Instructional Assistant

Looking for a Rewarding Role for the 2026–2027 School Year?
Zen Educate is looking for Para Educators. If you're passionate about supporting students with special needs and want a role where you can make a real impact, this could be your next step. These roles support students with a range of special education needs, including mild, moderate, and severe needs. Please note we are actively recruiting for 2026/2027 roles, starting upon the launch of the new school year. We are reserving roles in a first-come first-serve manner, so apply now to get your foot in the door and secure your next role before the first day of school!

???? About Zen Educate
Zen Educate connects schools with passionate, high-quality educators through a simple and transparent hiring process. We partner with public and charter schools to help them find the right staff, while making it easier for educators to discover roles that fit their skills, preferences, and career goals. Our mission is to create better outcomes for students by supporting the educators who make it happen, through smarter matching, fairer pay, and ongoing support.

This Teacher Aide role involves working directly with students under the teacher's direction, reinforcing lessons, supervising activities, and offering individual attention to help ensure every student understands and engages.

We are seeking Paraprofessionals 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 youre working with
- Support students with elements of personal care (feeding, toileting, etc.)

Required Qualifications:

Education:
- 72 quarter college credits or higher, OR one of the following:
- A high school diploma with a Washington State Paraeducator Certificate
- A high school diploma with a Passing score on one of 3 Washington approved assessments:
* ETS Parapro score of at least 455
* Pearson Paraprofessional assessment score of at least 220
* The Master Teacher Inc Paraeducator Online Training Program grade of at least 65%


Language & Authorization:
- Professional proficiency in English.
- U.S. Work Authorization (Zen Educate cannot provide sponsorship for an employment visa or relocation assistance).

Experience:
- Prior experience working with children in a structured setting is an asset.
- Prior experience, personal or professional, assisting people with special needs or disabilities.

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:
- Previous experience working in special education
- Behavioral Technician or PCA experience
- Crisis prevention (CPI) training
- CPR certification

Salary
Pay: $25 - $28 per hour, paid weekly.
Schedule: Minimum 5 days throughout Monday to Friday, within hours of 7:30 - 3:00/4:30 pm.

Benefits:
Weekly Direct Deposit
Potential to qualify for health coverage and 401(k) participation, subject to role and eligibility criteria.

Dont wait! Apply and connect with a recruiter today and take the first step toward your future in education.

Ref: #SEATAZA-Aug26