed to fostering a safe and inclusive workplace, where diversity is valued and all individuals, regardless of background, identity, or ability, are respected and provided equal opportunities for success. To learn more, please visit elsforautism.org.

Job Purpose:

The recreation assistant will be responsible for executing activity programs, supervising and assisting participants, and ensuring that the facilities and equipment are clean and safe for use.

Our Recreation Program Assistants (RPA) work with highly experienced staff in a team atmosphere to facilitate recreation programs and support participants. RCA’s will follow evidence-based practices for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (“ASD”) and intellectual disabilities to assist participants and support staff in carrying out the goals of the program.

Responsibilities:

• Assist with supervision and coaching of program participants
• Assist participants during activities using verbal instruction, demonstration, modeling, and hand over hand assistance
• Assist participants with activities of daily living including meals, snacks, and personal care
• Actively participate in all indoor and outdoor recreation, sports, and fitness activities
• Maintain knowledge of program participants medical, physical, communication and behavioral needs
• Assist with drop off and pick up of program participants
• Follow organizational and program safety procedures; report all safety concerns to the program supervisor
• Provide supervisor with feedback about activities
• Assist with the setup/tear down/clean-up of physical spaces including, classrooms, activity rooms, storage room, conference room, pavilion, golf course, tennis court, courtyard, and sensory garden.

Qualifications:

• HS diploma or GED
• 1 year of experience in a paid position working with children, youth and/or adults with autism or developmental disabilities.
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) and CPR certification or ability to obtain

Work Hours:

The Rec program runs Monday-Friday 1-5 PM (20 hours per week) except for a one-week spring break and a one-month summer camp. During these times, the successful applicant can expect to work 36-40 hours per week. In addition, occasional special event days or professional development days will require more scheduling of more than 4 hours per day. 

Work Environment:

Activities take place indoors and outside at the Els Center of Excellence 

Successful candidates need to be able to participate in a variety of physical activities including but not limited to fitness, walking, swimming, golf, tennis, kickball and soccer. Position supports programs that take place at The Els Center of Excellence and in community-based settings.

Els for Autism is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering a safe and inclusive workplace, where diversity is valued and all individuals, regardless of background, identity or ability, are respected and provided equal opportunities for success. To learn more, visit www.elsforautism.org

Job Purpose

The Aquatics Coordinator is an essential member of the transdisciplinary team responsible for supporting the growth and daily operations of aquatic complex programming, working in collaboration with lifeguards and other staff to ensure a safe, welcoming and high-quality experience for all participants and their families. 

Key Responsibilities

Ernie Els #Game On Autism Aquatics Program Coordination and Development:

• Promote, oversee, enhance and implement the Ernie Els #GameOn Aquatics trademarked program and as needed, serve as a lifeguard
• Assist in recruiting, onboarding, training, and supervising Aquatics Program Staff 
• Create safe and supportive environments for all participants, addressing safety concerns promptly and following applicable policies and procedures
• Use clear, structured instruction based on evidence-based practices, including applied behavior analytic principles, positive behavior supports as well as visual supports and other accommodations
• Facilitates and oversees all aquatic swim and water safety programming such as adult day activities, spring and summer camp programming and other pool-based programs
• Provide individualized assistance as needed following support plans to ensure a positive experience 
• Monitor and analyze program data to support continuous improvement; document outcomes and recommend enhancements to improve effectiveness

General Aquatic and Facility Coordination: 

• Enforce pool rules and safety procedures in accordance with approved policies
• Collaborate in the planning and evaluation of recreation programs, classes, events and facility rentals
• Work collaboratively to maintain accurate records of pool chemical levels and facility upkeep
• Coordinate memberships and community access to aquatic complex ensuring both smooth scheduling (of participants and staff) and a streamlined billing process 
• Support revenue generating opportunities and build partnerships with external stakeholders, identifying opportunities for new programs and innovative approaches to increase engagement
• Assist with marketing strategies to promote programs through social media, newsletters, events and the like
• Represent Els for Autism at community events, conferences, and professional engagements related to aquatics and autism friendly recreation 

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Education, Sport Science, Parks and Recreation or a related management field
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience developing, overseeing, and implementing aquatics/recreation programs for individuals with autism or developmental differences
• State of Florida Marino Adaptive Aquatics Certification
• Minimum 2 years’ experience teaching or coaching individuals with autism or other developmental differences
• Minimum of 1 year of aquatic supervisor or managerial experience

Preferred:

• Active Florida Lifeguard Certification
• Knowledge of applied behavior analytic strategies
• Experience in research related to recreation programming and autism
• Bilingual proficiency
• CPR/Basic Life Support Training
• Professional Crisis Management Certification 

Work Environment:

• Must be able to work nights and weekends as needed for special recreation-based events
• Must be able to lift and carry clients up to 50 pounds
• Must be able to assume and maintain a variety of postures (sit, kneel, stand, bend) for extended periods in support of clients’ needs
• Responsible for transporting clients as needed using a company van as work is performed on campus and in community-based locations

Els for Autism is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Els for Autism is committed to fostering a safe and inclusive workplace, where diversity is valued and all individuals, regardless of background, identity, or ability, are respected and provided equal opportunities for success. To learn more, please visit elsforautism.org.