Instructional Assistant

Looking for a Rewarding Role for the 20262027 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. Please note 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
Zen Educate makes finding your perfect role in education easier! We are a company dedicated to matching you to your ideal education position based on your preferences and getting you into a school you love! We pride ourselves on providing continuous, personalized support throughout your application process. We are a company ready to make a difference in education and support the current educator shortage.

As a Special Education Instructional Assistant, you'll work closely with licensed teachers to support K12 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.

Connect with a recruiter today to get started with your application!

Ref: #SDTAINDAP-Aug26