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Educational Support Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Educational Support Specialist information

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$45

How much do educational support specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for educational support specialist in the United States is $24.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an educational support specialist?

An Educational Support Specialist is a professional who provides targeted assistance to students, teachers, or educational institutions to enhance learning outcomes. Their responsibilities often include helping students with disabilities or learning challenges, developing individualized education plans (IEPs), and supporting classroom teachers with strategies and resources. They may work in K-12 schools, colleges, or specialized educational programs, collaborating closely with educators, parents, and administrators to ensure every student receives the support they need. The role requires strong communication skills, empathy, and knowledge of educational best practices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an educational support specialist?

To thrive as an Educational Support Specialist, you need a solid understanding of educational principles, learning strategies, and often a degree in education, special education, or a related field. Familiarity with individualized education plans (IEPs), assistive technology, and learning management systems is typically required. Strong interpersonal communication, patience, and problem-solving abilities help you connect with students and collaborate effectively with teachers and families. These skills are crucial for providing tailored support and ensuring all students achieve their full academic potential.

What are some common challenges educational support specialists face when working with diverse student needs?

Educational Support Specialists often encounter a variety of learning styles, abilities, and backgrounds among students, which can make individualized support challenging. They must frequently adapt instructional strategies, collaborate with teachers, and communicate closely with families to ensure each student’s needs are met. Staying updated on best practices in special education and balancing caseloads are also common challenges. However, these experiences provide valuable opportunities for professional growth and deepen the specialist’s skills in personalized instruction and advocacy.

What is the difference between Educational Support Specialist vs Classroom Assistant?

AspectEducational Support SpecialistClassroom Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; some roles may require associate's degree or certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent
Work EnvironmentSchools, special education settings, or resource centersClassrooms, schools, or educational programs
Employer & Industry UsagePublic and private schools, special education programsPrimarily in schools supporting classroom activities
Common Search & ComparisonEducational Support Specialist vs Classroom Assistant

The main difference is that Educational Support Specialists often have specialized training or certifications and may handle more complex student needs, while Classroom Assistants typically support teachers with daily classroom tasks. Both roles work in educational settings but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

How to become an Educational Support Specialist?

To become an Educational Support Specialist, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in education, psychology, or a related field. Relevant skills include strong communication, patience, and knowledge of educational tools or accommodations; some positions may require certification or experience working with students with special needs.

What can an educational support specialist do?

An educational support specialist assists students by providing academic support, implementing individualized education plans, and collaborating with teachers and parents. They may work in classrooms, offer tutoring, and use tools like educational software to enhance learning outcomes.
More about Educational Support Specialist jobs

What cities are hiring for Educational Support Specialist jobs?

Cities with the most Educational Support Specialist job openings:

What states have the most Educational Support Specialist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Educational Support Specialist jobs include:

Infographic showing various Educational Support Specialist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,399 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY
The Educational Support Specialist is a dynamic and multi-faceted position responsible for 
supporting student placement, assisting in classroom instruction, and contributing to school-wide 
assistance efforts. The role involves serving as a substitute teacher, collaborating with faculty 
and staff, providing academic support, and participating in the coordination of educational 
services. The Educational Support Specialist will play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth 
functioning of various educational programs, fostering an inclusive learning environment, and 
supporting the academic growth of all students.






REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
?  Must have the authorization to work in the United States as defined by the Immigration Reform 
Act of 1986.
?  Valid ADE Substitute Certificate
?  Valid IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card for educators through The Arizona Department of Education.



KEY RESPONSIBILITIES, SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE:
?  Assume responsibility for classroom management and instruction in the absence of the primary 
teacher.
?  Deliver lesson plans effectively while maintaining a productive learning environment.
?  Provide individualized support for students as needed to ensure understanding of instructional 
materials.
?  Adapt teaching strategies to meet the diverse needs of students in various grade levels.
?  Assist in the placement of students in appropriate academic programs and resources based on 
academic performance and needs.
?  Collaborate with faculty, staff, and the Curriculum Director/Principal to monitor student 
progress and make recommendations for adjustments in placement.
?  Provide support for students requiring additional interventions or accommodations.
?  Serve as an active member of the School-Wide Assistance Team, working with educators and support 
staff to address student needs across multiple domains (academic, behavioral, social).
?  Help coordinate and implement individualized support plans for students requiring additional 
assistance.
?  Contribute to the development of school-wide initiatives aimed at improving student outcomes and 
fostering a positive learning environment.
?  Support classroom teachers in planning and implementing lessons, managing student behavior, and 
maintaining an organized classroom.
?  Assist in the preparation and delivery of instructional materials.
?  Collaborate with other school personnel, including counselors, special education staff, and 
administrators, to ensure comprehensive support for all students.
?  Assist in gathering and maintaining student data related to placement, academic progress, and 
interventions.
?  Provide input on student performance and other relevant information to the Curriculum Director 
and/or Principal for analysis and decision-making.
?  Assist in tracking the effectiveness of various educational strategies and interventions.
Position Type: Educational Support Specialist        Reports to: CIA Director Principal
Salary Schedule: Classified Certified              Location: District
Governing Board Approved: 5/13/2025





























?  Participate in professional development opportunities to enhance knowledge and skills relevant 
to supporting K-12 education.
?  Stay informed about best practices in education, including instructional strategies, student 
support services, and curriculum development.
?  Meet any additional specific job requirements as indicated by the supervisor.
?  Assist other personnel as may be required to support them in the completion of their work 
activities.
?  The school district reserves the right to amend this job description as necessary.






SKILL, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITY REQUIREMENTS:
SKILLS are required to perform multiple technical tasks with a potential need to upgrade skills to 
meet changing job conditions. Specific skills required to satisfactorily perform the functions of 
the job.
KNOWLEDGE is required to read technical information, compose a variety of documents, and/or 
facilitate group discussions; and solve practical problems. Specific knowledge is required to 
satisfactorily perform the functions of the job.





ABILITY is required to gather, collate, and/or classify data; and consider a wide variety of 
factors. Flexibility is required to work with others in a variety of circumstances; work with data 
utilizing defined but different processes. Ability is also required to work with a significant 
diversity of individuals and/or groups; work with a variety of data; and utilize a variety of types 
of job-related equipment. In working with others, problem solving is required to identify issues 
and create action plans. Problem solving with data requires analysis based on organizational 
objectives; and problem solving with equipment is significant.
Specific abilities required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include adapting to 
changing work priorities; communicating with diverse groups; meeting deadlines & schedules; setting 
priorities; working as part of a team; and working with constant & sustained interruptions.








PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
The physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an 
employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may 
be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The usual and 
customary methods of performing the job's functions require the following physical demands: 
lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling; climbing and balancing; stooping, kneeling, crouching, 
and significant fine finger dexterity.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
The working environment characteristics described are representative of those an employee 
encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be 
made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in 
the work environment is usually moderate.










This job description is intended to be representative of the work performed by employees in this 
position and is not all-inclusive. The omission of a specific duty or responsibility will not 
preclude it from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical extension of position 
responsibilities as defined by the supervisor.


Non-Discrimination Policy: The Sacaton Elementary School District #18 Governing Board is committed 
to a policy of nondiscrimination in relation to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, 
and disability. This policy will prevail in all matters concerning staff members, students, the 
public, educational programs and services, and individuals with whom the Governing Board does 
business.