Instructional Assistant - Hiring Now at Zen Educate

Secure Your Role for the 2026–2027 Academic Year!
Please note: Schools are currently on summer break. However, we are actively recruiting right now for the upcoming school year starting in August 2026!
Joining our team early is a great way to complete your onboarding, showcase your skills, and secure your position before the fall rush. We are looking for paraprofessionals and classroom aides to support special education students. Now’s your chance to get set up for success and be ready to create strong bonds and make a lasting impact the moment doors open this August.

👋 About Zen Educate
Zen 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.

As a Special Education Instructional Assistant, you'll work closely with licensed teachers to support K–12 students with special needs in the classroom. Your role will focus on helping students succeed academically, socially, and emotionally by providing one-on-one and small group assistance tailored to their IEP goals.

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: $25 - $26 per hour, paid weekly.
Schedule: Monday to Friday, within hours of 7:30 am - 3:00/4:30 pm (no weekend work).

Benefits:

• Weekly pay
• Paid Sick Leave
• 401K (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 shape the future of learning? Apply today and help every student reach their full potential

Ref: #LATAINDAP-Jul26