Instructional Assistant

Launch Your Career in Education for the 2026-2027 School Year!
Were hiring paraprofessionals and classroom support staff for the 2026–2027 school year 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.

???? 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.

Our Special Education Aides are crucial team members who assist in adapting curriculum, utilizing assistive technologies, and fostering a positive and encouraging atmosphere for students with disabilities.

Key Responsibilities:
- Behavioral Support: Implement and follow Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) or Individualized Education Plan (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, parents, 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: Taking notes and recording data on students progres

Required Qualifications:
- Demonstrated hands-on experience safely managing and de-escalating SEVERE behavioural challenges (including but not limited to self-injurious behaviour, elopement, physical aggression toward staff/peers) - ABA training or 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 behaviors
- 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 - $24.5 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.

Ready to shape the future of learning? Apply today and help every student reach their full potential

Ref: #SDTAZA-Sep26