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Sped Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

KIPP Memphis

SPED Assistant

Memphis, TN

$13.75 - $19/hr

May assist students with special needs and/or in need of special attention; provides assistance with daily living routines, skills and concepts including personal hygiene, toileting, dressing, self ...

BASIS Ed

Special Education Assistant

Pflugerville, TX

$14.50 - $20/hr

The SPED Assistant will provide paraprofessional support for individual student(s) or small groups with a variety of exceptionalities such as autism, developmental delay, intellectual disability ...

BASIS Ed

Special Education Assistant

Pflugerville, TX

$14.50 - $20/hr

The SPED Assistant will provide paraprofessional support for individual student(s) or small groups with a variety of exceptionalities such as autism, developmental delay, intellectual disability ...

KIPP Memphis

SPED Assistant

Memphis, TN · On-site

$13.75 - $19/hr

May assist students with special needs and/or in need of special attention; provides assistance with daily living routines, skills and concepts including personal hygiene, toileting, dressing, self ...

North American Kitchen Solutions

SPED Assistant

Memphis, TN · On-site

$13.75 - $19/hr

May assist students with special needs and/or in need of special attention; provides assistance with daily living routines, skills and concepts including personal hygiene, toileting, dressing, self ...

BASIS ED

Special Education Assistant

Pflugerville, TX · On-site

$14.50 - $20/hr

The SPED Assistant will provide paraprofessional support for individual student(s) or small groups with a variety of exceptionalities such as autism, developmental delay, intellectual disability ...

Sequatchie County Schools

Elementary SPED assistant

Dunlap, TN · On-site

$37K - $51K/yr

We are looking for a trustworthy person to help with children and follow direction of lead teacher. You will be expected to support students in both academic and social settings. Applicants must pass ...

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How much do sped assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for sped assistant in the United States is $18.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sped assistant?

Sped Assistants, also known as Special Education Assistants or paraprofessionals, are support staff who work under the supervision of special education teachers to assist students with disabilities in educational settings. They help implement individualized education plans (IEPs), provide academic and behavioral support, and assist with daily classroom activities. Their role may also include helping students with personal care, mobility, and communication, ensuring students receive equal opportunities to learn and participate. Sped Assistants play a vital role in fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sped assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sped Assistant, you need a solid understanding of special education practices, child development, and often at least a high school diploma or relevant coursework in education. Familiarity with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), assistive technology, and classroom management systems is typically required. Patience, empathy, and strong communication skills are crucial for supporting students with diverse needs and collaborating with teachers and parents. These skills and qualities are vital for creating an inclusive learning environment and helping students reach their full potential.

What are some common challenges a sped assistant faces when supporting students with diverse needs, and how are these typically addressed?

Sped Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing a variety of learning and behavioral needs, adapting instructional materials, and balancing support among multiple students. These challenges are typically addressed through ongoing collaboration with special education teachers, participating in regular training sessions, and maintaining open communication with the educational team. Flexibility, patience, and a willingness to learn new strategies are key qualities that help Sped Assistants succeed in this dynamic environment.

What is the difference between Sped Assistant vs Paraprofessional?

AspectSped AssistantParaprofessional
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require additional trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; often similar requirements
Work EnvironmentSpecial education classrooms, assisting students with disabilitiesVarious settings including classrooms, support roles, and general education
Employer & IndustrySchools, districts, special education programsSchools, educational institutions, sometimes in healthcare or community programs
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared due to similar roles supporting students with disabilities

Both Sped Assistants and Paraprofessionals work in educational settings supporting students, especially those with special needs. While their credentials are similar, Sped Assistants typically focus specifically on assisting in special education classrooms, whereas Paraprofessionals may work in a broader range of educational or support roles. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How to become a special education assistant?

To become a special education assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may pursue relevant certifications such as paraprofessional or teacher assistant credentials. Experience working with children with special needs and strong communication skills are also important; some positions may require additional training or coursework in special education methods.

What does a special education assistant do?

A special education assistant supports students with disabilities by helping them with daily activities, implementing individualized education plans (IEPs), and assisting teachers in managing classroom behavior. They often work closely with students, use communication tools, and may require training or certification in special education support. Their role ensures students receive appropriate educational assistance in a classroom setting.

What cities are hiring for Sped Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Sped Assistant job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Sped jobs?

The most popular types of Sped jobs are:

What states have the most Sped Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Sped Assistant jobs include:

Sped Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sped Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,674 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

SPED Assistant 1:1

NORTHWOOD ACADEMY CHARTER SCHOOL

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

$35K - $53K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Description


Position Summary: Under the guidance of the Director of Special Education, the SPED Assistant 1:1 assists students with various needs including students with disabilities receiving special education services. The SPED Assistant 1:1 works directly with his/her/their assigned student providing specialized assistance to maintain progress toward IEP and/or FBA goals. The SPED Assistant 1:1 provides positive student support while maintaining a safe educational environment for the student. 


Essential Accountabilities:

  • Provide specialized assistance to his/her/their assigned student.
  • Communicate with the instructional team and leadership on all relevant matters.
  • Participate in 10-hours of professional development/ongoing training. 
  • Relevant duties as assigned by school administration.

Requirements


Education/Experience: 

  • High school diploma or GED. Be at least 18 years of age. At least one (1)  year of experience working with children is preferred.  

Qualifications:

  • Ability to motivate and provide encouragement to children of all ages and all backgrounds.
  • A warm and approachable personality.
  • Ability to work well with a team.
  • Ability to remain patient and calm under pressure.
  • Good numeracy and literacy skills.
  • Possess a strong work ethic, with a track record of being punctual. 
  • Ability to embody, advocate and operationalize the mission and strategic direction of Northwood Academy Charter School. 
  • Demonstrate a genuine interest, understanding and care for student's personal and academic success. 
  • Operate in the belief that all students can learn and be held to high standards. 
  • Respond positively and effectively to challenges with solutions-oriented mindset. 
  • Possess excellent organization and time management skills. 
  • Ability to demonstrate regular attendance and punctuality. 
  • Ability to maintain a professional demeanor in all situations and must be able to withhold confidential information.  

Working Conditions: Usually work indoors in classrooms, may sometimes work outdoors with student. Work very near others, within a few feet or less. Working with young children often entails close contact. Must have the ability to sit and stand for extended periods of time; exhibit manual dexterity; and hear and understand speech at normal classroom levels. 


Physical Requirements: There are physical aspects of this position to successfully carry out essential job functions such as ability to lift or carry supplies, textbooks, and equipment up to 30 pounds. Must be able to sit, stand, bend, stoop, reach, grab, pull, see, hear, and speak daily. Employees in this classification may be subject to work environments that have exposure to weather or interiors with extremes of heat and/or cold, wet and/or humid conditions, high noise levels, and various work-related hazards. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable a person with a disability to perform the essential job duties. 


Clearance Requirements: Incumbents must maintain required clearances. This includes the Act 34 (State Criminal Clearance), Act 151 (Child Abuse) and Act 114 (FBI Clearance).

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