Special Education Aide - Start

Start the school year strong. 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.

About Zen Educate

At Zen Educate, we make it easier for educators to find roles that truly fit. We connect you with schools that match your experience, preferences, and goals, so you can focus on teaching, not job searching. By partnering closely with schools and districts, we create better matches, offer fair pay, and support you throughout your journey, helping you build a career that works for you.

As a Special Education Aide, you'll work closely with classroom teachers to support K-12 students with autism and behavioral needs. You'll provide one-on-one and small group assistance, helping implement behavior plans and create a positive, structured learning environment where every student can thrive.

Please note this role is in Poway!

Key Responsibilities

Behavioral Support: Implement and follow Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) or Individualized Education Programs (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 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.

Note Taking: Take notes and record data on student progress.

Required Qualifications:

Demonstrated hands-on experience safely managing and de-escalating SEVERE behavioural challenges (including but not limited to self-injurious behavior, elopement, physical aggression toward staff/peers).

ABA training, at least 10 months of behavior tech/interventionist experience, or RBT certification.

Experience supporting individuals with Special Educational Needs.

Experience with elopement, nonverbal, and/or aggressive behaviours.

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:

3 months of experience de-escalating SEVERE behaviours (including self-injurious behaviour, elopement & physical aggression towards staff/peers).

Experience in Special Education, particularly with moderate to severe behaviours, ABA Therapy, Behaviour Technician Experience, or AAC Devices.

Knowledge of behavioral intervention strategies.

CPR and First Aid certification.

ProAct Training.

Salary

Pay: $22.00 - $26 per hour

Schedule: Monday to Friday, within hours of 7:30 am - 3:00/4:30 pm (no weekend work).

Benefits and other offerings

Weekly pay by direct deposit, with paper check available on request

Professional development, including in-app training, paid role-specific certifications where applicable, and additional development opportunities depending on role and location

Paid sick leave in accordance with applicable state and local law

Medical, dental, and vision insurance available when eligibility requirements are met, which includes working more than 1,560 hours in a 12 month period.

401(k) retirement plan with no employer match available when eligibility requirements are met, which includes working more than 1,000 hours in a 12 month period or more than 500 hours/year in a 24 month period.

Don't wait, start your journey in education now, connect with a recruiter to find your perfect role.

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