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Instructional Paraprofessional Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Instructional Paraprofessional

Whippany, NJ · On-site

$15.25 - $19.75/hr

We are looking for an Instructional Paraprofessional for the 2026-2027 School Year! As a Paraprofessional, you will provide additional support in the Special Education classroom by working with ...

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Instructional Paraprofessional information

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$9

$16

$25

How much do instructional paraprofessional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for instructional paraprofessional in the United States is $16.97, 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 the difference between Instructional Paraprofessional vs Teacher Assistant?

AspectInstructional ParaprofessionalTeacher Assistant
Required credentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require additional certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; often similar requirements
Work environmentAssist in classrooms, support students with disabilities, work under supervisionAssist teachers in classroom activities, supervise students, support lesson plans
Employer and industry usagePublic and private schools, special education settingsPrimarily in K-12 schools, often interchangeable with paraprofessional roles

Instructional Paraprofessionals and Teacher Assistants often perform similar duties in educational settings, supporting teachers and students. The main differences lie in specific job titles used by employers and slight variations in certifications required. Both roles are vital in classrooms, especially in special education, and often overlap in responsibilities.

What are some typical challenges instructional paraprofessionals face when supporting diverse learners in the classroom?

Instructional Paraprofessionals often work with students who have varying academic abilities, learning styles, and behavioral needs. A common challenge is adapting instructional strategies to meet individual student needs while maintaining classroom routines and supporting the lead teacher. Effective communication and flexibility are essential, as paraprofessionals may need to quickly shift between tasks, provide one-on-one assistance, and facilitate small group activities. Building rapport with students and collaborating closely with teachers and support staff are key to overcoming these challenges and fostering a positive learning environment.

What is an instructional paraprofessional?

Instructional paraprofessionals, sometimes called teacher aides or assistants, are educational workers who support teachers in the classroom. They help with tasks such as preparing instructional materials, working with small groups or individual students, and managing classroom activities. Paraprofessionals often provide extra help to students with special needs or those who require additional academic support. Their role is crucial in creating an effective learning environment and ensuring all students receive the attention they need.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an instructional paraprofessional?

To thrive as an Instructional Paraprofessional, you need a solid understanding of educational practices, basic instructional strategies, and typically a high school diploma or associate's degree. Familiarity with classroom technology, learning management systems, and specialized educational software is often required. Patience, strong communication, and the ability to build rapport with students and teachers are standout soft skills in this role. These skills are vital for effectively supporting student learning, assisting teachers, and promoting a positive and inclusive classroom environment.
What cities are hiring for Instructional Paraprofessional jobs? Cities with the most Instructional Paraprofessional job openings:
What states have the most Instructional Paraprofessional jobs? States with the most job openings for Instructional Paraprofessional jobs include:
Infographic showing various Instructional Paraprofessional job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 57% Physical, and 43% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,294 per year, or $17 per hour.

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Fulton County Schools rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

218th of 627 rated elementary and secondary schools


Job description

Summary
Paraprofessionals may serve in a classroom or media center. Incumbents in the Paraprofessional position are responsible for providing assistance to students and staff as indicated in the duties below related the individual's assignment
Essential Duties

Instructional Paraprofessional

  • Assists the teacher in the preparation of educational materials for students
  • Works individually with students and/or in small groups to help reinforce learning objectives
  • Assists with all aspects of the daily routine, including distributing and collecting supplies, keeping attendance records, and grading quizzes as assigned
  • Participates in lunchroom, recess, hall-monitoring, and bus duties
  • Assists with preparing and maintaining bulletin boards and other learning centers areas for instruction

Media Paraprofessional

  • Monitors student use of the library and assists students with instructional tasks
  • Assists students and teachers in locating and using media/technology resources such as print/non-print materials, audiovisual/video materials, computerized information databases, computer-based learning programs and related media/technology equipment
  • Assists with inventory of all media center materials, processing of new materials, preparation of displays, bulletin boards, exhibits and media productions
  • Assists in circulation and collection of student mobile devices
  • Generate and maintain reports on overdue and lost books, as well as fines associated with these materials
  • Staffs circulation desk; Checks media center materials in and out to students and teachers using Destiny Library Manager Software 
  • Direct, if necessary, student assistants in assigned duties
  • Maintain orderly and attractive arrangement of media center materials, equipment, and furnishings
  • Participates in required additional training related to the Dual Immersion Model if applicable
  • Performs other duties as assigned by the appropriate administrator
Required Education
High School Diploma or GED required
Must pass the GACE para assessment; in lieu of the GACE Assessment and have 60 semester hours or 90 quarter hours of a grade of C or better; hold an Associate's Degree or higher at a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution is acceptable
Certification/Licensure
Must be able to obtain Georgia PSC Paraprofessional Certificate
Experience Qualifications
0-1 year experience required
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities
  • Classroom experience and/or proven ability to work with children preferred
  • Must be able to follow written and oral instructions quickly and accurately
  • Must be able to handle sensitive and confidential information
  • Excellent communication skills both written and verbal both with students and adults
  • Excellent organizational skills and flexibility
  • Technology proficiency (computers, AV, office equipment, etc) (Media Paras)
  • Library organization and filing procedure knowledge (ability to alphabetize to three letters and order numerically to the ten-thousandths place) (Media Paras)
  • If working as a Paraprofessional in the Dual Immersion program, should exhibit proficiency in spoken and written language of instruction
Working Conditions
  • Classroom environment and/or Media Center
Physical Demands
  • Ability to lift and carry 30-50 pounds with assistance
  • Ability to push or pull a maximum of 50 pounds
  • May require lifting, bending kneeling, reaching, stooping or crouching
  • Requires ability to move and control an adult-sized wheelchair
  • Typically sitting, standing, walking

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