Instructional Assistant

Don't Wait for Fall - Join Our Classroom Team Today! 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. We are actively recruiting for 2026/2027 roles, starting upon the launch of the new school year. We are reserving roles in a first-come first-serve manner, so apply now to get your foot in the door and secure your next role before the first day of school! 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. 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. Key Responsibilities: Behavioral Support: Implement and follow Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) or Individualized Education Plan (IEPs) Individualized Support: Provide one-on-one or small group support using positive reinforcement and de-escalation strategies to promote self-regulation, social-emotional skills, and engagement. Classroom Assistance: Collaborate with teachers to maintain a positive, inclusive learning environment and encourage student participation. Communication: Work closely with teachers, parents, and staff to ensure consistent and effective support for students. Personal Care: Support with personal care or hygiene as needed, including toileting, feeding, and dressing. Note taking: Taking notes and recording data on students progres Required Qualifications: Demonstrated hands-on experience safely managing and de-escalating SEVERE behavioural challenges (including but not limited to self-injurious behaviour, elopement, physical aggression toward staff/peers) - ABA training or at least 10 months of behavior tech/interventionist experience or RBT certification Experience supporting individuals with Special Educational Needs Experience with elopement, nonverbal and/or aggressive behaviors Excellent communication and interpersonal skills Ability to stay calm and patient in challenging situations English proficiency U.S. work authorization (Zen Educate cannot provide sponsorship for an employment visa or relocation assistance at this time) Candidates must be 18 years or older to apply 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: 3 months of experience de-escalating SEVERE behaviours (including self-injurious behaviour, elopement & physical aggression towards staff/peers). Experience in Special Education, particularly with moderate to severe behaviours, ABA Therapy, Behaviour Technician Experience, or AAC Devices. Knowledge of behavioral intervention strategies. CPR and First Aid certification. ProAct Training. Salary Pay: $22 - $24.5 per hour Schedule: Monday to Friday, within hours of 7:30 am - 3:00/4:30 pm (no weekend work). Benefits: Weekly pay Paid Sick Leave 401K (certain eligibility criteria) -Join our training sessions and professional development opportunities to stay updated on the latest in special education and behavioral support. Don't wait, start your journey in education now, connect with a recruiter to find your perfect role. Ref: #SDTAINDAP-Aug26