Instructional Assistant - Immediate Start

Company: Zen Educate
Location: Westmont
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. Our Instructional Assistants are fundamental to a smoothly running classroom, providing practical support that allows teachers to focus on instruction, while also offering encouragement and guidance to students throughout the school day. 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. 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. Why Zen At Zen Educate, we take the time to understand your preferences, experience, and career goals, then match you with schools that fit your needs. Our personalized approach makes finding the right role faster, easier, and more rewarding. Ref: CHI TA ZA

Keywords: Zen Educate, DeKalb , Instructional Assistant - Immediate Start, Education / Teaching , Westmont, Illinois