Instructional Assistant

Limited Positions - Apply Now & Secure Your Classroom Role for the 2026-2027 School Year! Start the 2026–2027 school year strong. We're hiring now! 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. Don’t wait, connect with a recruiter today and see how we can help you find the perfect role. About Zen Educate Zen Educate is a technology-driven platform that connects schools with high-quality educators in a faster, more transparent way. We simplify the hiring process by matching educators to roles that align with their skills, preferences, and availability. By reducing friction for schools and increasing access to opportunities for educators, we’re building a more efficient and fair education staffing system. Our Instructional Assistants are fundamental to a smoothly running classroom, providing practical support that allows teachers to focus on instruction, while also offering encouragement and guidance to students throughout the school day. Key Responsibilities: Behavioral Support: Implement and follow Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) or Individualized Education Plan (IEPs) Individualized Support: Provide one-on-one or small group support using positive reinforcement and de-escalation strategies to promote self-regulation, social-emotional skills, and engagement. Classroom Assistance: Collaborate with teachers to maintain a positive, inclusive learning environment and encourage student participation. Communication: Work closely with teachers, parents, and staff to ensure consistent and effective support for students. Personal Care: Support with personal care or hygiene as needed, including toileting, feeding, and dressing. Note taking: Taking notes and recording data on students progres Required Qualifications: Demonstrated hands-on experience safely managing and de-escalating SEVERE behavioural challenges (including but not limited to self-injurious behaviour, elopement, physical aggression toward staff/peers) - ABA training or at least 10 months of behavior tech/interventionist experience or RBT certification Experience supporting individuals with Special Educational Needs Experience with elopement, nonverbal and/or aggressive behaviors Excellent communication and interpersonal skills Ability to stay calm and patient in challenging situations English proficiency U.S. work authorization (Zen Educate cannot provide sponsorship for an employment visa or relocation assistance at this time) Candidates must be 18 years or older to apply 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: 3 months of experience de-escalating SEVERE behaviours (including self-injurious behaviour, elopement & physical aggression towards staff/peers). Experience in Special Education, particularly with moderate to severe behaviours, ABA Therapy, Behaviour Technician Experience, or AAC Devices. Knowledge of behavioral intervention strategies. CPR and First Aid certification. ProAct Training. Salary Pay: $22 - $24.5 per hour Schedule: Monday to Friday, within hours of 7:30 am - 3:00/4:30 pm (no weekend work). Benefits and other offerings Weekly pay by direct deposit, with paper check available on request Professional development, including in-app training, paid role-specific certifications where applicable, and additional development opportunities depending on role and location Paid sick leave in accordance with applicable state and local law Medical, dental, and vision insurance available when eligibility requirements are met, which includes working more than 1,560 hours in a 12 month period. 401(k) retirement plan with no employer match available when eligibility requirements are met, which includes working more than 1,000 hours in a 12 month period or more than 500 hours/year in a 24 month period. Ready to get started? Connect with a recruiter today to feel the difference you can make. Ref: #SDTAZA-Oct26