Instructional Assistant

Secure Your Role for the 2026–2027 Academic Year! Please note: Schools are currently on summer break. However, we are actively recruiting right now for the upcoming school year starting in August 2026! Joining our team early is a great way to complete your onboarding, showcase your skills, and secure your position before the fall rush. We are looking for paraprofessionals and classroom aides to support special education students. Now’s your chance to get set up for success and be ready to create strong bonds and make a lasting impact the moment doors open this August. About Zen Educate Zen Educate is a technology-driven platform that connects schools with high-quality educators in a faster, more transparent way. We simplify the hiring process by matching educators to roles that align with their skills, preferences, and availability. By reducing friction for schools and increasing access to opportunities for educators, we’re building a more efficient and fair education staffing system. Our Teacher Aides are fundamental to a smoothly running classroom, providing practical support that allows teachers to focus on instruction, while also offering encouragement and guidance to students throughout the school day. Responsibilities 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Personal Care: Support students with daily routines such as toileting, feeding, or mobility. Required Qualifications/Experience: High School Diploma Experience supporting individuals with Special Educational Needs Experience providing personal care support Excellent communication and interpersonal skills Ability to stay calm and patient in challenging situations US Work Authorization - Zen Educate cannot provide sponsorship for an employment visa or relocation assistance at this time. English proficiency Passion for supporting students CPR and First Aid (certification will be provided for otherwise qualified candidates) 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/Experience Experience supporting children with autism, complex or severe emotional needs, or in roles such as ABA therapy Experience in special education, particularly with moderate to severe behaviors Bachelor’s Degree Knowledge of behavioral intervention strategies Additional training in behavioral techniques Salary Pay: $25 - $29 per hour, paid weekly. Schedule: Monday to Friday, within hours of 7:30 am - 3:00/4:30 pm (no weekend work). Benefits: Weekly pay Paid Sick Leave 401K (certain eligibility criteria) Ready to get started? Connect with a recruiter today to explore open opportunities. Ready to get started? Connect with a recruiter today to feel the difference you can make. Ref: #SFTAZA-Jul26