Cda Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Current paras use the internal application process to apply.

All other current district employees (not paras), or external applicants apply online by completing the external application.

INTERNAL APPLICANTS: OPEN 06/08/2026 THRU 06/12/2026 @ 4PM

EXTERNAL APPLICANTS (if no internal applicants): OPEN UNTIL FILLED

Wages: New Hires: Entry level rate $16.39/hr Gen Education & $16.00/hr + $ 4.00 diff pay for Special Education. 

Current employees in the bargaining unit: Please refer to the salary schedule established by the applicable bargaining group. This position is a split assignment between Gen Ed and Special Ed. Pay assignment will be 3.00-hour Gen Ed($16.39/hr.) and 3.50 hours Special Ed ($16.00 + $4.00) This special education position meets the $4.00 Special Education Differential pay that is outlined in the Memorandum of Agreement between DCSD and the Davenport Association of Para Educators.

Duties & Responsibilities: (Essential Functions of Position, Major Responsibilities, Summary of Key Duties, Special Assignments, Relationships)

• Provide services for special education students as needed in the general education or Special Education setting.
• Work with students exhibiting moderate to severe Behavior Disabilities and learning difficulties; including students diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Must accept direction from general and special education teachers as well as support staff.
• Minimum of CDA Certificate OR AA Degree or higher in Early Childhood field (QPPS/Head Start Requirements) OR successfully complete the Iowa Paraprofessional classes and obtain the Iowa Paraprofessional Certificate within two years of hire date. If associate degree or higher is in related field must be willing to complete CDA requirements or requirements that are equivalent to a CDA within a timeframe determined at hire.
• All employees working with/for Special Education students will be required to pass the Medicaid Fraud background check, prior to hire, successfully applying, and/or transferring to a special education position. This check is run several times a year. If at any time your name appears on the Medicaid Fraud listing, you will be notified and may be removed from your current position.
• Assist with children managing behavior and physical disabilities
• Assist with daily activities and routine care of the students
• Work collaboratively with teacher in using developmentally appropriate practices
• Assist teacher in monitoring students' progress by keeping necessary records and giving feedback as requested
• Follow teacher direction for instruction
• Use positive reinforcement techniques and appropriate guidance techniques to assist in managing development behavior throughout the school routine including transition times, activities, redirection, and playground assistance.
• Help children build internal control
• Engage in on-going staff development
• Model flexibility in duties as the needs of students change
• Assist in arrival and departure of students
• Capable of lifting up to 50 lbs. and must be willing to complete diapering
• Model enthusiasm and patience
• Ability to work some flexible hours to meet operational needs of early learning center
• Per DHS Guidelines this position requires a background check, fingerprinting and completed Physical every two (2) years.
• Must complete the required DHS Training hours each year.
• Must complete the Infant/Child/Adult CPR and First Aid within 6 months of hire date and remain current
• Must complete Universal Precaution and Exposure training prior to start date and remain current
• Meet NAEYC, QPPS, DHS and Head Start Performance Standards
• Must complete or show proof of DHS Essentials training within 90 days of hire
• Successful candidate must possess strong inter-personal skills with a proven record of building rapport with culturally diverse students and their families to ensure that each child reaches his/her full potential.
• Good attendance and punctuality are a must to ensure that the duties and responsibilities of the job are performed successfully.
• Must be willing to support and implement Davenport's multi-tiered system of supports for both behavior and academics
• Possible Therapy dog on school premises during the school day
• Must meet NAEYC requirement or willing to complete NAEYC requirements in a timeframe determined at hire.
• Must hold a Mandatory Child and Dependent Adult Abuse Reporter Certificate prior to start date and remain current
• Other duties as assigned

Physical Requirements of Position: (HBV Yes No)

• Ability to withstand weather for outside activities
• Must be able to lift, pull and push 50 lbs.
• Must be able to sit and kneel on the floor

Special Qualification Desired: (Personal Qualities, Education, Skills Needed, Experience, Etc.)

• Positive attitude toward special needs children
• Ability to work collaboratively with teacher and staff
• Good Communication and organizational skills
• Patient, compassionate and sensitive individual willing to work with a diverse population
• Recognition of the need for confidentiality with respect to children's and parent's right to privacy
• Friendly and caring