Teaching Assistant
Listed on 2026-01-14
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Education / Teaching
Special Needs / Learning Disabilities, Child Development/Support, School Counselor, Elementary School
Location: East Irvine
Teaching Assistant - Immediate Start at Zen Educate summary:
This role involves supporting students with special education needs in classroom settings by assisting with behavioral interventions, individualized support, and personal care. The Teaching Assistant works closely with teachers, parents, and staff to foster an inclusive learning environment and promote student development. The position requires a high school diploma, experience with special education, and strong communication skills, offering a full-time schedule and benefits such as paid sick leave and 401K.
Start the School Year Strong! - Now hiring for the 2025–2026 school year.
Step into a full-time paraprofessional or classroom support staff role focused on special education and support students with special needs in real classroom settings. 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, start your journey in education now, connect with a recruiter to find your 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:
-Behavioral Support:
Implement 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.
Required Qualifications /
Experience:
-High School Diploma
-Experience supporting individuals with Special Educational Needs
-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:
-Experience in Special Education, particularly with moderate to severe behaviors, ABA Therapy, Behaviour Technician Experience or AAC Devices
-Knowledge of behavioral intervention strategies
-CPR and First Aid
-CPI or Pro Act Training
Salary
Pay: $20 - $23 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.
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 helps schools hire dedicated paraprofessionals and teaching assistants, creating smart, timely matches that support students with special education needs and strengthen school communities.
-NHQ-TA-January
Keywords:
Teaching Assistant, Special Education Support, Behavior Intervention, Classroom Assistance, Paraprofessional, Student Support, Individualized Education Plans, Special Needs, Inclusive Education, Behavioral Support
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