1

Paraeducator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Paraeducator

Kent, WA · On-site

$28/hr

Paraeducator (PARA2) Location: Kent, WA Duration: 20 Weeks Shift: 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM Pay Rate: $28/hour We are seeking a dedicated Paraeducator (PARA2) for a 20-week contract assignment with Kent ...

Support Staff/Paraeducator Date Posted: 3/21/2025 Location: Center Woods Elementary School Join our amazing and dynamic school team as a Paraprofessional ! We are seeking enthusiastic, dedicated, and ...

0.4 Preschool Paraeducator

Nashua, NH · On-site

$18.94 - $26.27/hr

Instructional Paraeducator: Under the direction of the classroom teacher the Paraeducator assists in the implementation and reinforcement of the instructional curriculum, helps prepare and administer ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Paraeducator information

See salary details

$11

$21

$32

How much do paraeducator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for paraeducator in the United States is $21.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Paraeducator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Paraeducator, you need a solid understanding of instructional support techniques, basic educational principles, and often a high school diploma or relevant associate degree. Familiarity with classroom technology, learning management systems, and sometimes special education protocols or certifications is typically required. Patience, strong communication, and the ability to build rapport with students and teachers are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for providing effective support, enhancing student learning, and fostering an inclusive classroom environment.

What are paraeducators?

Paraeducators, also known as paraprofessionals or teacher’s aides, are educational workers who assist teachers in the classroom. They support students with academic, behavioral, and physical needs, often working one-on-one or in small groups. Paraeducators help implement lesson plans, supervise activities, and provide additional support to ensure all students can succeed. Their role is crucial in creating an inclusive and effective learning environment.

What is the difference between Paraeducator vs Teacher Assistant?

AspectParaeducatorTeacher Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationHigh school diploma; certification varies by state
Work EnvironmentAssist in classrooms, often under supervision of teachers, supporting students with special needs or general educationSupport teachers in classroom activities, often working directly with students
Employer & Industry UsagePublic and private schools, special education programsPublic and private schools, early childhood programs

Both roles support classroom activities and require similar credentials, but paraeducators often work more closely with students with special needs and may have additional certifications. Teacher assistants generally support teachers across various classroom tasks. The roles are similar in many settings, but paraeducators tend to have a broader scope in special education support.

How does a paraeducator typically support classroom teachers and students throughout the school day?

Paraeducators play a vital role by assisting classroom teachers with instructional support, classroom management, and individualized attention for students. They often work with small groups or one-on-one to reinforce lessons, help students with special needs, and adapt materials to accommodate diverse learning styles. Collaboration with teachers and other support staff is key, as paraeducators communicate regularly about student progress and challenges. Flexibility and strong interpersonal skills are essential, as daily tasks can vary based on classroom needs.

What Are Paraeducators?

A paraeducator is an instructional assistant in the classroom. As a paraeducator, your specific job duties vary by school and assignment. Responsibilities may include helping to prepare daily lesson plans, tutoring students one-on-one, working in the library or computer lab, and organizing parental involvement activities. Some paraeducators may also provide translation services for parents and students.

What cities are hiring for Paraeducator jobs? Cities with the most Paraeducator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Paraeducator jobs? The most popular types of Paraeducator jobs are:
What states have the most Paraeducator jobs? States with the most job openings for Paraeducator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Paraeducator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $44,486 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Elementary Paraeducator

Portsmouth School Department

Portsmouth, NH • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
Paraeducator
Date Posted:
1/20/2026
Location:
Dondero Elementary School
Paraeducator
Position Purpose
The role and assignments of a paraeducator are not defined by a particular student, setting or program, but rather by students' needs as determined by the multi-disciplinary team. While every attempt will be made to keep the assignments over the course of the school year, it may be necessary to change a paraeducator's original job assignment to another to meet the varying needs of the students in the district.
Essential Performance Responsibilities
The parapreducator primarily works in classrooms, libraries and computer labs assisting the teacher in reinforcement and enhancement of lessons. Paraeducators working with speacila education students are epeted to knowledgeableof each student's Individual Educational Plans (IEP).
Paraeducators are expected to attend all training sessions offered by the Portsmouth School Department that are specifically designed for them during the scheduled work times.
The Paraeducator May:
Independent of the teacher, the paraeductor may carry out instructional plans developed by a teacher, counselor or other professional staff. Many responsiblilites overlap from one area to another.
At any given time of day, a paraeducator may be asked to fulfill a variety of duties:
  • Individually or in small groups, provide instructional assistance, guiding additional priactice opportunities, re-teaching as developed and specified by the lead teacher or related servie staff
  • Monitor and redirect behavior, implement behavior plans
  • Assist the lead teacher in planning and implementing instructional activities (academic, behavioral or life skills)
  • Provide the special education teacher/staff with information and observations about general education assignments, activities and student participation and behavior, as well as any other pertinent information as it arises regarding the student
  • Supervise and monitor students as directed by lead teacher or building administrator
  • Willingly participates in skill and compentency trainings and in-services

One-to-One:
  • With training and under the supervision of the appropriate professional personnel, be willing to assist and manage behavior using using behavioral managment techniques such as TCI, CPI
  • Monitoring and reinforce student academic, behavioral or life skills performance follwing best practices in the classroom, school and/or community settings
  • Be used to supporting the integration of students with disabilities into regular classes by tutoring these students in regular class assignments, giving tests orally, implement assistive technology and providing other accommodations outlined in the students' IEPs
  • Document student progress as specified by the teacher and or therapist
  • Assist/monitor students on and off the bus
  • Reinforce or enhance learning of basic hyiege, or provide toileting, diapering and feeding assistance, if required by a specific job assignment and as trainied. While this is a specific responsibility of a one-to-one paraeducator, sursing staff will be available for support and assistance during extrem situations
  • With training and supervision by the appropriate certified personnel, my lift and transport students using appropriate equipment
  • Intervene with other students about inappropriate behavior, language or actions

Additional Duties
  • Assumes other responsibilities as specified by the Director of Pupil Services and Instruction, and the Superintendent of Schools.

Educational Qualifications:
High School Diploma or GED required and perferably:
  • Completed two years of full-time study at an institution of higher education; or
  • Obtained an associate's degree; or
  • Meets rigorous standards of quality and demonstrate through a formal assessment the knowledge of, and the ability to assist in, reading, writing, or mathematics

Experience Qualifications:
  • Experience with students with disabilities and behavioral challenges.
  • Dependable, organized, possess good communication skills and emotional maturity and sensitivity to the needs of students
  • Able to maintain confidentiality following the Family Education Right and Privacy Act (FERPA).
  • Able to maintain professional attitude with students, families and staff.
  • Able to work well with children.
  • Able to manage student behavior, given training and support.
  • Able to work as a member of a team
  • Able to use or learn technology
  • Willing to obtain additional training and attend staff development workshops

Travel Requirements
Travels to all school district buildings, city/state agencies and professional meetings as required.
Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards
Works in school building environments.
FLSA Status: Exempt
Pay Rate: Follow Negotiated Pay Rate (See Paraeducator's Agreement)