Special Education Paraprofessional - Immediate Start

Company: Zen Educate
Location: Akron
Posted on: March 19, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Limited Positions - Now hiring for the 2025–2026 school year. Your Opportunity to Make a Difference and Inspire Starts Now. We’re hiring paraprofessionals and classroom support staff for immediate hire to work with students who need specialized support. These roles are focused on SPED classrooms and are ideal for those looking to grow their skills and make a meaningful impact all year long. These roles support students with a range of special education needs, including mild, moderate, and severe needs. Ready to get started? Connect with a recruiter today to feel the difference you can make. Make a profound impact as a Special Education Paraprofessional by helping students overcome challenges and reach their full potential, providing patient and tailored assistance according to their unique needs and learning styles. Key Responsibilities - Assist licensed staff in the classroom by helping implement academic adaptations and individualized education plans (IEPs). - Work with students individually or in small groups to support their self-care and social/behavioral needs. - Maintain a classroom environment that is safe and conducive to learning. - Provide timely support for students in crisis situations. - Utilize a variety of learning methods to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. Must-Have Qualifications Required Qualifications - Hold an Associate Degree or higher from a US-accredited college or university OR hold a high school diploma plus a passed ParaPro Assessment, with a qualifying score of at least 456. - 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 - Valid Educational Aide Permit - 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 - Certification in CPR and First Aid Salary Pay: $16 - $19 per hour, paid weekly. Schedule: 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 Ready to get started? Connect with a recruiter today to explore open opportunities. About Zen Zen Educate partners with public and charter schools across various school districts to build stronger school communities. Our team is committed to supporting educators with personalized job matches and ongoing mentorship at every step. 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. Ref: CLE_TA_ZA

Keywords: Zen Educate, Birmingham , Special Education Paraprofessional - Immediate Start, Education / Teaching , Akron, Alabama