Para Educator

Get Set for the 2025-2026 School Year!

Step into full-time paraprofessional and classroom aide roles 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.

Don’t wait! Connect with a recruiter today and take the first step toward your future in education.

As a Para Educator, you'll play a crucial role in supporting classroom teachers by working with students one-on-one or in small groups to create a meaningful academic experience.

This is your chance to make a significant impact, helping students grow and develop in a supportive, structured environment.

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 and de-escalate behaviors
• Work with individuals and / or small groups when activities and assignments are presented
• Provides support for students in crisis
• Utilize a variety of learning methods to enhance the student's learning experiences and support them as needed

Required Qualifications

High school diploma obtained in the United States

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

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

Associate's degree or higher (obtained in the US or US equivalency check completed)

Pro-Act training

Certification in CPR and First Aid

Salary

Pay : $22 - $24.50 per hour, paid weekly.

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

Benefits :

Paid weekly

401K (certain eligibility criteria)

Long-term employment opportunities within the District

Why Zen

Succeed and grow with confidence. Zen Educate offers unwavering support throughout your entire experience – from initial application to classroom success and continued professional development, ensuring you always have the backup you need.

About Zen

At Zen Educate, our mission is simple : to support schools by connecting them with dedicated, high-quality education professionals. We believe in making the hiring process easier for educators and creating better outcomes for students across the Minneapolis–Saint Paul region.

Ref : SD-NHQ-TA-October2025-111