Hammer Trip Leader

Position Summary

Trip Leader directs the daily operations of a planned trip for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and is responsible for overseeing the medical, financial, social, and emotional needs of the 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.

• Leadership and Supervision
• Provide supervisory oversight to all travel staff and volunteers on specific trips.
• Support travelers’ needs (financial, personal, medical, etc.) during the trip.
• Supervise & collaborate with 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 organizational reputation.
• Report/respond to any complaints or incidents promptly.
• 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.
• Support & Administration
• Participate in all pre/post trip duties, including pre‑trip meetings, pre‑trip phone calls, traveler trip check‑in/out, and any post‑trip follow up.
• Manage the schedule for travelers’ flights, activities, meals, medications, and ensure the trip operates within the assigned budget.
• Follow HIPAA 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.
• 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.

• 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 a driving record that meets Hammer & NER’s insurance requirements. Must receive an 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.