Paraprofessional

Job Description

Job Description

Paraprofessional – Canonsburg, PAMonday–Friday schedule from 8:15 AM to 2:45 PM

Hope is a premier provider of educational and therapeutic services for children with special needs throughout Southwestern Pennsylvania. We are a model of excellence, a safe haven for students, and a steady advocate for families who need our support.

Guided by compassion, integrity, innovation, perseverance, and teamwork, our multidisciplinary team takes a best-practices approach to helping every student succeed.

We will always be a source of hope.

Why Join Hope?

At Hope, we believe exceptional paraprofessionals deserve a workplace where they feel supported, valued, and empowered to make a meaningful difference.

When you join our team, you'll enjoy:

• Meaningful work every day — Help students build confidence, develop new skills, and achieve greater independence while making a lasting impact in their lives.

• A school schedule that supports work-life balance — Enjoy a consistent Monday–Friday schedule from 8:15 AM to 2:45 PM that follows the school calendar. No evenings or weekends, with school holidays and breaks built into the year! 

• Consistent, Year-Round Employment — Unlike many school-based positions that pause during summer break, Hope paraprofessionals continue supporting students through our 6-week ESY program, helping provide consistency for students while maintaining reliable employment throughout the year. Additional hours may also be available through Hope Therapy Centers’ IBHS clinic for team members interested in expanding their schedule. 

• A collaborative team environment — Work alongside special education teachers, BCBAs, therapists, and fellow paraprofessionals who support one another and celebrate student success together.

• A modern educational setting — Join our beautiful Canonsburg campus in Southpointe, featuring bright classrooms, therapy spaces, and a professional environment designed to support students and staff.

• Hands-on experience — Build valuable experience in special education, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), behavior support, and classroom instruction while working directly with students.

• Professional growth opportunities — Whether you're beginning your career in education or exploring a future in ABA, teaching, psychology, or therapy, Hope provides opportunities to learn, grow, and advance.

• A team that cares — Be part of an organization where relationships, teamwork, and compassion guide everything we do.

• Competitive benefits — Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, paid holidays, retirement savings opportunities, and additional employee benefits.

About the Role

As a School-Based Paraprofessional at Hope, you'll play an essential role in helping students with special needs learn, grow, and thrive. Working under the direction of certified teachers and alongside a multidisciplinary team, you'll provide individualized support that promotes academic achievement, positive behavior, communication, social development, and independence.

Every day brings new opportunities to celebrate student successes and make a meaningful difference.

Core ResponsibilitiesSupport Student Learning

Provide one-on-one and small-group instructional support to reinforce classroom lessons, assist with assignments, and encourage student participation.

Promote Student Success

Implement teacher-directed instructional strategies, behavior support plans, and individualized interventions that help students achieve their educational goals.

Foster a Positive Learning Environment

Help create a safe, structured, and engaging classroom where students feel supported, respected, and encouraged to succeed.

Collaborate with the Educational Team

Partner with teachers, therapists, BCBAs, and other professionals to provide consistent support and meet each student's unique needs.

Assist with Daily Student Needs

Support students with transitions, mobility, self-care, toileting, feeding, and other personal care needs as appropriate while maintaining student dignity and independence.

Maintain a Safe and Organized Environment

Supervise students throughout the school day, assist during lunch, recess, community outings, and classroom transitions, while helping maintain organized learning spaces.

What You BringRequired Qualifications

• Associate's Degree or 48 completed college credits required 

• Experience working with children or individuals with special needs preferred, but not required

• Excellent communication and teamwork skills

• Patience, flexibility, and a positive attitude

• A passion for helping students reach their full potential

Required Clearances

• Act 33 – PA Child Abuse History Clearance

• Act 34 – PA State Criminal History Clearance

• Act 114 – FBI Clearance (Department of Education)

• Act 126 – Mandated Reporter Training

• Act 168 – Previous Employer Disclosure

• CPR/First Aid Certification

• TB Test & Physical

Join Our Team

If you're looking for more than just your next job — if you're looking for an opportunity to build meaningful relationships, make a lasting impact, and be part of a team that’s changing lives every day— we invite you to apply.