Instructional Assistant - Hiring Now

Job Description

Launch Your Career in Education This Spring for the 2026-2027 School Year!
\n We’re 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.

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???? About Zen Educate
\n Zen Educate partners with public and charter schools across various school districts. We help schools hire dedicated paraprofessionals and teaching assistants, creating smart, timely matches that support students with special education needs and build stronger school communities.

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This Teaching Assistant role provides a dynamic opportunity to contribute to the instructional environment, assisting with lesson preparation, classroom management, and providing tailored support to meet diverse student needs.

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Responsibilities

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• Behavioral Intervention: Implement individualized Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) for students with autism and emotional/behavioral needs. Use evidence-based strategies including positive reinforcement, de-escalation techniques, and proactive behavior supports to help students regulate emotions and develop coping skills.
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• Targeted Support: Provide one-on-one or small group behavioral support, tailoring interventions to each student’s needs. Support students in building self-regulation, social-emotional skills, and classroom engagement.
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• Classroom Collaboration: Work closely with teachers and behavior specialists to create a structured, supportive learning environment. Support classroom management by reinforcing expectations, modeling positive behavior, and helping students stay on task.
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• Progress Monitoring: Track and document behavioral data consistently, including incidents, triggers, responses, and outcomes. Use this data to inform adjustments to BIPs and support team decision-making.
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• Team Communication: Partner with special education staff, behavior analysts, and families to maintain a unified approach to student support. Share observations and collaborate on strategies to ensure consistency across environments.
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• Personal Care: Support students with daily routines such as toileting, feeding, or mobility.
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Required Qualifications/Experience:

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• High School Diploma
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• Experience supporting individuals with Special Educational Needs
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• Experience providing personal care support
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• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
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• Ability to stay calm and patient in challenging situations
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• US Work Authorization - Zen Educate cannot provide sponsorship for an employment visa or relocation assistance at this time.
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• English proficiency
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• Passion for supporting students
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• CPR and First Aid (certification will be provided for otherwise qualified candidates)
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Physical Requirements:

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• Comfortable being on your feet and moving around the classroom throughout the day
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• Able to lift up to 20 lbs and safely assist students when needed (kneeling, bending, quick response)
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• Additional physical requirements may be requested during your application process
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Preferred Qualifications/Experience

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• Experience supporting children with autism, complex or severe emotional needs, or in roles such as ABA therapy
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• Experience in special education, particularly with moderate to severe behaviors
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• Bachelor’s Degree
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• Knowledge of behavioral intervention strategies
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• Additional training in behavioral techniques
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Salary
\n Pay: $25 - $29 per hour, paid weekly.
\n Schedule: Monday to Friday, within hours of 7:30 am - 3:00/4:30 pm (no weekend work).

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Benefits:

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• Weekly pay
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• Paid Sick Leave
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• 401K (certain eligibility criteria)
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Ready to get started? Connect with a recruiter today to explore open opportunities.

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Don’t wait! Apply and connect with a recruiter today and take the first step toward your future in education.

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Ref: #SFTAZA-Jul26