Teaching Assistant - Immediate Start

Company: Zen Educate
Location: Cleveland
Posted on: March 17, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Start the School Year Strong! - Now hiring for the 2025–2026 school year. 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. These roles support students with a range of special education needs, including mild, moderate, and severe needs. Talk to a recruiter today and see how we can help you find the perfect role. Become a Teaching Assistant and play a key role in student development, assisting with the delivery of educational programs, guiding students through activities, and helping to monitor their progress and engagement. 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/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. Why Zen Working with Zen Educate means more than just finding a job, it’s about building a career. We help you find roles that fit your experience today while preparing you for even greater opportunities tomorrow. 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. Ref: CLE-HQ-TA-March2026-105

Keywords: Zen Educate, Saint Clair Shores , Teaching Assistant - Immediate Start, Education / Teaching , Cleveland, Michigan