Teaching Artist at AbilityPath in Palo Alto, CA

AbilityPath is Hiring for a Creative Arts Program Teaching Artist

Are you passionate about using art to empower others?

JOIN OUR TEAM to provide inclusive, engaging arts instruction and support adult artists with intellectual and developmental disabilities in building creative skills, confidence, and community connection.

This role is ideal for artists who enjoy mentorship, collaboration, and program-building and are excited to help shape a growing creative arts program.

Compensation:$24–$28/hour (based on education and experience)

Schedule: Full-time, Monday–Friday -Typical hours between 9:00am–5:00pm

Some flexibility may be considered based on program needs

Location: Palo Alto, CA ( in person role)

WHAT WE OFFER – Employee Benefits

At AbilityPath, we support career development, employee wellness, and recognition.

• 4 weeks of PTO
• 10 paid holidays
• Medical, dental, and vision benefits upon hire
• 401(k) plan with employer match
• Performance bonuses
• Educational reimbursement for ongoing professional development
• Mileage reimbursement

WHO WE ARE

AbilityPath is a nonprofit organization providing a lifespan of services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Our mission is to accept, respect, and include people of all abilities. We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and to building an inclusive community where everyone belongs.

ABOUT THE ROLE – What We Value

The Creative Arts Program Teaching Artist provides engaging, inclusive instruction in visual, digital, and/or performing arts to support creative expression, skill development, and community inclusion for adult artists with developmental disabilities .

Key responsibilities include:

• Arts Instruction: Lead developmentally appropriate group and individualized instruction in visual, digital, or performing arts based on artist interests, abilities, and goals
• Creative Development: Foster creativity, confidence, and artistic skill-building through person-centered and adaptive teaching approaches
• Accessibility & Inclusion: Utilize adaptive methods to ensure full participation for artists with diverse learning styles and support needs
• Community Engagement: Support artists during community art outings, exhibitions, performances, and volunteer opportunities
• Collaboration: Assist with collaborative art projects and maintain a safe, inclusive learning environment
• Documentation: Track and document artist goals, progress, and achievements in case management systems
• Professional Engagement: Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and agency-wide events
• Transportation: Drive agency vehicles as needed to support program activities

EDUCATION AND WORK EXPERIENCE

We encourage candidates to apply even if they do not meet every qualification listed below.

• Degree in an applicable field (arts, education, psychology, disability studies, or similar) preferred but not required
• Applicable work or volunteer experience in the arts, education, or community-based programs
• Experience working with adults with developmental disabilities preferred, but not required
• Experience teaching, mentoring, or leading small groups strongly valued

QUALIFICATIONS – What Helps You Succeed

• Experience in at least one artistic discipline (visual arts preferred to start; painting emphasized)
• Ability to provide engaging instruction to artists with varying developmental levels
• Strong communication skills and collaborative mindset
• Flexibility, creativity, empathy, and patience
• Comfort working in a dynamic, evolving program environment
• Basic computer skills (Outlook, Word; creative software a plus)

HIRING REQUIREMENTS

• Valid California Driver’s License/ID (3 years if driving)
• Clean driving record (minor infractions acceptable)
• Proof of negative TB test results
• Verification of physical clearance
• Pass a criminal fingerprint clearance
• 18 years of age or older (21+ for driving positions)

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Accommodations are available upon request.

• Ability to sit, stand, stoop, and bend frequently
• Ability to lift/support up to 40 lbs as needed
• Ability to walk for extended periods and support adults on community outings
• Ability to drive agency vehicles and transport participants
• Ability to sit and keyboard as needed

We encourage applicants to share access needs during the interview process and throughout employment. AbilityPath is committed to accessibility for all team members.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

AbilityPath is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are made based on merit and qualifications without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender identity or expression, ancestry, citizenship, disability, genetic information, marital or family status, sex, age, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law. Discrimination, harassment, or unprofessional conduct is not tolerated.

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