1

Special Ed Paraprofessional Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Showing results 41-60

Special Ed Paraprofessional information

See salary details

$9

$17

$26

How much do special ed paraprofessional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for special ed paraprofessional in the United States is $17.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $20.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a special ed paraprofessional?

To thrive as a Special Ed Paraprofessional, you generally need experience or coursework in special education, a high school diploma or associate degree, and sometimes paraprofessional certification. Familiarity with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), assistive technology, and classroom management software is typically important. Patience, empathy, and strong communication skills help build trust and effectively support students with diverse needs. These skills and qualities ensure students receive appropriate academic and behavioral support, contributing to their success in inclusive learning environments.

Do you need a degree to be a special education paraprofessional?

A degree is not always required to become a special education paraprofessional, but many districts prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent. Some positions may require or prefer postsecondary coursework, certification, or paraprofessional training, especially when working with students with special needs. Requirements can vary by school district or state regulations.

What is a special ed paraprofessional?

A Special Ed Paraprofessional is an educational support staff member who works under the supervision of a certified special education teacher to assist students with disabilities. Their responsibilities may include providing one-on-one or small group instruction, supporting students with physical or behavioral needs, helping with classroom management, and adapting materials for individual learning requirements. They play a critical role in ensuring that students with special needs receive the support necessary to succeed in an inclusive educational environment.

What are some common challenges special ed paraprofessionals face when supporting students with diverse needs, and how can they effectively address them?

Special Ed Paraprofessionals often encounter challenges such as managing varying behavioral needs, adapting instructional strategies for different learning styles, and balancing support among multiple students. Effective communication with teachers, ongoing training, and collaboration with related service providers are key to overcoming these challenges. Building strong relationships with students and remaining flexible in approach also help paraprofessionals provide individualized support and ensure a positive learning environment.

What is the difference between Special Ed Paraprofessional vs Classroom Aide?

AspectSpecial Ed ParaprofessionalClassroom Aide
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require additional certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent
Work EnvironmentSpecial education classrooms, supporting students with disabilitiesGeneral education classrooms, assisting teachers and students
Employer & IndustrySchools, districts, special education programsSchools, educational settings
Common Search/ComparisonSpecial Ed Paraprofessional vs Classroom Aide

The main difference between a Special Ed Paraprofessional and a Classroom Aide lies in their roles and responsibilities. Special Ed Paraprofessionals typically work specifically in special education settings, supporting students with disabilities and often requiring additional certifications. Classroom Aides assist in general education classrooms, helping teachers manage daily activities. Both roles are vital in educational environments, but Special Ed Paraprofessionals usually have a more specialized focus on supporting students with special needs.

More about Special Ed Paraprofessional jobs
What cities are hiring for Special Ed Paraprofessional jobs? Cities with the most Special Ed Paraprofessional job openings:
What states have the most Special Ed Paraprofessional jobs? States with the most job openings for Special Ed Paraprofessional jobs include:
Infographic showing various Special Ed Paraprofessional job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,173 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

