Job Description

For over a decade, our award-winning nonprofit academy and working production studio has been

preparing young adults on the autism spectrum for careers in animation and the digital arts. Exceptional Minds develops a diverse and inclusive workforce of thoughtful and talented artists once on the margins, who now have what every young professional seeks - dignity, hope, and a command of the skills and tools necessary to lead successful careers.

Title: PEERS Instructor, Adjunct Faculty

FLSA Classification: Nonexempt

Job Type: Part Time

Pay: $18-$30/hr dependent on experience level

Department: Academy

Date: Fall 2025

JOB DESCRIPTION

Summary/Objective

Exceptional Minds is piloting the PEERS® for Young Adults program as part of their vocational

curriculum. PEERS is an evidence-based social skills training program designed to support young adults with social challenges in developing essential interpersonal and self-advocacy skills for college, work, and life. We are seeking a dedicated and engaging instructor to facilitate PEERS® for Young Adults (Lite)—a classroom-based social skills group that supports neurodiverse students in building essential communication and interpersonal skills for college, community, and workplace success. The course follows an evidence-based structure adapted from the UCLA PEERS® for Young Adults curriculum and is delivered in a supportive, neuro-affirming format. Class sessions are held once per week for approx 2.5 hours. An additional co-instructor or classroom assistant will be assigned to help maintain a low student-to-instructor ratio and support student engagement.

Essential Functions

• Facilitate weekly classroom sessions using the PEERS® Lite curriculum (materials and training support provided)
• Create a safe, respectful, and engaging learning environment for neurodiverse students
• Collaborate with the co-instructor and program staff to monitor participation and support generalization of skills
• Complete basic documentation (e.g., attendance, brief reflection logs)
• Participate in a short orientation/training session prior to course launch

Preferred Education and Experience

• Prior experience with the PEERS® curriculum (Young Adult, School-Based, or PEERS® for Careers) strongly preferred
• Background in psychology, education, social work, counseling, speech/language, or related fields
• Experience working with neurodiverse youth or adults, including those on the autism spectrum
• Group facilitation skills and ability to foster inclusive discussions
• Interest in evidence-based practice, SEL, or transition-to-adulthood programming
• Familiarity with the PEERS for YA curriculum is a plus

We are an equal-opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform critical job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request an accommodation

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