Instructional Assistant

Position: Instructional Assistant - Immediate Start
Location: Cardiff By The Sea

Get Set for the  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.
Don't wait, connect with a recruiter today and see how we can help you find the perfect role.
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
- Behavioral Support:
Implement and manage behavioral intervention plans (BIPs), provide positive reinforcement, and use de-escalation techniques as necessary.
- Individualized Support:
Provide personalized support to special education students, tailoring materials and strategies to their unique learning and behavioral needs.
- Classroom Assistance:
Assist teachers in managing classroom behaviors, fostering a positive and inclusive environment, and encouraging student participation.
- Data Collection:
Record and maintain detailed data on student progress, behaviors, and interventions to support the special education team.
- Communication:
Build and maintain effective communication with teachers, parents, and school staff to ensure cohesive and consistent support for students.

Required Qualifications
- High school diploma obtained in the United States
- 6+ months experience supporting people with special needs (in any capacity), ideally child-focused experience
- 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 / Experience
- Experience working in special education, particularly with moderate to severe behaviors

- Experience with personal care tasks, like diapering and toileting
- Experience handling unexpected behaviour, such as hitting and biting
- Comfortable with eloping

- Experience with behaviour strategies and methodologies
- Experience in collecting data and following BI plan
- Associate's degree or higher (obtained in the US or US equivalency check completed)
- Pro-Act training
- Certification in CPR and First Aid
Salary
Pay: $22 - $24.50 per hour, paid weekly.

Schedule:

Monday to Friday, within hours of 7:30 am - 3:00/4:30 pm (no weekend work)
Benefits:
- Paid weekly
- 401K (certain eligibility criteria)
- Long-term employment opportunities within the District
Why Zen
With Zen Educate, you're part of a team that values your experience and supports your success. From your first conversation to your first day in class, we're here to make sure you feel prepared, confident, and valued.
About Zen
Zen Educate helps schools hire dedicated paraprofessionals and teaching assistants, creating smart, timely matches that support students with special education needs and strengthen school communities.
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