High Needs/Resource Special Ed Paraprofessional at Lake Middle School

South Washington County Schools

Cottage Grove, MN • On-site

$22.70/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
Paraprofessional/High Needs/Resource Special Ed
Date Posted:
6/5/2026
Location:
Lake Middle School
Date Available:
09/02/2026
Closing Date:
Open until filled
Position
High Needs/Resource Special Ed Paraprofessional
Location
Lake Middle School
Hours per Day
Start and End Times
6 hours per day
8:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. with - hour unpaid lunch
Starting Base Pay
$22.70 per hour
Anticipated Start Date
September 2, 2026
Available for Application
June 5, 2026 - June 10, 2026 or until filled
Highly Qualified Information
This position is eligible for an additional $.50 per hour once Highly Qualified status is achieved (2 or 4 year degree, OR 60 semester credits OR successful completion of the Para Pro which is offered by the district regularly). External candidates DO NOT need to meet this criteria until after they are hired but are required to meet the requirement no later than May 31st.
INTERNAL CANDIDATES MUST MEET THIS CRITERIA AT THE TIME THEIR APPLICATION IS SUBMITTED.
Classification
Program
BENEFITS:
SoWashCo Schools offers a comprehensive benefits program designed to support our employees. Our benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as life insurance, supplemental life insurance, dependent life insurance, and long-term disability coverage. We also offer voluntary plans such as accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity, and identity protection, along with flexible spending accounts, an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and retirement plans. These benefits reflect our commitment to supporting your health and well-being.
Visit our benefits page for more detailed information.
Position follows school calendar with the option to work in other summer paraprofessional positions if interested.
POSITION SUMMARY:
This position is responsible for providing instructional and/or behavioral support to special education students in high needs programs under the direction of a licensed special education teacher.
PRIMARY JOB FUNCTIONS:
  1. Consult daily with licensed special education teacher regarding daily responsibilities.
  2. Assist special education teacher in implementing district policies and procedures, including but not limited to emergency procedures, building orientation, confidentiality, student vulnerability, data collection, and classroom management as directed.
  3. Assist special education students in academic areas such as reading, writing or math. This includes implementing curriculum, adapting instructional strategies and materials according to the needs of the student under the direction of a licensed teacher.
  4. Work with students that may have learning challenges, behavioral issues, and/or need physical support. It may be necessary to assist students with toileting, eating, transitioning to classes, lockers, lunch/recess, buses, physical transfers; and other activities of daily living.
  5. Accept work direction willingly, shift work assignments and accept changing and new job assignments as needed.
  6. Support licensed teacher in utilizing a variety of behavioral management techniques, including redirection and restraints if necessary throughout the day. Supervise students during cooling off time, monitor and document behavior, and implement positive behavior support.
  7. Collect and record student data adhering to the supervising Special Education teacher's directions and requirements. Communicates this information to licensed teacher(s) and other staff connected to that student as identified by supervising teacher.
  8. Provide services to student as directed by licensed teacher in a manner that demonstrates knowledge of, and a positive respect for, the distinctions between the roles and responsibilities of the teacher, paraprofessional and other staff.
  9. Understand and maintain boundaries and confidentiality with students, families, and staff.
  10. Maintain a high level of fairness, confidentiality, respect and equity for all students, staff and families.
  11. Other duties as assigned.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS (EDUCATION, LICENSE, EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES):
Required:
  1. High school diploma or equivalent.
  2. Ability to meet District 833 Highly Qualified requirements.
  3. Competencies as required by State of Minnesota, Federal government, and/or District 833.
  4. Possess the skills and ability to reinforce math, reading, and writing skills in elementary and/or secondary classrooms.
  5. Ability to lift and transfer up to 50 pounds.
  6. Proven teamwork, confidentiality, and communication skills.
  7. Models appropriate behavior, neat appearance, and proper grammar usage for all students. Helps provide a positive learning environment.
  8. Self-directed and able to organize small group reading and math activities with resources and assessments provided.
  9. Ability to perform routine computer functions, including email, Internet navigation and Microsoft Word.
  10. Ability to pass Paraprofessional fitness for duty tests.
  11. Prompt, regular and reliable attendance.
  12. Actively participates in district-sponsored training when offered.
  13. Communicates with students, parents, co-workers, supervisors, and the community in a positive and responsive way that is consistently welcoming and enhances effective work relationships.
  14. Demonstrates an appreciation of diversity in all interactions and job functions.

Desired:
  1. Trained in and experience utilizing behavioral management techniques.
  2. Demonstrates knowledge of basic academics and behavior characteristics of elementary and/or secondary students.
  3. Certification in first aid and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation).
  4. Previous experience working with students with disabilities and knowledge of disabilities.
  5. Knowledge of the terminology related to the services and support of special education students.
  6. Previous experience utilizing behavioral management techniques.
  7. Demonstrates good organizational and time management skills.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER