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Day Program Instructor Jobs in Philadelphia, PA (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a Program Instructor Specializing in Communication Disorders and/or Speech and ... Facilitate Adult Day Program activities, including: * Vocational training * Independent living ...

We are seeking a Program Instructor Specializing in Communication Disorders and/or Speech and ... Facilitate Adult Day Program activities, including: * Vocational training * Independent living ...

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Day Program Instructor information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$5

$21

$42

How much do day program instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for day program instructor in Philadelphia, PA is $21.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.45 and $26.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Day Program Instructors?

Day Program Instructors are professionals who work with individuals, often those with developmental disabilities or special needs, in structured daytime programs. They plan and facilitate activities that promote skill development, socialization, and independence. Their responsibilities may include teaching daily living skills, supporting community integration, and ensuring participants' safety and well-being. Day Program Instructors also collaborate with other staff and families to create individualized plans and track progress.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Day Program Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Day Program Instructor, you need experience in education or human services, knowledge of developmental disabilities, and usually a high school diploma or higher. Familiarity with individualized service plans (ISPs), documentation software, and basic assistive technology is often required. Patience, creativity, and strong interpersonal skills help instructors effectively engage participants and build positive relationships. These abilities ensure safe, supportive, and enriching environments that promote participant growth and well-being.

What are some common challenges faced by Day Program Instructors, and how can they be managed?

Day Program Instructors often work with individuals who have varying needs and abilities, which can present challenges in adapting activities and communication styles. Managing group dynamics, ensuring participant engagement, and handling unexpected behavioral issues are typical aspects of the role. Successful instructors rely on patience, strong interpersonal skills, and collaboration with colleagues and support staff to create a positive and inclusive environment. Ongoing training and support from the organization can also help instructors effectively address these challenges and foster participant growth.
What cities near Philadelphia, PA are hiring for Day Program Instructor jobs? Cities near Philadelphia, PA with the most Day Program Instructor job openings:
Program Instructor

Program Instructor

Merakey

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago


Merakey rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

109th of 236 rated social care providers


Job description

Are you looking for an opportunity to advance your career while working with an extraordinary team? At Merakey, we put heart and soul into everything we do. We are seeking a Program Instructor Specializing in Communication Disorders and/or Speech and Language to join our team at our program in Philadelphia, PA.
Earn: $21.00 w/ degree $19.00 w/o degree + Benefits
Schedule: 7a-330p Monday-Friday
The Program Instructor provides engaging, supportive, and structured activities for adults with developmental disabilities. This role plays a vital part in helping individuals develop skills that promote independence, confidence, and quality of life.
  • Facilitate Adult Day Program activities, including:
    • Vocational training
    • Independent living skills
    • Cognitive and social development
    • Leisure and recreational activities
    • Mobility, sensory, and perceptual motor skills
  • Support individuals in developing computer and basic technology skills
  • Encourage participation while adapting activities to meet individual needs
  • Maintain a positive, flexible, and person-centered approach
  • Collaborate with team members to support individualized goals

Benefits
Merakey offers generous benefits that promote well-being, financial security, and work-life balance, including:
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus access to healthcare advocacy support.
  • Retirement plan -- both pre-tax and Roth (after-tax) options available for employee contributions.
  • DailyPay -- access your pay when you need it!
  • On the Goga well-being platform, featuring self-care tools and resources.
  • Access Care.com for backup childcare, elder care, and household services.
  • Confidential counseling, legal, and financial services through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
  • Tuition reimbursement and educational partnerships.
  • Employee discounts and savings programs on entertainment, travel, and lifestyle.
  • Access to Pryor Online Learning for free online personal development classes.

Learn more about our full benefits package - https://www.merakey.org/careers/benefits
About Merakey
Merakey is a non-profit provider of developmental, behavioral health, and education services. More than 8,000 employees provide support to nearly 40,000 individuals and families throughout 12 states across the country each year. Click here to watch a video about Merakey. Merakey strictly follows a zero-tolerance policy for abuse.
Merakey is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer! We deeply value diversity and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, ethnic background, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, genetic information, or disability status. Moreover, we are committed to creating teams that reflect the diversity of the communities we serve and encourage applicants from underrepresented backgrounds to apply. Merakey welcomes all Veterans to apply!
The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications:
  • Bachelor's or Associates degree preferred. Candidates with High School Diploma and IDD experience will be considered.
  • Position requires a high degree of flexibility, creativity, leadership, and organizational skills.
  • Candidate ideally possesses a background in speech and hearing
  • Valid and Current Driver's License.

What Merakey employees say

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About Merakey

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Merakey is a leading developmental, behavioral health, and education non-profit provider with a fifty-year history. We offer a breadth of integrated services to individuals and communities across the country. Our belief that every individual has the right to achieve growth, dignity, and fulfillment guides all of our decisions. At Merakey, we care about each other and are committed to providing the very best care to those we serve. Merakey strictly follows a zero-tolerance policy for abuse.

Industry

Non-profits

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Lafayette Hill, PA, US

Year founded

1960