Instructional Assistant

Launch Your Career in Education This Spring for the 2026-2027 School Year!
Were hiring paraprofessionals and classroom support staff for the 20262027 school year to work with students who need specialized support. These roles are focused on SPED classrooms and are ideal for those looking to grow their skills and make a meaningful impact all year long.

???? About Zen Educate
At Zen Educate, we make it easier for educators to find roles that truly fit. We connect you with schools that match your experience, preferences, and goals, so you can focus on teaching, not job searching. By partnering closely with schools and districts, we create better matches, offer fair pay, and support you throughout your journey, helping you build a career that works for you.

Our Instructional Assistants are fundamental to a smoothly running classroom, providing practical support that allows teachers to focus on instruction, while also offering encouragement and guidance to students throughout the school day.

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: #SDTAZA-Jul26