Instructional Assistant

Join Our Classroom Team Today, We are Hiring! Your Opportunity to Make a Difference and Inspire Starts Now. We’re hiring paraprofessionals and classroom support staff for immediate hire to work with students who need specialized support. These roles are focused on SPED classrooms and are ideal for those looking to grow their skills and make a meaningful impact all year long. These roles support students with a range of special education needs, including mild, moderate, and severe needs. Ready to get started? Connect with a recruiter today to feel the difference you can make. About Zen Educate At Zen Educate, our mission is simple: to support schools by connecting them with dedicated, high-quality education professionals. We believe in making the hiring process easier for educators and creating better outcomes for students. As a Special Education Instructional Assistant, you'll work closely with licensed teachers to support K–12 students with special needs in the classroom. Your role will focus on helping students succeed academically, socially, and emotionally by providing one-on-one and small group assistance tailored to their IEP goals. Please note this role is in Poway!

Key Responsibilities

Behavioral Support: Implement and follow Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) or Individualized Education Programs (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 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: Take notes and record data on student progress. Required Qualifications:

Demonstrated hands-on experience safely managing and de-escalating SEVERE behavioural challenges (including but not limited to self-injurious behavior, elopement, physical aggression toward staff/peers). ABA training, 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 behaviours. 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: $22.00 - $26 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. Don't wait, start your journey in education now, connect with a recruiter to find your perfect role. Ref: #SDTAZA-Nov26