2540-Instructional Paraprofessional II

Job Description

Job Description

Instructional Paraprofessional II

Full-Time | Non ‑ Exempt , Location: First Children School – Plainfield, NJ, Compensation: $19.50–$22.00 per hour

About the Role

The Instructional Paraprofessional II supports the classroom Teacher by assisting with daily instructional and therapeutic activities, maintaining a safe and clean environment, and providing direct care to students. This role plays a key part in delivering high‑quality educational and therapeutic programming.

First Children School is a New Jersey Department of Education–approved private special education school serving students from PreK through high school with multiple disabilities, including medically fragile, developmentally, intellectually, or physically disabled students, as well as those who are deaf/hard of hearing or visually impaired.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Teacher with daily classroom routines and activities
• Act as a 1:1 aide or teacher assistant (assignment based on needs); provide instruction as directed by the teacher
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized classroom environment
• Support implementation of IEPs and therapy plans
• Provide direct care and supervision to ensure student safety and well‑being
• Facilitate student engagement in educational and therapeutic activities
• Assist with physical needs such as feeding, toileting, and mobility
• Collaborate with the educational team to monitor and document student progress
• Participate in required training and professional development

Team Structure

This role is part of the instructional team and reports to the School Principal.

Basic Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Experience working with children, especially those with special needs, highly desirable
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team
• Compassionate, patient, and committed to student well‑being
• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of American Sign Language (ASL) is a plus

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Vacation and sick pay
• Life insurance
• Short‑ and long‑term disability
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and discount programs
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Employee referral bonus program

Who We Are

First Children Services is a dedicated team of professionals committed to providing exceptional services to children and families. We use a variety of effective techniques and emphasize family involvement to achieve meaningful outcomes. Our team approaches every challenge with compassion, dedication, and determination.

Equal Employment Opportunity

First Children Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We prohibit discrimination and harassment based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, genetics, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other protected characteristic.

Applicants needing reasonable accommodation may email View email address on ziprecruiter.com with the job title, requisition ID, and a description of the requested accommodation.