1

Teacher Assistant Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Teacher

Springfield, IL · On-site

$20.33 - $30.50/hr

The classroom teacher regardless of race, creed, or disability is primarily responsible for the ... Supervise and assist the children with bathroom activities. 18. Requisition supplies for the ...

Teacher

Springfield, IL · On-site

$20.33 - $30.50/hr

The classroom teacher regardless of race, creed, or disability is primarily responsible for the ... Supervise and assist the children with bathroom activities. 18. Requisition supplies for the ...

Assistant Teacher

Springfield, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $18.25/hr

Assistant Teacher Key Responsibilities: * Assist the Lead Teacher in implementing age-appropriate lesson plans * Support children's social, emotional, cognitive and physical development through ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Teacher Assistant information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$9

$15

$21

How much do teacher assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for teacher assistant in Springfield, IL is $15.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $16.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

How can I become a teacher assistant?

To become a teacher assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions require an associate degree or relevant coursework. Relevant skills include communication, patience, and organizational abilities. Certification requirements vary by state or school district but may include background checks and specialized training.

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.

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.

How much do you get paid for a teaching assistant?

The salary of a teaching assistant varies depending on location, experience, and the educational institution, but it typically ranges from $10 to $20 per hour. Full-time positions often offer annual salaries between $20,000 and $30,000, with benefits sometimes included. Certification and additional skills can influence pay rates.

What qualifications do you need as a teaching assistant?

A teaching assistant typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring postsecondary education or relevant coursework. Many roles also prefer prior experience working with children or in educational settings, and some may require background checks or certifications such as CPR or first aid. Strong communication skills and patience are essential for the role.

What does a teacher assistant do?

A teacher assistant supports classroom teachers by helping with instructional activities, supervising students, and managing classroom behavior. They may assist with lesson preparation, provide individual or small group support, and help create a positive learning environment, often requiring good communication skills and patience.

What Do Teacher Assistants 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 Teacher Assistants?

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 qualifications do you need as a teaching assistant?

A teaching assistant typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require postsecondary education or relevant certifications. Strong communication skills, patience, and the ability to work with children or students are important. Depending on the setting, additional training or background checks may be required.

What does an assistant teacher do?

An assistant teacher supports lead teachers in classroom activities, helps manage student behavior, prepares instructional materials, and provides individual or small group assistance to students. They often work under supervision and may need relevant certifications or background checks depending on the educational setting.

What qualifications do you need to be an assistant teacher?

Assistant teachers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions require an associate's degree or coursework in education or child development. 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 is a TA salary?

A teacher assistant (TA) salary varies depending on location, experience, and school district, but typically ranges from $20,000 to $30,000 annually. TAs often work part-time or full-time hours, and some positions may include benefits or opportunities for certification advancement.

What does an assistant teacher do?

An assistant teacher supports lead teachers by helping with classroom management, preparing materials, and providing individual or small group instruction to students. They often work under supervision, require good communication skills, and may assist with behavioral or learning challenges to ensure a positive educational environment.

Do TAs get paid?

Teacher assistants (TAs) are typically paid employees who receive wages or stipends for their work assisting teachers in classrooms. Their pay varies by school district, state, and experience, and they may also earn benefits depending on their employment status. Many TAs work part-time and may need relevant certifications or training to qualify for payment.

What does a teaching assistant do?

A teaching assistant supports classroom teachers by helping with instructional tasks, supervising students, and managing classroom activities. They may assist with grading, preparing materials, and providing individual support to students, often requiring good communication skills and patience. Teaching assistants typically work in educational settings such as schools and may need relevant certifications or training depending on the region.
What are the most commonly searched types of Teacher jobs in Springfield, IL? The most popular types of Teacher jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Teacher Assistant jobs in Springfield, IL? For Teacher Assistant jobs in Springfield, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Teacher Assistant jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Teacher Assistant jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Teacher Assistant jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Teacher Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Teacher Assistant job openings in Springfield, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,283 per year, or $15.5 per hour.
Head Start Teacher Assistant (0-5)

Head Start Teacher Assistant (0-5)

Springfield Urban League

Springfield, IL • On-site

$16.50 - $21.40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

SPRINGFIELD URBAN LEAGUE, INC.

