Teaching Assistant

Teaching Assistant - Immediate Start at Zen Educate summary:

This role is for a Teaching Assistant supporting students with special education needs in classroom settings by assisting licensed staff, managing behavior, and providing personalized care. The position requires experience with special needs students and involves physical activity such as lifting and moving around the classroom. Zen Educate matches candidates with schools and offers weekly pay, potential benefits, and career support.

Start the School Year Strong! - Now hiring for the 2025–2026 school year.
We're hiring now! Zen Educate is looking for Para Educators. If you're passionate about supporting students with special needs and want a full-time 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.

Talk to a recruiter today and see how we can help you find the perfect role.

This Teaching Assistant role provides a dynamic opportunity to contribute to the instructional environment, assisting with lesson preparation, classroom management, and providing tailored support to meet diverse student needs.

Key Responsibilities:

- Assisting licensed staff in the classroom
- Aid students in meeting their individualized education plan (IEP)
- Maintain a classroom environment that is conducive to learning
- Work with individuals and/or small groups when activities and assignments are presented
- Provide support for students in crisis
- Utilize a variety of learning methods to enhance the student's learning experiences and support them as needed
- Behavior management and de-escalation support
- Celebrate the students you’re working with
- Support students with elements of personal care (feeding, toileting, etc.)

Required Qualifications:

- High school diploma or higher education required
- 1+ years experience in childcare/education
- 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:

- Previous experience working in special education classroom
- Behavioral Technician or PCA experience
- Crisis prevention (CPI) training
- CPR certification

Salary
Pay: $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.

Why Zen
At Zen Educate, we take the time to understand your preferences, experience, and career goals, then match you with schools that fit your needs. Our personalized approach makes finding the right role faster, easier, and more rewarding.

About Zen
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.

-NHQ-TA-January

Keywords:

Teaching Assistant, Special Education, Para Educator, Classroom Support, Behavior Management, Individualized Education Plan, Student Support, Education Assistance, Childcare, Crisis Prevention