Instructional Aide

Looking for a Rewarding Role for the 2026–2027 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 partners with public and charter schools across various school districts to build stronger school communities. Our team is committed to supporting educators with personalized job matches and ongoing mentorship at every step. As a Special Education Paraprofessional, 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. Responsibilities - Behavioral Intervention: Implement individualized Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) for students with autism and emotional/behavioral needs. Use evidence-based strategies including positive reinforcement, de-escalation techniques, and proactive behavior supports to help students regulate emotions and develop coping skills. - Targeted Support: Provide one-on-one or small group behavioral support, tailoring interventions to each student’s needs. Support students in building self-regulation, social-emotional skills, and classroom engagement. - Classroom Collaboration: Work closely with teachers and behavior specialists to create a structured, supportive learning environment. Support classroom management by reinforcing expectations, modeling positive behavior, and helping students stay on task. - Progress Monitoring: Track and document behavioral data consistently, including incidents, triggers, responses, and outcomes. Use this data to inform adjustments to BIPs and support team decision-making. - Team Communication: Partner with special education staff, behavior analysts, and families to maintain a unified approach to student support. Share observations and collaborate on strategies to ensure consistency across environments. Required Qualifications/Experience: - High school diploma or the equivalent - Experience working with children with special educational needs - Experience working with personal care - Passion for working within special education - U.S. work authorization (Zen Educate cannot provide sponsorship for an employment visa or relocation assistance at this time) - Applicants must be professionally proficient in English - CPR and First Aid (certification will be provided for otherwise qualified candidates) 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/Experience - Past work experience in a school - CPI Training Salary Pay: $24 - $28 per hour, paid weekly. 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. Connect with a recruiter today to get started with your application! Ref: #SFTAZA-Sep26