Instructional Assistant - Hiring Now

Secure Your Role for the 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 connects schools with passionate, high-quality educators through a simple and transparent hiring process. We partner with public and charter schools to help them find the right staff, while making it easier for educators to discover roles that fit their skills, preferences, and career goals. Our mission is to create better outcomes for students by supporting the educators who make it happen, through smarter matching, fairer pay, and ongoing support.

In this essential Teacher Aide position, you will be a key support figure in the classroom, assisting with instructional preparation, student supervision during various activities, and contributing to overall classroom management.

We are seeking Paraprofessionals to join us supporting students.
In this role positively contributing to the lives of children in special education by supporting licensed teachers with academic adaptations, self-care, and social/behavioral 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:
Education:

• 72 quarter college credits or higher, OR one of the following:
• A high school diploma and a Washington State Paraeducator Certificate
• A high school diploma and a Passing score on one of 3 Washington approved assessments:

ETS Parapro score of at least 455
Pearson Paraprofessional assessment score of at least 220
The Master Teacher Inc Paraeducator Online Training Program grade of at least 65%
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.
• Prior experience, personal or professional, assisting people with special needs or disabilities.

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:

• Previous experience working in special education
• Behavioral Technician or PCA experience
• Crisis prevention (CPI) training
• CPR certification

Salary
Pay: $25- $28 per hour, paid weekly.
Schedule: Minimum 5 days throughout Monday to Friday, within hours of 7:30 - 3:00/4:30 pm.

Benefits:
Weekly Direct Deposit
Potential to qualify for health coverage and 401(k) participation, subject to role and eligibility criteria.

Don't wait! Apply and connect with a recruiter today and take the first step toward your future in education.

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