Instructional Assistant - Great Opportunity
Launch Your Career in Education This SpringAs the school year wraps up, there's no better time to jumpstart your journey in education. We’re hiring paraprofessionals and classroom support staff to work with K–12 special education students. While the current school year concludes in early June, joining our team now is a great way to showcase your skills and opens up the strong possibility of securing a position for the next academic year!👋 About Zen EducateZen Educate is tackling the educator shortage by helping schools connect with passionate teaching assistants and paraprofessionals. We’re proud to support both schools and staff by creating smart, fast matches that benefit students and communities alike.Our Instructional Assistants are fundamental to a smoothly running classroom, providing practical support that allows teachers to focus on instruction, while also offering encouragement and guidance to students throughout the school day.Key Responsibilities:Behavioral Support: Implement and follow Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) or Individualized Education Plan (IEPs)Individualized Support: Provide one-on-one or small group support using positive reinforcement and de-escalation strategies to promote self-regulation, social-emotional skills, and engagement.Classroom Assistance: Collaborate with teachers to maintain a positive, inclusive learning environment and encourage student participation.Communication: Work closely with teachers, parents, and staff to ensure consistent and effective support for students.Personal Care: Support with personal care or hygiene as needed, including toileting, feeding, and dressing.Note taking: Taking notes and recording data on students progresRequired Qualifications:Demonstrated hands-on experience safely managing and de-escalating SEVERE behavioural challenges (including but not limited to self-injurious behaviour, elopement, physical aggression toward staff/peers) - ABA training or at least 10 months of behavior tech/interventionist experience or RBT certificationExperience supporting individuals with Special Educational NeedsExperience with elopement, nonverbal and/or aggressive behaviorsExcellent communication and interpersonal skillsAbility to stay calm and patient in challenging situationsEnglish proficiencyU.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 applyPhysical Requirements:Comfortable being on your feet and moving around the classroom throughout the dayAble 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:3 months experience de-escalating SEVERE behaviours (including self-injurious behaviour, elopement & physical aggression towards staff/peers). Experience in Special Education, particularly with moderate to severe behaviors, ABA Therapy, Behaviour Technician Experience or AAC DevicesKnowledge of behavioral intervention strategiesCPR and First AidProAct TrainingSalaryPay: $22 - $24.5 per hourSchedule: Monday to Friday, within hours of 7:30 am - 3:00/4:30 pm (no weekend work).Benefits:Weekly payPaid Sick Leave401K (certain eligibility criteria)-Join our training sessions and professional development opportunities to stay updated on the latest in special education and behavioral support.Ready to get started? Connect with a recruiter today to feel the difference you can make.Ref: #SDTAZA-Jun26