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Emotional Support Paraprofessional Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ESS Paraprofessional

Calhoun, GA · On-site

$13.25 - $17.25/hr

Support / Paraprofessional Staff/Paraprofessional (Special Education) Date Posted: 12/19/2025 ... Assists students physically with personal needs, physical needs, and emotional support. * Note: A ...

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Emotional Support Paraprofessional information

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$8

$16

$24

How much do emotional support paraprofessional jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for emotional support paraprofessional in the United States is $16.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an emotional support paraprofessional?

Emotional Support Paraprofessionals are educational professionals who assist students with emotional or behavioral challenges in school settings. They work closely with teachers, counselors, and special education staff to provide individualized support, helping students develop coping skills, stay engaged in learning, and manage their emotions or behaviors. Their role may include assisting with classroom activities, implementing behavior intervention plans, and offering one-on-one or small group support. Emotional Support Paraprofessionals play a crucial part in creating a safe, supportive environment that enables students to succeed academically and socially.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an emotional support paraprofessional?

To thrive as an Emotional Support Paraprofessional, you need a background in education or psychology, experience working with children with emotional or behavioral challenges, and often a paraprofessional certification. Familiarity with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), behavior management systems, and data tracking tools is typically required. Patience, empathy, strong communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills in this position. These skills and qualities are crucial for supporting student growth, fostering a safe learning environment, and effectively collaborating with teachers and specialists.

What challenges do emotional support paraprofessionals face when working with students, and how can they address them?

Emotional Support Paraprofessionals often encounter challenges such as managing students' behavioral outbursts, supporting students with varying emotional needs, and maintaining consistent communication with teachers and therapists. To effectively address these challenges, paraprofessionals utilize de-escalation techniques, build strong rapport with students, and collaborate closely with the multidisciplinary team to develop and follow individualized support plans. Ongoing professional development and regular feedback from supervisors also help them adapt to students' evolving needs and provide the best support possible.

What is the difference between Emotional Support Paraprofessional vs Mental Health Technician?

AspectEmotional Support ParaprofessionalMental Health Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification may be preferredHigh school diploma; some roles require certification or training
Work EnvironmentResidential facilities, schools, community programsHospitals, mental health clinics, residential treatment centers
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, schools, community agenciesHospitals, mental health facilities, clinics
Job FocusProviding emotional support, companionship, and basic assistanceMonitoring patients, assisting with daily activities, supporting treatment plans

While both roles support individuals with mental health needs, Emotional Support Paraprofessionals primarily offer emotional companionship and basic assistance, often in community or educational settings. Mental Health Technicians typically work in clinical environments, assisting with patient care and treatment. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and employer expectations.

What cities are hiring for Emotional Support Paraprofessional jobs?

Cities with the most Emotional Support Paraprofessional job openings:

What states have the most Emotional Support Paraprofessional jobs?

States with the most job openings for Emotional Support Paraprofessional jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Emotional Support Paraprofessional jobs?

For Emotional Support Paraprofessional jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Emotional Support Paraprofessional job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,266 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Program Management Support Paraprofessional - Multicategorical/SLD (LCR)

Bloomington, MN • On-site

Bloomington Public Schools
Education Programs Administration • 11 - 50 employees

$23.60/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Bloomington Public Schools (Minnesota) rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Position Type:
Special Education Paraprofessionals/Paraprofessional - Sp Ed
Date Posted:
6/29/2026
Location:
Valley View Elementary School
Date Available:
08/25/2026
Closing Date:
Until Filled
Position Title:
Program Management Support Paraprofessional (Multicategorical/SLD) Long Call Reserve
Location:
Valley View Elementary
Dates:
August 25, 2026 - December 18, 2026
Salary:
Substitute Paraprofessional rate: Class III, Step 3 $23.60 per hour
Hours:
6.1 hours per day
5 days per week
180 days per year
Required Education:
  • High School Diploma
  • 60 credits post-secondary education or a passing score on the Para Pro Exam
  • PCA Certification (or the ability to obtain)

Physical Requirements:
  • Must have the ability to pass a pre-work physical exam including the following requirements:
  • Must have ability to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Must have ability to push/pull equipment including standers, wheelchairs, etc
  • Must have ability to repetitively reach overhead
  • Must have ability to transfer to/from floor
  • Must have ability to kneel

Required Experience:
Successful experiences working with speical education students in an educational setting preferred.
Responsibilities:
  • Work collaboratively with licensed and other staff to assist students with academic, behavioral/social/emotional, instruction, and daily living skills.
  • Assist in implementation of assigned tasks including instruction and assisting students academically
  • Monitor student's skills of independence and implementation of classroom of individual behavior management programs
  • Assist with daily living activities
  • Communicate student's progress with case managers

APPLICATION DEADLINE: ASAP. Applications will be reviewed after five business days
Submit online application, cover letter, and resume by clicking "Apply Now"

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