Instructional Assistant

Secure Your Role for the 2026–2027 Academic Year! We are actively recruiting right now for the upcoming school year starting in August 2026! Joining our team early is a great way to complete your onboarding, showcase your skills, and secure your position before the fall rush. We are looking for paraprofessionals and classroom aides to support special education students. Now’s your chance to get set up for success and be ready to create strong bonds and make a lasting impact the moment doors open this August. 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. This Teaching Assistant role provides a dynamic opportunity to contribute to the instructional environment, assisting with lesson preparation, classroom management, and providing tailored support to meet diverse student needs. Key Responsibilities Assist licensed staff in the classroom by helping implement academic adaptations and individualized education plans (IEPs). Work with students individually or in small groups to support their self-care and social/behavioral needs. Maintain a classroom environment that is safe and conducive to learning. Provide timely support for students in crisis situations. Utilize a variety of learning methods to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. Required Qualifications ~ Hold an Associate Degree or higher from a US-accredited college or university OR hold a high school diploma plus a passed ParaPro Assessment, with a qualifying score of at least 456. ~6+ months experience supporting people with special needs (in any capacity), ideally child-focused experience ~ Applicants must have professional proficiency in English ~ US Work Authorization - Zen Educate cannot provide sponsorship for an employment visa or relocation assistance at this time 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 Valid Educational Aide Permit Experience working in special education, particularly with moderate to severe behaviors Experience with personal care tasks, like diapering and toileting Experience handling unexpected behaviour, such as hitting and biting Comfortable with eloping Experience with behaviour strategies and methodologies Experience in collecting data and following BI plan Certification in CPR and First Aid Salary Pay: $16 - $19 per hour, paid weekly. Schedule: Monday to Friday, within hours of 7:30 am - 3:00/4:30 pm (no weekend work). Benefits: Weekly Direct Deposit Potential to qualify for health coverage and 401(k) participation, subject to role and eligibility criteria Ready to get started? Connect with a recruiter today to explore open opportunities. Ready to get started? Connect with a recruiter today to feel the difference you can make. Ref: #CLETAZA-Aug26