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Teaching Assistant - Immediate Start at Zen Educate

Zen Educate No longer available $20 - $21/hour

Job Description

Limited Positions - Now hiring for the school year.
We're hiring now! Zen Educate is looking for Para Educators. You'll grow your skills, gain meaningful experience, and work where your support matters every day. These roles support students with a range of special education needs, including mild, moderate, and severe needs.
Don't wait, connect with a recruiter today and see how we can help you find the perfect role.

Become a Teaching Assistant and play a key role in student development, assisting with the delivery of educational programs, guiding students through activities, and helping to monitor their progress and engagement.

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.

Must-Have Qualifications
Education:
- 60 college credits or higher, OR one of the following:
- A passing score on the Paraeducator Assessment (65% or higher on the Instructional Support test and 70% or higher on the Knowledge and Application test)
- A passing score on the Paraprofessional Assessment (combined score of 460 or above)

Language & Authorization:
- Professional proficiency in English.
- U.S. Work Authorization (Zen Educate cannot provide sponsorship for an employment visa or relocation assistance).

Experience:
- Prior experience working with children in a structured setting is an asset.

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
- ParaPro Certification (upskilling options provided on a case-by-case basis for candidates without the standard educational background)
- Behavioral Technician or PCA experience working with children is an asset.
- Past work experience in a school setting with children with special needs is an asset.

Salary
Pay: $20 - $21 per hour, paid weekly. (for low to medium sped support)
Pay: $22 - $23 per hour, paid weekly. (for high sped support - prior experience required)
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)

depends on availability of schools and roles near your location.

Why Zen
At 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.

About Zen
Zen Educate is redefining how educators find their next role. Our platform streamlines the job search process, making it faster and easier for you to find opportunities that align with your skills, goals, and values - all with personalized support.


Ref: MSP-NHQ-TA-February2026-105

$42k - $44k is competitive for Teaching Assistants, Postsecondary nationally

National salary averages
$42k - $44k
↑ 31% vs typical entry-level
Entry
Mid
Senior
This job
$28k Market range (10th-90th percentile) $74k

Senior roles pay 85% more than entry—experience is well rewarded.

Strong candidate leverage

Strong hiring activity gives you options. Use competing offers strategically.

Hiring leverage
Candidate-favored
Wage leverage
Balanced
Mobility
Good mobility

Who this leverage applies to

Stronger for: Senior candidates with options

Where to negotiate

Base salary
Sign-on bonus
Title / level
Remote flexibility
Scope & responsibility
Start date / PTO

Likely Possible Unlikely

Use competing offers and timing to your advantage.

Does this path compound?

Job Growth →
High churn
Growth, flat pay
🚀 Compound
Growth + pay upside
⚠️ Plateau
Limited growth
Specialize
Experts earn more
Pay Upside →
Expertise pays off

Limited new roles, but specialists earn significantly more.

+3%
10yr growth
A bachelor's degree is typically expected.
Typical: Bachelor's degree

Openings come from turnover, not new growth. Differentiate to advance.

Labor data: BLS 2024