Instructional Assistant

Looking for a Rewarding Role for the 2026–2027 School Year? 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. These roles support students with a range of special education needs, including mild, moderate, and severe needs. About Zen Educate At Zen Educate, our mission is simple: to support schools by connecting them with dedicated, high-quality education professionals. We believe in making the hiring process easier for educators and creating better outcomes for students. When you join Zen, you’re not just taking an assignment, you’re 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 In this supportive School Aide position, your responsibilities will include preparing learning tools, supervising students during activities and transitions, and assisting the teacher in meeting the needs of all learners. 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. Required Qualifications/Experience: High school diploma or the equivalent Experience working with children with special educational needs Experience working with personal care Passion for working within special education U.S. work authorization (Zen Educate cannot provide sponsorship for an employment visa or relocation assistance at this time) Applicants must be professionally proficient in English 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 Past work experience in a school CPI Training Salary Pay: $24 - $28 per hour, paid weekly. 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: #SFTAZA-Oct26