Teaching Assistant - Immediate Start

Company: Zen Educate
Location: Vista
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. This Teaching Assistant opportunity is perfect for individuals passionate about fostering student growth, offering hands-on experience in supporting classroom instruction, managing learning resources, and encouraging a positive academic 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 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: SD-NHQ-TA-March2026-105

Keywords: Zen Educate, El Cajon , Teaching Assistant - Immediate Start, Education / Teaching , Vista, California