TEACHER ASSISTANT (0-5) Head Start – 9 Month Position

Work Location: 770 Apple Orchard Road, Springfield, IL

JOB DESCRIPTION

SUMMARY: The position of the Teacher Assistant regardless of race, creed, or disability is primarily responsible for building and building a classroom community for pre-school children as well as promoting family involvement in the classroom. Through training and other activities, the teacher assistant will provide a safe and creative atmosphere for the growth and development of children and will provide training and technical assistance to the teacher assistant.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  1. Signs in and out when arriving and leaving any Head Start site.
  1. Timely daily arrival to work.
  1. Greets children and parents as well as co-workers with a warm, positive, and respectful.
  1. Works with parents and caregivers, providing information and supportive services as needed. This includes conducting a Family Assessment with each enrolled family and negotiating/implementing an Individualized Family Partnership Agreement with them, as well as quarterly meetings with those families who have selected to receive ongoing services. This includes completing required contacts and paperwork for the services provided to each assigned family.
  1. Makes appropriate referrals for families and children and follows up on referrals to determine if services were received and needs were met.
  1. Interview interested families during enrollment for completion of application and enrollment process by utilizing application checklist.
  1. Provide completed application to the Site Manager for review and approval.
  1. Obtain income documentation to verify eligibility.
  1. Provide actual income documentations, i.e. W2, 1040, RASP, Child support, etc. to ERSEA Coordinator.
  1. Obtain hard copies of IEP’s and IFSP’s during enrollment.
  1. Hard copies of IEP’s and IFSP’s will be provided to Special Services Coordinator in 24 hours.
  1. Maintain files in a locked file cabinet.
  1. Send via U.S. Mail official notification to families to inform them of selection for enrollment.
  1. Enter reasons and causes of absences into ChildPlus daily.
  1. Per the Attendance Document Procedures, provides follow-up on children with attendance issues by making contact with families within the hour of the absence.
  1. Works closely with teaching staff to coordinate home visits (when agreed upon by both parties), share pertinent information, collaborate on family concerns, and provide united support to families.
  1. Attends staff meetings, training sessions, Family Committee Meetings and Community Service Provider Meetings as recommended by the Family Resource Development Coordinator.
  1. Provides crisis intervention services to Head Start families within the scope of the agency’s resources.
  1. Distributes information regarding adult education, employment, male involvement, and family involvement to Head Start families.
  1. Distributes health education information to classroom staff and parents and forwards incoming health-related records and information to the site’s Data Clerk.
  1. Offers updates regarding local social service and health service-related resources for families.
  1. Helps identify medical and dental issues and makes referrals to health agencies.
  1. Assists with ongoing health screenings held at each Site or in the community as arranged by the Health Services Staff.
  1. Submits records of children’s illnesses and health needs as identified in the assigned classrooms and assures that proper follow-up action is taken in consultation with the parent and/or a health professional.
  1. Works with Data Clerk to maintain records required in the children’s site files.
  1. Provides assistance and support in health emergencies at the site and provides follow-up, as appropriate.
  1. Consults with staff on child abuse and neglect issues and fulfills mandated reporter duties per State of Illinois laws.
  1. Maintains confidentiality and professionalism at all times.
  1. Employee will comply with the policies and procedures for bus monitoring. Bus monitoring services will consist of (but not limited to) securing all children in seatbelts, taking attendance, securing authorized signatures when releasing the child from the bus. Employee will also maintain control and ensure the safety of the children on the bus at all times.
  1. Performs other duties as assigned, with consideration given to the priority of

direct services to families.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  1. Minimum Educational Standards: A credential or certification in social work, human services, family services, counseling or a related field. Desired Educational standards: Bachelor’s Degree in social services or related field.
  1. Ability to communicate and work well with parents, children, staff, and community agency personnel
  1. Ability to pass a medical examination identifying freedom from communicable disease
  1. Ability to lift at least 40 pounds
  1. At least 21 years of age
  1. Must have a current Illinois Driver’s License, reliable transportation for self and others for use in program activities, and proof of car insurance required by the State of Illinois
  1. Willingness to learn and uphold Springfield Urban League Head Start Policies and Procedures and have a positive attitude toward direction
  1. Must meet the State of Illinois Department of Children and Family Services Licensing Standards for working at a Head Start Center
  1. Ability to adequately complete program records and reports, organize time and materials effectively, understand written program materials

Benefits

Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-Term & Long-Term Disability Insurance, Employee Assistance Plan.


Pay for this position is based on education credentials and experience.

The Springfield Urban League, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.