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Teacher Assistant Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Teacher (Twos) * Teacher (Twos) What you bring as a Team Member: All Teacher and Assistant Teachers are expected to plan, direct, and participate in age-appropriate activities designed to ...

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Teacher Assistant information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$8

$14

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How much do teacher assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for teacher assistant in Oak Ridge, TN is $14.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.88 and $16.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a teacher assistant?

Teacher Assistants, also known as paraprofessionals or teacher aides, are educational professionals who support teachers in the classroom. They help with instructional responsibilities, classroom management, and providing individualized attention to students. Teacher Assistants may assist with grading, preparing materials, supervising students, and supporting students with special needs. Their work allows teachers to focus more on instruction and helps create a positive and effective learning environment.

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

To thrive as a Teacher Assistant, you need a foundational understanding of educational practices, classroom management, and child development, often supported by an associate degree or relevant certification. Familiarity with learning management systems, educational software, and basic administrative tools is commonly expected. Strong communication, patience, and teamwork skills help Teacher Assistants effectively support students and collaborate with lead teachers. These abilities are crucial for fostering a positive learning environment and ensuring smooth classroom operations.

What does a teacher assistant do?

In schools across the country, teacher assistants—also called paraprofessional educators—are an integral part of classroom culture. Teacher assistants provide help to both teachers and students in a variety of ways. For example, a teacher assistant performs simple administrative tasks, like filing paperwork or putting up bulletin board displays, so that the classroom teacher can focus on planning lessons and grading student work. During classroom instruction, a teacher assistant will circulate the classroom and provide help to students who are off-task or confused. At times, a teacher assistant may be asked to lead a small group of students in extra practice on a given topic.

What are the most common challenges teacher assistants face when supporting diverse classrooms, and how can they effectively address them?

Teacher Assistants often work with students from various backgrounds and abilities, which can present challenges such as language barriers, differing learning styles, and behavioral issues. To address these challenges, it's important to collaborate closely with the lead teacher, adapt instructional materials, and use effective communication strategies. Being proactive in seeking professional development opportunities and fostering a supportive classroom environment also helps Teacher Assistants meet the diverse needs of students successfully.

What is the difference between Teacher Assistant vs Paraprofessional?

AspectTeacher AssistantParaprofessional
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent; often similar certification requirements
Work EnvironmentClassrooms, schools, educational settingsClassrooms, special education, support roles in schools
Employer & Industry UsagePublic and private schools, educational institutionsPublic schools, special education programs, educational support services
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, qualifications, and responsibilitiesClarifying job duties, certifications, and differences

Both Teacher Assistants and Paraprofessionals support classroom activities and work closely with teachers and students. While their roles often overlap, Paraprofessionals may have additional responsibilities in special education or specific support functions. Both positions typically require similar educational credentials and are employed in educational settings, making them closely related roles in the education industry.

How can I become a teacher assistant with no experience?

To become a teacher assistant with no experience, you can start by obtaining a high school diploma or equivalent, and consider volunteering or working in educational settings to gain relevant skills. Some positions may require a background check or basic training, and having strong communication and organizational skills can improve your chances of being hired.

How do I get into a teaching assistant?

To become a teaching assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring postsecondary education or relevant coursework. Relevant skills include good communication, patience, and organizational abilities; some roles may require background checks or certifications such as CPR or first aid. Applying through school districts, educational institutions, or childcare centers is common, and gaining experience through volunteering or internships can improve prospects.

What do you need to work as a teacher assistant?

To work as a teacher assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions may require postsecondary education or relevant coursework. Strong communication skills, patience, and the ability to work with children or students are important. Some roles may also require background checks and certifications such as CPR or first aid.

What qualifications do I need for a teacher assistant?

Teacher assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require postsecondary education or relevant coursework. Many schools also prefer candidates with strong communication skills, patience, and basic knowledge of classroom technology. Certification requirements vary by state or school district but are generally not mandatory for entry-level roles.

What qualifications do you need to be an assistant teacher?

Assistant teachers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions require postsecondary coursework or an associate degree in education or a related field. Relevant skills include patience, communication, and the ability to work with children, and some roles may require background checks or certifications such as CPR or first aid.

What are the most commonly searched types of Teacher jobs in Oak Ridge, TN?

The most popular types of Teacher jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

What job categories do people searching Teacher Assistant jobs in Oak Ridge, TN look for?

The top searched job categories for Teacher Assistant jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Teacher Assistant jobs?

Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Teacher Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Teacher Assistant job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,141 per year, or $15 per hour.

Teacher / Assistant Teacher

Otter Learning TN LLC

Knoxville, TN

$12 - $14/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

LOOKING FOR PASSIONATE INDIVIDUALS TO JOIN OUR TEAM!
CAREER GROWTH AND IN HOUSE TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES
FULL TIME AND PART TIME POSITIONSMONDAY-FRIDAY ONLYWe are looking for experienced teachers to join our talented team where we inspire children to be lifelong learners through our play-based curriculum. Our affectionate and nurturing staff ensure that our children are instilled with the knowledge to succeed. We are looking for candidates that are as passionate about the growth and development of children as we are.Open Roles:
  1. Assistant Teacher (Twos)
  2. Teacher (Twos)
What you bring as a Team Member:

All Teacher and Assistant Teachers are expected to plan, direct, and participate in age-appropriate activities designed to promote the intellectual, physical, emotional, and social development of children with the oversight of a senior team member. You will prepare children for kindergarten by easing them into organized education from infancy to school age using the provided curriculum. You will also assist in daily care such as feeding, changing, and nap time. You will maintain interactive and open communication with parents and other team members using our Classroom Management system.

Our promise to you:

We take pride in our work and that includes our Team. Without you, we could not provide the high level of care we are known for! To ensure you have the support you need to focus on the important job of developing our children we promise to provide:

  • Competitive pay
  • Health, Dental, Vision, Vol Life, LTD, STD and more
  • Paid time off
  • Paid holidays
  • Referral Bonus
  • In-house training and educational assistance
  • Mobility Bonus if you work at another location
  • Tuition discount for your own children

Requirements: Must be 18 years or older and have a high school diploma or GED. Minimum 1 year of experience, Previous experience and knowledge of childcare licensing requirements is great but not necessary.

Pay: $12.00-$14.00 Hour based on Region, education and experience