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Special Needs Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Supervise all Special Needs Coordinators and Associates. This includes providing leadership, support, and communicating relative departmental or church information to help them be successful in their ...

Special Needs Assistant

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$18.12 - $23.95/hr

An associate degree in child development, special education, early childhood education or related field and experience working with children with special needs highly preferred. **Two (2) years ...

Special Needs Aide

Salado, TX

$12.75 - $16.50/hr

... associate's degree, or two years of study at an institution of higher learning* Valid Texas ... Keep teacher informed of special needs or problems of assigned student(s). Other * Maintain ...

An associate degree in child development, special education, early childhood education or related field and experience working with children with special needs highly preferred. **Two (2) years ...

Special Needs Assistant

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$18.12 - $23.95/hr

An associate degree in child development, special education, early childhood education or related field and experience working with children with special needs highly preferred. **Two (2) years ...

An associate degree in child development, special education, early childhood education or related field and experience working with children with special needs highly preferred. **Two (2) years ...

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Special Needs Associate information

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$10

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$43

How much do special needs associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for special needs associate in the United States is $18.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a special needs associate?

Special Needs Associates are professionals who support individuals with physical, emotional, or learning disabilities in educational, social, or care settings. They work alongside teachers, therapists, or other caregivers to help clients achieve their personal, academic, or developmental goals. Their responsibilities often include assisting with daily activities, implementing individualized plans, and fostering an inclusive environment. Special Needs Associates play a crucial role in promoting independence and improving the quality of life for those they support.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a special needs associate?

To thrive as a Special Needs Associate, you typically need a background in education or social work, understanding of developmental disabilities, and relevant experience or certifications such as CPI or first aid. Familiarity with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), assistive technology, and behavior management systems is often required. Patience, strong communication, and empathy are crucial soft skills for building trust and supporting individuals with special needs. These skills and qualities are essential to provide effective support, ensure safety, and foster a positive learning or care environment.

What challenges do special needs associates face when supporting students, and how are they addressed?

Special Needs Associates often encounter challenges such as managing behavioral outbursts, adapting instructional materials to individual learning styles, and ensuring consistent communication between teachers, therapists, and families. These challenges are typically addressed through ongoing training in behavioral management, collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, and regular meetings to review student progress and adapt strategies. Building strong relationships with students and maintaining flexibility are also key to overcoming daily obstacles and fostering a supportive learning environment.

What is the difference between Special Needs Associate vs Paraprofessional?

AspectSpecial Needs AssociateParaprofessional
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require additional certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification varies by state
Work EnvironmentSchools, special education programs, therapy centersPublic and private schools, classrooms, educational settings
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, special education departmentsSchools, educational support services
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared due to similar roles supporting students with special needsSimilar responsibilities but different terminology in some regions

Special Needs Associates and Paraprofessionals both support students with disabilities in educational settings. While their roles overlap significantly, the title 'Special Needs Associate' is often used in specific districts or programs, sometimes indicating a focus on specialized support. Both positions typically require similar credentials and work environments, making them comparable in the field of special education support.

What can you do with an associate's degree in special needs associate?

An associate's degree in special needs associate prepares individuals for entry-level roles such as paraprofessional, teaching assistant, or behavioral aide in educational or healthcare settings. These positions involve supporting students with disabilities, implementing individualized plans, and working under supervision; certification or additional training may be required for certain roles.

What degree is needed to work with special needs?

A Special Needs Associate typically does not require a specific degree but often benefits from a high school diploma or equivalent. Many employers prefer candidates with postsecondary education in fields like education, psychology, or social work, and relevant certifications such as CPR or behavior management training can be advantageous.

What cities are hiring for Special Needs Associate jobs?

Cities with the most Special Needs Associate job openings:

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

The most popular types of Special Needs jobs are:

What states have the most Special Needs Associate jobs?

States with the most job openings for Special Needs Associate jobs include:

Part-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Job Title:Special Needs Coordinator

Campus: North Fort Worth

Department: Children

Campus Report: Associate Campus Pastor

Department Report: Special Needs Ministry Director

Status: Non-exempt, Part-time

Supervisory Role: No

Date Updated: 8/14/2026

Objective:

Coordinates and supports special needs inclusion across Kids, Students, and Adults ministries at the North Fort Worth campus, ensuring families with disabilities experience a welcoming, supported church environment.

Essential Job Functions:

  • Serve as primary point of contact for special needs families across all age ministries at the campus
  • Conduct intake conversations with new families to understand each individual's needs and assist Central Special Need's Director in creating and implementing care/support plans
  • Recruit, train, and schedule volunteers for kid's and student's environments
  • Coordinate sensory-friendly spaces or accommodations for weekend services and events
  • Partner with Kids and Students ministry leaders to ensure classroom/small group environments are inclusive
  • Support adult ministry leaders in identifying accommodations for adults with disabilities (worship environment, small groups, serving opportunities)
  • Maintain communication with families regarding accommodations, schedule changes, or concerns
  • Track volunteer training completion and accommodation plans in Rock

Work Schedule:

  • 15 hours / week, Office Hours TBD by employee and Associate Campus Pastor

Education:

  • Bachelor's degree is preferred or working towards a bachelor's degree

Experience:

  • 1 to 3 years of practical experience working with children, students, or adults with special needs (such as Autism, ADHD, or sensory processing differences)

Soft Skills:

  • Growing personal relationship with Jesus Christ as evidenced by spiritual maturity and a close consistent walk with Him
  • Embrace a vibrant vision for Special Need's Ministry consistent with Compass' mission statement
  • Heart for special needs families and inclusive ministry; personal or professional experience with disabilities preferred
  • Strong relational and communication skills
  • Proven ability to collaborate across multiple ministry areas and age groups
  • Demonstrated ability to build and develop teams
  • Organized, detail-oriented, comfortable with basic data entry
  • Demonstrate strong conflict management and public relation skills
  • Demonstrated flexibility and calm under pressure in changing and/or emergency situations
  • Must believe and embody the following statements: fun is spiritual, servants are leaders and people matter to God

Additional Requirements:

  • Background check and child protection training required upon hire

Requirements of Compass Staff:

  • Must have a servant's heart for ministry, serving witha positiveattitude and spirit
  • Must be of moral and spiritual integrity in all areas of your walk and life
  • Every staff member is expected to fully engage in the ministry of the church.This includes attending a weekend service and tithing.

We consider ministry readiness, and an individual's capacity to represent Compass Church's beliefs, during the selection process for all positions.

Each member of the Compass Church team takes a "how can I help" approach to ministry. While each team member has individual areas of responsibility, collaboration and support permeate our culture. There is no task below a team member at Compass. If we see something that needs to be done, we do it!

All applicants MUST apply at compass.church/employment.