Instructional Assistant - Immediate Start

Make a Lasting Impact Before the Next School Year!School may be ending soon, but your opportunity to make a difference is just beginning. We're hiring paraprofessionals and classroom aides to support students with special education needs in school-based settings. This is a great time to build hands-on classroom experience, strengthen your skills, and form meaningful connections that set you up for success before the fall hiring rush.Connect with a recruiter today to explore available roles.As a Teacher Aide, you'll support the teacher in fostering a nurturing and productive educational setting, assisting with student needs, managing classroom logistics, and helping to implement daily lesson plans.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- Celebrate the students you're working with - Support students with elements of personal care (feeding, toileting, etc.)Required Qualifications:- 60 credits, Associates Degree, obtained a passing score on an appropriate ADE assessment, or ParaPro/Praxis Exam - 1+ years experience working with children with special needs - 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 processPreferred Qualifications:- Educator License with Stipulations (ELS) with a Paraprofessional (PARA) endorsement from the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE)- Previous experience working in special education- Behavioral Technician or PCA experience- Crisis prevention (CPI) training- CPR certificationSalaryPay: $20 per hour, paid weeklySchedule: Minimum two days throughout 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.About ZenZen 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.Why ZenAt Zen Educate, we're transforming how educators find their perfect roles, making the process simpler, fairer, and more rewarding. Our innovative platform connects educators with schools in a way that's transparent, efficient, and empowering. We're passionate about offering fair pay, lowering costs for schools, and reinvesting in what truly matters: students.Ref: CHI_TA_ZA-Apr26