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Special Education Teacher Assistant Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Special Education Teacher

Bernalillo, NM

$48K - $63K/yr

Elementary Special Education Teacher Location: Bernalillo, NM Schedule: Full-Time Grade Levels: K-3rd Grade Setting: Elementary Position Details * Support a K-3rd grade special education caseload

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Special Education Teacher Assistant information

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How much do special education teacher assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for special education teacher assistant in Rio Rancho, NM is $17.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.04 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a special education teacher assistant?

Special Education Teacher Assistants are professionals who support special education teachers in providing instructional and behavioral support to students with disabilities. They help implement individualized education programs (IEPs), assist with classroom management, and provide one-on-one or small group instruction. These assistants may also help students with personal care needs, adapt learning materials, and foster an inclusive learning environment. Their role is vital in ensuring that students with special needs receive the personalized attention and support required to succeed academically and socially.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a special education teacher assistant?

To thrive as a Special Education Teacher Assistant, you need a background in child development or education, with many positions requiring an associate degree or completion of relevant coursework. Familiarity with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), adaptive learning tools, and classroom management systems is often necessary. Patience, strong communication, and empathy are essential soft skills for supporting students with diverse needs and collaborating with teachers. These skills and qualities are crucial for creating an inclusive, supportive learning environment and effectively addressing the unique challenges faced by students with disabilities.

What are the typical challenges a special education teacher assistant faces when supporting students with diverse needs?

Special Education Teacher Assistants often work with students who have a wide range of abilities, learning styles, and behavioral needs. One common challenge is adapting instructional strategies to meet individual education plans (IEPs) while maintaining classroom structure and supporting the lead teacher. Communication and patience are key, as you may need to de-escalate situations, assist with personal care tasks, or use specialized equipment. Collaboration with teachers, therapists, and families is essential for ensuring students receive consistent support to thrive both academically and socially.

What is the difference between Special Education Teacher Assistant vs Paraprofessional in Special Education?

AspectSpecial Education Teacher AssistantParaprofessional in Special Education
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent; often similar certification requirements
Work EnvironmentAssist in classrooms, support teachers, work directly with studentsSupport students with disabilities, often in classroom or therapy settings
Employer & IndustrySchools, educational programs, special education departmentsSchools, special education programs, therapy centers

Both roles involve supporting students with disabilities and working in educational settings. The main difference lies in job titles used by employers; 'Special Education Teacher Assistant' often emphasizes a role supporting teachers directly, while 'Paraprofessional in Special Education' is a broader term for similar support staff. Both positions require similar credentials and work environments, making them closely related in the special education field.

How do I become a special education teacher assistant?

To become a special education teacher assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions may require postsecondary coursework or an associate degree in education or a related field. Relevant skills include patience, communication, and the ability to work with diverse learners; some roles may also require certification or training in first aid or behavior management.

What do special education teacher assistants do?

Special education teacher assistants support students with disabilities by helping them with daily activities, implementing individualized education plans, and assisting teachers in managing classroom behavior. They often work one-on-one or in small groups and may need to have relevant training or certifications depending on the setting.

What are the most commonly searched types of Special Education Teacher jobs in Rio Rancho, NM?

The most popular types of Special Education Teacher jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:

What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Special Education Teacher Assistant jobs?

Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Special Education Teacher Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Special Education Teacher Assistant job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,596 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Special Education Teacher

Pediatric Developmental Services

Bernalillo, NM โ€ข On-site

$40 - $50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Pediatric Developmental Services (PDS) is looking to hire a Special Education Teacher to join our staff and work in an amazing school! Are you passionate about helping all students reach their potential? Do you love working in a bright, active, positive environment? Are you interested in joining an organization devoted to helping all children succeed? If so, we want to hear from you!This position comes with a competitive salary and generous benefits. Our benefits package includes:Health, Dental, & Vision Insurance with company contributionIRA with company matchingSpecial Education Teacher Qualifications:Bachelor's Degree in a relevant fieldShall possess a Special Education Certificate (according to NM Department of Education requirements)Shall have experience with IEP writing, meetings etc.Special Education Teacher Responsibilities:Create and execute Individualized Education Plans (IEP) for each of the students in your careCommunicate with other staff and family members about each student's progress and strugglesPrepare detailed lesson plans and submit them to administrators for approvalParticipate in IEP meetings as scheduled by the schoolUse individualized reinforcement techniques to keep each student on the path toward greatnessInvite family members to participate in each student's educational progressCreate and distribute progress reports quarterlyConfer with on-site therapist over disciplinary and behavioral issues with studentsCreate a safe, productive classroom environmentARE YOU READY TO JOIN OUR TEAM?If you feel that would be right for this Special Educator position, please fill out our initial 3-minute, mobile-friendly application so that we can review your information. We look forward to meeting you!ABOUT PEDIATRIC DEVELOPMENTAL SERVICESPediatric Developmental Services (PDS) provides the nation's public school districts, charter schools, and communities at large with highly qualified teachers and pediatric therapists, including Special Education Teachers; as well as speech, occupational, and physical therapists. At PDS, we want to make a difference in the lives of children. From finding and training the best pediatric therapists to partnering them with the right schools and clinics in need, PDS supports win-win initiatives for all. From speech-language therapy to Special Education Teachers, our children deserve the best care possible, and at PDS, we make that happen.For every therapist and educator that works for us, we offer real support and a tailored mentorship program. We know that they are essential in our mission to make a difference in the lives of children. This is why we also offer competitive compensation and great benefits.
Job Posted by ApplicantPro

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About Pediatric Developmental Services

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pediatric Developmental Services (PDS) provides the nation's public school districts, charter schools, and communities at large with highly qualified pediatric therapists, including speech, occupational, and physical therapists. At PDS, we want to make a difference in the lives of children. From finding and training the best pediatric therapists to partnering them with the right schools and clinics in need, PDS supports win-win initiatives for all. From speech-language therapy to school psychology, our children deserve the best care possible, and at PDS, we make that happen. For every therapist that works for us, we offer real support and a tailored mentorship program . We know that they are essential in our mission to make a difference in the lives of children. This is why we also offer competitive compensation and great benefits .

Industry

Education

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Pikesville, MD, US

Year founded

2010