Instructional Support Specialist

Grand Canyon University! One of Arizona’s leading institutions of higher learning. Located in the Valley of the Sun in the heart of Phoenix, Arizona. GCU is an institutionally accredited, private, nondenominational Christian University.

Grand Canyon University is seeking an Instructional Support Specialist for the L.O.P.E.S. Academy at the Cardon Center in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS). L.O.P.E.S. stands for Learning Opportunities for Participation and Engagement in School. This position will support the day-to-day operation of the L.O.P.E.S. Academy and supporting programs and works directly with individuals with intellectual disabilities, program participant parents and guardians, instructors, and other college leadership. Activities and outcomes focus on creating a learning atmosphere in a collegiate community in which program objectives are mastered with a goal of gained new knowledge and skills for internship and satisfying employment. This is a 12-month, grant-funded position.

L.O.P.E.S. Academy Mission:
To provide an inclusive, immersive Christian university experience for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities focused on finding personal purpose through academic, social and job skills development.

This position offers opportunities to develop foundational skills, gain practical experience, and grow professionally. Located on Campus: 3300 W Camelback Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85017.

What you will do: 

• Supports the day-to-day program operation and LOPES Academy programs to include screening candidate applications, scheduling interviews, planning and implementing workforce-focused workshops, and assisting in classes when needed.
• Support the safety of program participants. 
• Track and document LOPES Academy participant progress. 
• Support and assist with organizing supplemental events and activities. 
• Develop and support external partnerships and community outreach. 
• Support the development of internship partnerships. 
• Actively engages with program participants and participant parents and guardians. 
• Other duties as assigned.

What you will need:

• Required: Bachelor’s degree in Special Education or related degree.
• Required: Minimum of three or more years’ experience working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in an academic setting.
• Experience working with IEPs. 
• Experience with vocational rehab, division of disability services.
• De-escalation experience related to populations with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• Experience interacting with the parents and guardians of individuals with intellectual disabilities on a regular basis.
• Must pass pre-employment background investigation.
• Provide a positive example to students by supporting the University’s Doctrinal Statement, Ethical Position Statement and Mission of Grand Canyon University.

Why work at GCU:

• Exceptional workplace benefits include medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, flexible spending accounts, a 401K savings plan
• Paid time off to volunteer in the community or at GCU-sponsored events
• Generous time off plan and 11.5 paid holidays –
• Free covered parking
• We also offer full-time employees, their spouses, and dependent children an Education Tuition Discount Program
• Free on-site gyms on campus

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