Teaching Assistant - Immediate Start

Company: Zen Educate
Location: Plymouth
Posted on: February 8, 2026

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. As a Teaching Assistant, you'll actively support lead teachers in delivering engaging lessons, working with students individually or in small groups to reinforce learning concepts and foster academic progress. 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. 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: $17-18/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 We believe educators deserve clarity and respect at every step. Zen Educate offers a transparent, streamlined hiring process, fair pay, and ongoing support so you can focus on teaching and making a meaningful impact in classrooms 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: DET-NHQ-TA-February2026-105

Keywords: Zen Educate, Lansing , Teaching Assistant - Immediate Start, Education / Teaching , Plymouth, Michigan