Instructional Aide

Job Description Join Our Classroom Team Today, Start the New School Year Strong! Your Opportunity to Make a Difference and Inspire Starts Now. We’re hiring paraprofessionals and classroom support staff for immediate hire 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. These roles support students with a range of special education needs, including mild, moderate, and severe needs. Ready to get started? Connect with a recruiter today to feel the difference you can make. ???? 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 As an Instructional Aide, you’ll work closely with classroom teachers to support K–12 students with autism and behavioral needs. You’ll provide one-on-one and small group assistance, helping implement behavior plans and create a positive, structured learning environment where every student can thrive. Key Responsibilities: -Behavioral Support: Implement 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. Required Qualifications/Experience: -High School Diploma -Experience supporting individuals with Special Educational Needs -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: 48 college credits Training in CPI (Crisis Prevention Institute) or Pro-Act (Professional Assault Crisis Training) is highly desirable Two years of experience working with children, preferably in a setting with students who have significant behavioral challenges. CPR and First Aid Salary Pay: $22 - $24 per hour Schedule: Monday to Friday, within hours of 7:30 am - 3:00/4:30 pm (no weekend work). 25-30 hours per week for full time roles 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: #OCTAZA-Oct26