Instructional Assistant - Immediate Start

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 is tackling the educator shortage by helping schools connect with passionate teaching assistants and paraprofessionals. We’re proud to support both schools and staff by creating smart, fast matches that benefit students and communities alike. Our Instructional Assistants 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. Please note this role is in Poway! Key Responsibilities Behavioral Support: Implement and follow Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) or Individualized Education Programs (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 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: Take notes and record data on student progress. Required Qualifications: Demonstrated hands-on experience safely managing and de-escalating SEVERE behavioural challenges (including but not limited to self-injurious behavior, elopement, physical aggression toward staff/peers). ABA training, 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 behaviours. 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: $22.00 - $26 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: #SDTAINDAP-Oct26 Zen Educate