ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Special Needs Assistant Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSpecial Needs JobsSpecial Needs Assistant JobsSpecial Needs Assistant Jobs in Indiana

Special Needs Assistant information

See Indiana salary details

$9

$17

$24

How much do special needs assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for special needs assistant in Indiana is $17.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $19.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a special needs assistant?

Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) are professionals who support teachers in schools by assisting students with disabilities or special educational needs. Their primary role is to help these students access the curriculum, participate in school activities, and develop their social and life skills. SNAs provide individualized support, such as helping with mobility, communication, and personal care, depending on each student's unique requirements. They work closely with teachers, parents, and other professionals to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a special needs assistant?

To thrive as a Special Needs Assistant, you need a solid understanding of child development, experience working with individuals with disabilities, and often a relevant qualification such as a Special Needs Assistant (SNA) certificate or equivalent. Familiarity with assistive technologies, Individual Education Plans (IEPs), and basic first aid is typically required. Patience, empathy, and strong communication skills help build trust and effective relationships with students and colleagues. These abilities are crucial for supporting diverse learning needs, promoting inclusion, and ensuring the well-being and progress of students with special needs.

What are common challenges faced by special needs assistants in the classroom, and how can they be addressed?

Special Needs Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing diverse student needs, supporting individualized education plans, and balancing attention among multiple students. These can be addressed by maintaining open communication with teachers, using adaptive strategies tailored to each student, and participating in regular training sessions. Collaborating closely with educational teams and seeking feedback helps Special Needs Assistants adapt to evolving classroom dynamics and provide the best possible support.

What is the difference between Special Needs Assistant vs Teaching Assistant?

AspectSpecial Needs AssistantTeaching Assistant
Required CredentialsOften requires a relevant qualification or certification in special education or supportTypically requires a general education qualification; some roles prefer specific certifications
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in special education classrooms, supporting students with disabilitiesIn general classrooms, assisting teachers and supporting student learning
Employer & Industry UsageUsed mainly in schools with special education programsCommon across various school settings, including mainstream classrooms
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for roles supporting students with special needsCompared for general classroom support roles

Special Needs Assistants focus on supporting students with disabilities in specialized settings, requiring specific training. Teaching Assistants provide general classroom support across various subjects and environments. While both roles assist teachers, Special Needs Assistants have a specialized focus on students with special needs.

What skills do you need to be a special needs assistant?

A special needs assistant needs strong communication, patience, and empathy to support students with diverse needs. They should have good teamwork skills, basic knowledge of special education strategies, and often require certifications such as first aid or behavior management training. Physical stamina and the ability to adapt to different situations are also important.

What are the most commonly searched types of Special Needs jobs in Indiana?

The most popular types of Special Needs jobs in Indiana are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Special Needs Assistant jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Special Needs Assistant job openings:

Special Needs Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Special Needs Assistant job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,801 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Elementary Special Needs Aide

Monroe, IN

Adams Central Community Schools
11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Adams Central Community Schoolsexternal

$13 - $17/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Essential Functions of the Position: Effectively assist certified staff in the provision of special education services and support to students. Assistance in areas that relate to personal, physical, social and instructional needs of a student. The candidate will assist students in one-on-one and/or small group settings. Able to lift up to, but not limited to 50 lbs. Communication skills required for school environment. Other duties as assigned by the teacher, immediate supervisor or superintendent. Preference will be given to candidates with prior experience. This position is 5 days a week/ approx. 7 hours a day, with a scheduled day off once a month. Benefits are not included in this position.


Immediate Supervisor: Mrs. Mary McCullough, Elementary Principal


Interested candidates should submit a letter of interest, resume, list of 3 references, and a completed non-certified Adams Central application available at: https://www.accs.k12.in.us/page/employment.


Application materials should be submitted by email to Director of HR: hr@accs.k12.in.us.