Instructional Aide

Looking for a Rewarding Role for the 2026–2027 School Year?
Zen Educate is looking for Para Educators. If youre 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.

About Zen Educate
Zen Educate is a technology-driven platform that connects schools with high-quality educators in a faster, more transparent way. We simplify the hiring process by matching educators to roles that align with their skills, preferences, and availability.
By reducing friction for schools and increasing access to opportunities for educators, we’re building a more efficient and fair education staffing system.
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:
Respond to and Manage Aggressive Behaviors: Safely manage and de-escalate aggressive outbursts. Implement physical and verbal de-escalation techniques as trained.
Implement Intensive Behavior Intervention (IBI): Administer one-to-one IBI programs in both school and home settings, specifically designed to address and reduce aggressive behaviors.
Data Collection: Accurately collect and record behavioral charting data and anecdotal notes, with a focus on documenting triggers, antecedents, and consequences of aggressive episodes.
Provide Instructional Support: Assist a teacher in providing instruction to individuals or small groups, using positive reinforcement and redirection to help students engage in learning activities.
Ensure Safety: Immediately report and respond to any aggressive behavior that threatens the safety of the student or others. Assure the health and safety of all individuals by following established protocols.
Personal Care: Assist students with personal hygiene needs, which may include managing behaviors during activities like toileting or feeding.
Required Qualifications:
High School Diploma
ABA training or at least 1 year of behavior tech/interventionist experience or RBT certification
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:
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: $21 - $23 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.
Ready to get started? Connect with a recruiter today to feel the difference you can make.
Ref: #LATAZA-Oct26