Art Lead Program Specialist - Day Program Services

Art Lead Program Specialist - Day Program Services

Start working to make a difference…

Life Opportunities Unlimited (LOU) is a premium boutique human service agency that has served adults with developmental disabilities since 1995. We offer both residential and day program services in Bergen County, New Jersey. Our unmatched community integrated services are driven by our committed team of professionals. 

Join the LOU Team

We are committed to supporting our employees in their professional growth and career development. This commitment allows our teams to thrive in a passion-driven community that is focused on enriching the lives of our clients. We are looking for dedicated individuals that want to be an important part of building a better future for individuals with developmental disabilities. 

You will be a successful team member if you are:

• Creative and adjust accordingly
• Well organized and detail oriented
• Patient, compassionate, and caring
• Able to collaborate and communicate effectively with a team 
• Dependable and flexible 
• Open-minded to accepting feedback and making changes 

Responsibilities:

• Manage engaging art lessons and reports to the Associate Director of Day Program Services.
• Conduct activities in a wide range of art mediums and techniques for all learning styles involving: Painting, Ceramics, Sculptures, Crafting, Drawing, Printmaking, Jewelry, Mosaics, Fiber Arts, Environmental Art, Collages, Watercolor, Acrylics, etc.
• Encourage creativity, growth, and self-expression within fine & visual art in curriculum development.
• Incorporate historical perspectives into lessons to deepen understanding of art concepts.
• Implement new skill development strategies for individual client growth.
• Stay updated in best practices in art education and promote appreciation for the value of art.
• Manage art supplies and equipment, including ordering materials and maintaining the art classroom.
• Advocate for participants self-expression and communication.
• Create a supportive and inclusive environment for art expression and learning.
• Facilitate a safe and nurturing environment for our clients that allows them to be their best selves.
• Treat all clients with staff, and stakeholders with dignity and respect.
• Maintain a positive and harmonious environment at all times.
• Ensure records are updated, write clear and concise progress notes, manage activity calendars, and ensure that the implementation of art activities meet standards of the agency.
• Attend all departmental staff meetings, company events, and organization-provided training sessions.
• Serve as an agency representative and a liaison between the agency and the community.
• Cooperate with team members from LOU and DDD and/or personnel from the Department of Human Services in any inspection and or investigation which may be conducted. 
• Perform miscellaneous tasks as necessary.
• Provide proper administration of medication in accordance with training and procedures.
• Provide safe and efficient transportation to clients to and from activities on an as needed basis.

Requirements

• High School diploma or equivalent
• BS/BA in art education preferred 
• Proficiency in communication, curriculum development, instruction, and creativity within the arts. 
• Must be 18 years or older 
• Must be able to lift, push, and pull as necessary
• Familiarity with Google Workspace (Gmail, Google Calendar, Google Drive, etc.) 
• Proven professional written and verbal communication skills 
• Teaching, listening, and presentation skills 
• Possess a valid New Jersey Driver’s License 
• Must be able to successfully complete all NJ Division of Developmental Disabilities mandated trainings within the first 120 days of  employment 
• Proven professional written and verbal communication skills
• Strong computer skills and problem-solving skills

Benefits

• Benefits Package (Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance)
• Life Insurance
• Competitive Salary
• 401(k)
• Paid Training & Renewing of Certifications
• PTO, Vacation, & Holiday pay
• Career Advancement Opportunities