Paraprofessional

Paraprofessional - Immediate Start at Zen Educate summary:

This role involves supporting special education classrooms by assisting licensed staff with implementing individualized education plans and providing direct support to students with special needs. The position requires experience with students who have mild to severe special education needs and includes responsibilities such as behavior management, personal care assistance, and maintaining a safe learning environment. It offers a Monday to Friday schedule, competitive hourly pay, and potential benefits, aimed at individuals passionate about making a positive impact in education.

Limited Positions - Now hiring for the 2025–2026 school year.
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.

This Paraprofessional opportunity is perfect for individuals passionate about education, offering hands-on experience in supporting student development, assisting with diverse classroom needs, and collaborating closely with teaching staff.

Key Responsibilities
- Assist licensed staff in the classroom by helping implement academic adaptations and individualized education plans (IEPs).
- Work with students individually or in small groups to support their self-care and social/behavioral needs.
- Maintain a classroom environment that is safe and conducive to learning.
- Provide timely support for students in crisis situations.
- Utilize a variety of learning methods to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.

Required Qualifications
- High school diploma obtained in the United States
- 6+ months experience supporting people with special needs (in any capacity), ideally child-focused experience
- Applicants must have professional proficiency in English
- US Work Authorization - Zen Educate cannot provide sponsorship for an employment visa or relocation assistance at this time

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
- Experience working in special education, particularly with moderate to severe behaviors

- Experience with personal care tasks, like diapering and toileting
- Experience handling unexpected behaviour, such as hitting and biting
- Comfortable with eloping

- Experience with behaviour strategies and methodologies
- Experience in collecting data and following BI plan
- Associate's degree or higher (obtained in the US or US equivalency check completed)
- Pro-Act training
- Certification in CPR and First Aid

Salary
Pay: $17-18/hour, paid weekly.

Schedule:

Monday to Friday, within hours of 7:30 am - 3:00/4:30 pm (no weekend work).

Benefits:
- Weekly Direct Deposit
- Potential to qualify for health coverage and 401(k) participation, subject to role and eligibility criteria

Ready to get started? Connect with a recruiter today to explore open opportunities.

Why Zen
With Zen Educate, you’re part of a team that values your experience and supports your success. From your first conversation to your first day in class, we’re here to make sure you feel prepared, confident, and valued.

About Zen
Zen Educate helps schools hire dedicated paraprofessionals and teaching assistants, creating smart, timely matches that support students with special education needs and strengthen school communities.

-NHQ-TA-January

Keywords:

paraprofessional, special education, classroom support, student assistance, individualized education plans, behavior management, teaching assistant, special needs support, education aide, IEP implementation