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Sped Assistant Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

... * Assist with the development and implementation of inclusive procedures for CSUSA schools. * Implement of least Restrictive Environment Instruction for SPED students. * Provide technical assistance ...

$27/hr

... in SPED for school year 2026-27 and beyond. Responsibilities Successful applicants will ... * Assist in management of student behaviors in other parts of the school, center, school grounds ...

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Sped Assistant information

See Florida salary details

$7

$13

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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 Florida is $13.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.15 and $15.29 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 are the most commonly searched types of Sped jobs in Florida?

The most popular types of Sped jobs in Florida are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Sped Assistant jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Sped Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Sped Assistant job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $28,901 per year, or $13.9 per hour.

Title Alachua SPED Teaching Career (6953)

University Instructors Llc

Gainesville, FL

$27/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Alachua SPED Teaching Career (6953)
Job Locations US-FL-Gainesville
Job Post Information* : Posted Date 1 week ago(8/19/2026 6:18 PM)
ID 2026-11495
# of Openings 50
Job Family Other
Type Temporary Assignment
Practice Area Education Services
Overview

Unlimited Instruction, LLC is seeking talented people from diverse backgrounds to lead, change, and inspire students in the Gainesville, FL area. In this role you will serve students in special education programs as a classroom teacher in a pathway program.

**Candidates that hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution in ANY field are eligible to take part in our pathways program. In this program you have the opportunity to become eligible for a provisional teaching license in SPED for school year 2026-27 and beyond.

Responsibilities

Successful applicants will:

  • Establish and maintain effective relationships with students, peers, administrators, support staff and parents.
  • Continually assess and monitor student achievement and maintain all documents and evaluations for institutional and individual reporting purposes.
  • Design and implement appropriate instructional and/or learning strategies and activities.
  • Manage student behaviors in the instructional setting to ensure an environment that is conducive to the learning process.
  • Assist in management of student behaviors in other parts of the school, center, school grounds, or work site.
  • Coordinate instructional activities with other professional staff, both school and non-school based as required, to maximize student learning opportunities.
  • Participate in in-service and professional development activities and staff meetings, as required or assigned.
  • Communicate with students on instructional expectations to keep them informed of their progress in meeting those expectations.
  • Communicate with parents through conferences and other means.
  • Collaborate with other professionals and support staff to carry out schoolwide instructional or related activities as needed.
  • Use multi-media and other technologies to enhance learning.
  • Plan and implement lessons based on division and school objectives for students with varying ability.
  • Provide development, management, and support for IEPs, BSPs, etc.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Work Conditions:

Duties are primarily performed within a school setting. Physical requirements include frequent standing, sitting, walking, and lifting. The role often requires getting up and down from the floor or low seating, assisting students with mobility, and occasionally running or moving quickly to ensure student safety. Additional physical tasks may include helping students with transfers, positioning, toileting, or use of adaptive equipment, as well as supporting students during physical activities or transitions between classrooms. Some assignments are subject to strict deadlines, especially when adapting and delivering programs to meet the needs of diverse student groups. The position involves regular interaction with students and parents who may be experiencing heightened emotional states. Employees are expected to use de-escalation techniques, maintain a calm and supportive demeanor, and implement behavior intervention strategies as needed to ensure a safe and positive environment. Students may exhibit behavioral challenges, including verbal outbursts or physical behaviors such as hitting, kicking, biting, eloping, or throwing objects. Employees must be prepared to respond appropriately to these situations, following established safety protocols and behavior management plans. Employees may be required to provide both emergency and non-emergency health-related services to students, including basic first aid, assisting with prescribed medical procedures, or responding to health emergencies according to school protocols.

Qualifications

Successful applicants will:

  • Have completed a bachelor's degree program in any field from a regionally accredited university or institution.
  • Have previously completed a foundations of special education course or be willing to take the course as a term of their employment.
  • Will work towards successfully obtaining a provisional Special Education License from the state of Florida.
  • Have excellent oral and written communication skills.
Compensation

$27 per hour | Monday-Friday | Daytime schedule

EEO Statement

Unlimited Instruction, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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