Instructional Assistant - Immediate Start

Secure Your Classroom Role Before Summer Break!
Zen Educate is looking for Para Educators. If you're passionate about supporting students with special needs and want a full-time role where you can make a real impact, this could be your next step. These roles support students with a range of special education needs, including mild, moderate, and severe needs.
Talk to a recruiter today and see how we can help you find the perfect role.

As a Teaching Assistant, you'll actively support lead teachers in delivering engaging lessons, working with students individually or in small groups to reinforce learning concepts and foster academic progress.

Responsibilities
- Behavioral Intervention: Implement individualized Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) for students with autism and emotional/behavioral needs. Use evidence-based strategies including positive reinforcement, de-escalation techniques, and proactive behavior supports to help students regulate emotions and develop coping skills.
- Targeted Support: Provide one-on-one or small group behavioral support, tailoring interventions to each student’s needs. Support students in building self-regulation, social-emotional skills, and classroom engagement.
- Classroom Collaboration: Work closely with teachers and behavior specialists to create a structured, supportive learning environment. Support classroom management by reinforcing expectations, modeling positive behavior, and helping students stay on task.
- Progress Monitoring: Track and document behavioral data consistently, including incidents, triggers, responses, and outcomes. Use this data to inform adjustments to BIPs and support team decision-making.
- Team Communication: Partner with special education staff, behavior analysts, and families to maintain a unified approach to student support. Share observations and collaborate on strategies to ensure consistency across environments.
- Personal Care: Support students with daily routines such as toileting, feeding, or mobility.

Required Qualifications/Experience:
- High School Diploma
- Experience supporting individuals with Special Educational Needs
- Experience providing personal care support
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to stay calm and patient in challenging situations
- US Work Authorization - Zen Educate cannot provide sponsorship for an employment visa or relocation assistance at this time.
- English proficiency
- Passion for supporting students
- CPR and First Aid (certification will be provided for otherwise qualified candidates)

Physical Requirements:
- Comfortable being on your feet and moving around the classroom throughout the day
- Able to lift up to 20 lbs and safely assist students when needed (kneeling, bending, quick response)
- Additional physical requirements may be requested during your application process

Preferred Qualifications/Experience
- Experience supporting children with autism, complex or severe emotional needs, or in roles such as ABA therapy
- Experience in special education, particularly with moderate to severe behaviors
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Knowledge of behavioral intervention strategies
- Additional training in behavioral techniques

Salary
Pay: $25 - $29 per hour, paid weekly.
Schedule: Monday to Friday, within hours of 7:30 am - 3:00/4:30 pm (no weekend work).

Benefits:
- Weekly pay
- Paid Sick Leave
- 401K (certain eligibility criteria)

Ready to get started? Connect with a recruiter today to explore open opportunities.

About Zen
Zen Educate is redefining how educators find their next role. Our platform streamlines the job search process, making it faster and easier for you to find opportunities that align with your skills, goals, and values - all with personalized support.

Why Zen
Working with Zen Educate means more than just finding a job, it’s about building a career. We help you find roles that fit your experience today while preparing you for even greater opportunities tomorrow.

Ref: SF_TA_ZA-Apr26