Position Summary

The Trip Leader directs the daily operations on a planned trip for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and is responsible for overseeing the medical, financial, social, and emotional needs of individuals served’. All employees are expected to model and champion Hammer & NER’s core values: Person-Centered, Relational, Opportunistic and Stewardship to provide people with intellectual and other disabilities the opportunity to live life to its fullest.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

1. Leadership and Supervision

• Provide supervisory oversight with all travel staff and volunteers on specific trips,
• Support traveler’s needs (financial, personal, medical, etc.) during the trip.
• Supervise & collaborate with the volunteers and travel staff on itinerary, overview of trip, and budget.
• Meet regularly on trips to solve problems, balance cash on hand, plan activities, etc.
• Demonstrate teamwork, cooperation and effective working relationships with travelers, their contacts (families, program staff, etc.) to facilitate quality services and a positive organization reputation.
• Report/respond to any complaints or incidents promptly.
• As needed, assist with all areas of the traveler’s basic needs including, but not limited to personal care, medication administration, use of finances and support in the community while on the designated trip.
• Lead and provide services and activities that comply with Hammer & NER’s policies and person-centered philosophy, which includes advocacy to protect people’s civil and legal rights and promoting choice and independence whenever possible to foster a positive environment.

2. Support & Administration

• Participate in all pre/post trip duties including but not limited to; pre-trip meetings; pre-trip phone calls; traveler trip check-in/out, and any post-trip follow up
• Manage the schedule for traveler’s’ flights, activities, meals, medications; and ensure the trip operates within the assigned budget.
• Follow HIPPA regulations.
• Safely drive a vehicle for the duration of the trip..
• Follow the laws as a mandated reporter to protect vulnerable adults from abuse, neglect, and exploitation

3. Behavior Management

• Manage and lead staff to handle difficult situations effectively. Resolve minor issues when possible and contact appropriate people when necessary. Report all accidents, injuries and illnesses and follow procedures for any behavioral or medical emergencies.

Essential Knowledge and Qualifications

• Strong commitment to the organization’s mission.
• Trip leaders must have either worked at Hammer & NER, for at least 6 months or have 1-year experience working with individuals with IDD.
• Have current CPR certification (training is offered).
• Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills.
• Self-starter with the ability to work independently and collaborate effectively.
• Strong attention to detail, effective time manager, and excellent organization skills.
• Be a problem solver and able to adapt to different situations.
• Requires a valid driver’s license, access to a personal auto and driving record that meets Hammer & Ner’s insurance requirements. Must receive a MN DHS Background study clearance and show freedom from Tuberculosis.
• Experience, ability, and commitment to working with individuals and teams that are mixed across lines of difference such as race, gender-identity, sexual orientation, religion, ability, age, class, and immigrant status.
• Must be able to work the duration of the assigned trip.
• Experience and ability in performing physical work including:
• lifting up to 50 pounds (such as lifting a wheelchair into a van), pushing or pulling an individual in a wheelchair or while assisting with cares.
• Physical cares may include twisting/turning, kneeling/squatting, reaching, and assisting with pivot transfers.