Instructional Assistant

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 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. As a Special Education Instructional Assistant, you'll work closely with licensed teachers to support K–12 students with special needs in the classroom. Your role will focus on helping students succeed academically, socially, and emotionally by providing one-on-one and small group assistance tailored to their IEP goals. Why Support an Afterschool Program? Looking for a reliable, long-term position that leaves your mornings completely free? Or a flexible part-time role? Whether you are pursuing a degree, managing morning childcare, or have other responsibilities taking up your mornings / early afternoons, our extended-day educator roles offer the ultimate steady schedule without sacrificing your morning flexibility. Build a consistent career path while empowering local youth in campuses across Central San Diego! Responsibilities Lead Engaging Activities: Guide children (UTK–8th grade) through hands-on STEM projects, arts and crafts, sports, and team games in Klassic Kids or PrimeTime programs. Support Academic & Social Growth: Provide targeted homework help, mentor positive social skills, and implement behavior support and de-escalation strategies. Provide Individualized Inclusion: Adapt daily support for students with unique behavioral, personal care, or mobility needs, ensuring every child can fully participate. Keep Kids Safe & Healthy: Maintain a secure, active environment in classrooms and outdoors; assist with student safety, mobility, and health procedures as needed. Collaborate & Step Up: Partner with teachers, Site Directors, and Special Education staff to support educational goals, stepping in as a general Youth Leader as needed. Qualifications -Passion for working with youth ages 4 to 13 (UTK–8th grade) -Strong communication skills and enthusiastic leadership Physical Requirements: Comfortable being on your feet and moving around 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 In-person CPR & First Aid Certification 48+ College Units Salary Pay: $24-$25 per hour, paid weekly. Schedule: Mon–Fri, 1:45 PM – 5:30 PM (~4 hrs/day) | Select Late-Start Sites: 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM (2.5 hrs/day) 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: #SDTAINDAP-Oct26