Teaching Assistant

Limited Positions - Apply Now & Secure Your Classroom Role for the 2026-2027 School Year!
Start the 2026–2027 school year strong. We're hiring now! Zen Educate is looking for Para Educators. If you're passionate about supporting students with special needs and want a full-time role where you can make a real impact, this could be your next step. Dont wait, connect with a recruiter today and see how we can help you find the perfect role.

???? About Zen Educate
Zen Educate partners with public and charter schools across various school districts to build stronger school communities. Our team is committed to supporting educators with personalized job matches and ongoing mentorship at every step.When you join Zen, youre not just taking an assignment, youre joining an educator-first platform that supports you every step of the way. We are actively hiring to support students with specialized academic, social, and physical needs

The Teacher Aide provides direct help to classroom teachers, contributing to an engaging learning environment. Key responsibilities include offering academic and behavioral support to K-12 students requiring additional assistance, helping maintain a structured classroom, and employing various methods to enrich student learning experiences. You will also support students with personal care or hygiene as needed.

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:
- This role requires travel throughout Chicago city limits, so candidates must live in Chicago or within an easy local commute.
- 60 credits, Associates Degree, obtained a passing score on an appropriate ADE assessment, or ParaPro/Praxis Exam
- 1+ years experience working with children with special needs
- Applicants must have professional proficiency in English
- US Work Authorization - Zen Educate cannot provide sponsorship for an employment visa or relocation assistance at this time.

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:
- Educator License with Stipulations (ELS) with a Paraprofessional (PARA) endorsement from the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE)
- Previous experience working in special education
- Behavioral Technician or PCA experience
- Crisis prevention (CPI) training
- CPR certification

Salary
Pay: $27 per hour, paid weekly
Schedule: Minimum two days throughout 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.

Connect with a recruiter today to get started with your application!

Ref: #CHITAZA-Oct26