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Special Needs Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NurturEd

Special Needs Teacher Assistant

Smithfield, RI · On-site

$17/hr

A typical day for a Special Needs Teacher Assistant will include: * Working alongside a team of ... College credits, Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, Associate's degree, or higher in ...

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How much do special needs associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 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.

How can I make 2000 a week working from home?

A Special Needs Associate working from home can increase earnings by taking on multiple part-time or freelance roles, such as virtual tutoring, consulting, or caregiving services, often requiring relevant skills and certifications. Earning $2000 weekly typically involves a combination of high-demand services, a flexible schedule, and building a strong client base, but it may be challenging to reach this income level solely through a single remote position in this field.

What is a good job for someone with special needs?

A good job for someone with special needs depends on their abilities and interests; roles such as special needs associate, retail assistant, or administrative support can be suitable. These jobs often require patience, communication skills, and sometimes specific training or certifications. Employers may provide accommodations to support employees with disabilities in various work environments.

What are Special Needs Associates?

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 are some common challenges Special Needs Associates face when supporting students, and how are these challenges typically 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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Special Needs Associates typically do not earn $4,000 per week without advanced certifications or experience. High-paying roles that can reach this level often include skilled trades like commercial pilots, real estate brokers, or sales managers, which may require licensing or significant experience but not necessarily a college degree. These jobs often involve specialized skills, certifications, or licensing and may have variable schedules or environments.

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

An associate's degree in special education prepares individuals for roles such as Special Needs Associate or paraprofessional, supporting students with disabilities in educational settings. These positions often involve assisting teachers, implementing individualized plans, and working directly with students, sometimes requiring certification or training in behavior management or assistive technology.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Special Needs Associate, and why are they important?

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 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:
Special Needs Associate jobs near you

Special Needs Teacher Assistant

NurturEd

Smithfield, RI • On-site

$17/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Description:

Learn. Teach. Repeat. Be the Team. Deliver Excellence. We strive to be leaders in providing an educational and nurturing environment.

This is a full time opportunity. Full time hours are typically 35 to 37 hours/week. All employees are eligible for benefits at 30 hours/week.

We will consider part time availability for the right person.

A typical day for a Special Needs Teacher Assistant will include:

  • Working alongside a team of teachers to provide a safe, healthy, structured, and welcoming space to grow and learn.
  • Engaging with children in learning - reading, playing, and having fun!
  • Inspiring children to be lifelong learners.
  • Partnering with families to nurture and care for their children.
  • Showcasing your tech savvy skills by using an electronic daily tracking app.
  • Assisting with the accreditation process as well as other quality initiatives.
  • Supporting our Therapeutic Child Care Services (TCCS) special needs inclusion program.
  • Working alongside Clinicians to provide an appropriate learning environment and activities for children with special needs, particularly behaviorally challenging children.
  • Assisting children to become successful in meeting their individual goals outlined in their behavior plans, while integrated with typically developing peers.

Why you'll love us:

We invite you to join our growing community of teachers and hope you'll find a rewarding and fulfilling career with us.

We offer the following perks and benefits:

  • Paid Time Off
  • 401k with company match
  • 13 Paid Holidays
  • Child Care Discounts
  • College Tuition Reimbursement
  • Medical (Healthcare Benefits), Dental, Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Training/Professional Development opportunities

Learn more about our benefits at https://nurturedelc.com/employee-perks-benefits/

Our learning centers are open between the hours of 7:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. We have locations across Rhode Island. We have full time positions or part time positions (with flexible schedules available). Benefits vary for full time / part time positions.

Requirements:

We are willing to train the right person! Our ideal candidate will have experience working with special needs children or children with challenging behaviors.

We are looking for someone who has the following skills:

  • A personal demeanor that is warm and friendly.
  • Verbal and written communication skills.
  • Reliable attendance and punctuality.
  • Organized and able to prioritize and multi-task.
  • Team-oriented and willing to work with others.

The Special Needs Teacher Assistant (referred to as a Therapeutic Integration Specialist or TIS) will be asked to attend occasional trainings after hours (typically at 6:30pm). The TIS will also have meetings with the TCCS Clinician to give all children the opportunity to succeed.

Education Requirements

  • College credits, Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, Associate’s degree, or higher in Early Childhood Education or related field preferred.
  • Minimum of High school diploma (or equivalent) with college credits in Early Childhood Education or related field required.
  • We will train the right person and offer opportunities to gain a degree or college credits!

Certifications/Experience

  • At least 2 years working in an early learning/child care center.
  • Must have experience with special needs students, particularly with de-escalating behavior challenges.
  • Rhode Island Early Learning and Development Standards (RIELDS) certification preferred.
  • Knowledge of Teaching Strategies and/or Conscious Discipline preferred.
  • CPR/First Aid certification preferred.

Physical Requirements

  • Able to engage in physical exercise with children (walking, running, crawling, bending, twisting).
  • Visual and hearing acuity.
  • Able to lift up to 40 pounds.

Other Qualifications

  • 19 years of age or older
  • Able to read, write, speak and understand English, bilingual encouraged to apply.
  • Must pass national criminal background/fingerprints check.
  • Must pass Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) Clearance Request (CPS).

We hope you will join our team!

Having technical issues with your application?

Contact us at HR@edcentralri.com