Instructional assistant

Secure Your Role for the 2026–2027 Academic Year! Step into full-time paraprofessional and classroom aide roles and support students with special needs in real classroom settings. You'll grow your skills, gain meaningful experience, and work where your support matters every day. These roles support students with a range of special education needs, including mild, moderate, and severe needs. Don’t wait! Connect with a recruiter today and take the first step toward your future in education. About Zen Educate Zen Educate makes finding your perfect role in education easier! We are a company dedicated to matching you to your ideal education position based on your preferences and getting you into a school you love! We pride ourselves on providing continuous, personalized support throughout your application process. We are a company ready to make a difference in education and support the current educator shortage. In this role you will be positively contributing to the lives of children in special education by supporting licensed teachers with academic adaptations, self-care, and social/behavioral needs. This role would consist of providing daily substitute coverage in special education classes - with the possibility of securing a longer-term position if interested/fit is right. We are seeking Personal Care Assistants (PCAs) to join us supporting students. In this role positively contributing to the lives of children in special education by supporting licensed teachers with academic adaptations, self-care, and social/behavioral needs. 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 - Work with individuals and/or small groups when activities and assignments are presented - Provide support for students in crisis - Utilize a variety of learning methods to enhance the student's learning experiences and support them as needed - Celebrate the students you’re working with - Support students with elements of personal care (feeding, toileting, etc.) Required Qualifications: - High School Diploma or GED - 1+ years of experience working with children with special needs in a classroom setting - 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: - Educator License with Stipulations (ELS) with a Paraprofessional (PARA) endorsement from the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE)- Previous experience working in special education - Behavioral Technician or PCA experience - Crisis prevention (CPI) training - CPR certification Salary Pay: $20.00 per hour, paid weekly. Schedule: Minimum three days throughout Monday to Friday, within hours of 7:30 - 3:00/4:30 pm. 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. Connect with a recruiter today to get started with your application! Ref: #PHLTAZA-Oct26