Teacher Aide - Immediate Start - Now Hiring

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.

The Teacher Aide provides direct help to classroom teachers, contributing to an engaging learning environment. Key responsibilities include offering academic and behavioral support to K-12 students requiring additional assistance, helping maintain a structured classroom, and employing various methods to enrich student learning experiences. You will also support students with personal care or hygiene as needed.

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 ParaPro/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
When you work with Zen Educate, you’re never on your own. Our team offers continuous support, from your first application to your first day in the classroom and beyond, to help you succeed and grow in your role.

About Zen
Zen Educate connects schools with passionate, qualified educators through a clear and efficient process. Our mission is to make hiring fairer and simpler for both teachers and schools.

Ref: CHI-HQ-TA-March2026-103