Job Description
This isn’t just a job, it’s a calling! Our mission at Meristem is to prepare young adults on the autism spectrum to build a strong sense of self, develop an enhanced social capacity, and create a life of increased social and economic independence. We strive to create a world where the unique capabilities of adults on the spectrum are respected and appreciated. We facilitate the ability of adults with autism to have full and meaningful lives, with ample opportunities for mainstream employment and independent living.
We operate a small college-like campus in Fair Oaks that houses many of our students full-time. We are seeking an experienced Movement Instructor who is creative and dedicated to Meristems’ mission.
The
Movement Instructor will provide instruction that will foster strength, coordination, balance, and flexibility through physical activity (i.e., dance, yoga, drama, music, and gymnastics). The ideal candidate will have experience teaching in a group setting and a passion for connecting mental and physical health through the science of movement. A strong background in education, the arts, psychology, or special education is preferred.
Meristem is a great place to work and grow. We all work together, motivating those around us with our commitment to high standards. At Meristem, we have a terrific work culture and provide the opportunity to work in a beautiful setting with an amazing purpose.
Our compensation shows how much we value our team! Pay: $25.00 - $27.00 per hour, depending on experience
Benefits: Medical plus $3k HRA to help offset medical costs
Dental, Vision, and 410K
Daily Lunch and Snacks provided
Location: 9200 Fair Oaks Blvd. Fair Oaks, CA 95628
Schedule: Monday–Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Job Responsibilities: Instruction & Curriculum Development - Design and lead movement classes and workshops tailored to neurodiverse young adults, focusing on skill-building, creativity, and self-confidence (i.e., sports, dance, aerobics, and stretching)
- Teach basic exercise science, biomechanics, anatomy, and physiology
- Prepare curriculum and lesson plans with a developmental progression, ensuring accessibility for all students
- Integrate movement-based activities that improve balance, coordination, stamina, and spatial awareness
- Adapt classes to accommodate participants' needs and fitness levels, providing modifications and progressions as necessary
- Lead safe and effective warm-ups, exercises, and cool-downs to prevent injury and promote recovery
- Educate participants on proper form, alignment, and breathing techniques to maximize the benefits of each movement practice
- Create a supportive and inclusive environment that encourages participants to explore and improve their physical abilities
Student Support & Development - Provide individualized and group support, accommodating various learning styles and sensory needs
- Work one-on-one and in small groups
- Assess client abilities, align projects with their skills and goals, and track progress through written reports and data
- Create a supportive and inclusive environment that encourages participants to explore and improve their physical abilities
- Foster a positive, inclusive, and sensory-friendly studio environment
- Collaborate with therapists, educators, and families to ensure a comprehensive approach to student development
Professional Development & Team Collaboration - Attend daily and weekly staff meetings and staff check-ins
- Participate in staff training and integrate new strategies to address primitive reflexes and improve functional movement
- Engage with the founding principles of the Meristem program and contribute to maintaining its cultural norms
- Support the onboarding process of new clients and staff
- Engage in collaborative educational offerings and implement program-oriented approaches
- Serve as a substitute when staff members are absent
- Develop a professional growth plan with supervision and actively engage in research-based assessments
Qualifications: - Bachelor’s degree in Education, Arts, Special Education, Psychology, or equivalent education experience
- Minimum 2 years of teaching experience in physical fitness, wellness, and body awareness
- Certified or trained in movement disciplines such as: Gymnastics, Circus Arts, Theatre, Drama, Music, Yoga, Mindfulness/Somatic meditation – a plus
- Experience working with special needs and/or neurodiverse communities
- Current CA Driver’s License and updated auto insurance
- Ability to evaluate clients' skill levels and safely guide engagement
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Strong ability to self-reflect and implement new learning strategies
- Ability to multitask, prioritize, and maintain attention to classroom details
- Strong safety and classroom management skills
- Patience, creativity, and a passion for inclusive arts education
- Ability to engage with multiple perspectives in an unbiased manner
- Familiarity or willingness to learn Transformative Movement Education, Ruskin Mill Therapeutic craft education, or Waldorf education
Physical Demands :
- The ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds.
- The ability to move in uneven terrain on our campus as needed.
- The stamina to lead a class in different temperate climates (i.e., summer heat and winter chill
Pre-Employment Background and Drug Test Required
Job Tags
Hourly pay, Full time, Summer work, Work at office, Monday to Friday