Instructional Assistant - Hiring Now

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.

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.
- Prior experience, personal or professional, assisting people with special needs or disabilities.

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.

Ready to shape the future of learning? Apply today and help every student reach their full potential

Ref: #MSPTAZA-Sep26