Teaching Assistant

Position: Teaching Assistant - Immediate Start
Limited Positions - Now hiring for the 2025–2026 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.
This Teaching Assistant role provides a dynamic opportunity to contribute to the instructional environment, assisting with lesson preparation, classroom management, and providing tailored support to meet diverse student needs.
Responsibilities:
- Assisting licensed staff in the classroom
- Aid students in meeting their individualized education plan (IEP)
- Maintain a classroom environment that is conducive to learning
- Work with individuals and/or small groups when activities and assignments are presented
- Provide support for students in crisis
- Utilize a variety of learning methods to enhance the student's learning experiences and support them as needed
- Celebrate the students you're working with
- Support students with elements of personal care (feeding, toileting, etc.)

Required Qualifications:

- 60 credits, Associates Degree, obtained a passing score on an appropriate ADE assessment, or Para Pro/Praxis Exam
- 1+ years experience working with children with special needs
- 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:

- Educator License with Stipulations (ELS) with a Paraprofessional (PARA) endorsement from the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE)
- Previous experience working in special education
- Behavioral Technician or PCA experience
- Crisis prevention (CPI) training
- CPR certification
Salary
Pay: $20 per hour, paid weekly

Schedule:

Minimum two days throughout Monday to Friday, within hours of 7:30 am - 3:00/4:30 pm (no weekend work).
Benefits:
- Weekly Direct Deposit
- Potential to qualify for health coverage and 401(k) participation, subject to role and eligibility criteria.
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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