Instructional Assistant

Job Description

Secure Your Role for the 2026–2027 School Year! We're hiring now! 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. Now's your chance to get set up for success and be ready to create strong bonds and make a lasting impact.

Ready to get started? Connect with a recruiter today to feel the difference you can make. ???? 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.

The Special Education Paraprofessional is key to helping classroom teachers establish and maintain a safe, welcoming, and inclusive learning environment. Your main focus will be to deliver specialized assistance to students with special needs. This work includes offering direct one-on-one or small group educational support, ensuring lesson comprehension, actively participating in carrying out IEP objectives, and providing assistance with behavior strategies and personal care as required.

Key Responsibilities

Assist licensed staff in the classroom by helping implement academic adaptations and individualized education plans (IEPs).

Work with students individually or in small groups to support their self-care and social/behavioral needs.

Maintain a classroom environment that is safe and conducive to learning.

Provide timely support for students in crisis situations.

Utilize a variety of learning methods to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.

Must-Have Qualifications

Education: 60 college credits or higher, OR one of the following:

A passing score on the Paraeducator Assessment (65% or higher on the Instructional Support test and 70% or higher on the Knowledge and Application test) A passing score on the Paraprofessional Assessment (combined score of 460 or above) 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.

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

ParaPro Certification (upskilling options provided on a case-by-case basis for candidates without the standard educational background) Behavioral Technician or PCA experience working with children is an asset.

Past work experience in a school setting with children with special needs is an asset.

Salary

Pay: $20 - $21 per hour, paid weekly. (for low to medium sped support)* Pay: $22 - $23 per hour, paid weekly. (for high sped support - prior experience required)* 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.

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

Ref: #MSPTAZA-Nov26