Instructional Aide

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 partners with public and charter schools across various school districts. We help schools hire dedicated paraprofessionals and teaching assistants, creating smart, timely matches that support students with special education needs and build stronger school communities. 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. Responsibilities Assisting licensed staff in the classroom Aid students in meeting their individualized education plan (IEP) Maintain a classroom environment that is conducive to learning and de-escalate behaviors Work with individuals and/or small groups when activities and assignments are presented Provides support for students in crisis Utilize a variety of learning methods to enhance the student's learning experiences and support them as needed. Required Qualifications High school diploma obtained in the United States 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 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 Associate's degree or higher (obtained in the US or US equivalency check completed) Pro-Act training Certification in CPR and First Aid Salary Pay: $22 - $24.50 per hour, paid weekly. 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. Don’t wait! Apply and connect with a recruiter today and take the first step toward your future in education. Ref: #SDTAZA-Oct26