Special Education Instructional Assistant Jobs
Special education instructional assistant jobs are open across public K-12 schools, private special education centers, and early intervention programs, from entry-level aide to lead paraprofessional, with specializations in autism support, behavioral intervention, and life-skills instruction. Find a role that fits from the openings below and apply directly.
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Showing 5 of 157+ Special Education Instructional Assistant jobs
Job Title: Instructional Assistant II
Reports To/Supervisor: Campus Principal
Site Lead(s): N/A
Date Created/Updated: 7/24/2025
Classification: Part-time, Non-Exempt, Classified
Number of Working Days: 192 days
Work Calendar: 11 Month Hourly - 192 Days + 11 Holidays
Salary/Pay Rate: On the Instructional Assistant Pay Scale
About Us: California Montessori Project (CMP) is a successful public charter school network based in the greater Sacramento area with an exceptional TK-8 Montessori program that is tuition-free and open to all students. The network serves over 3,000 students on seven campuses. CMP is authorized through, and maintains strong relationships with four school districts: Elk Grove Unified School District, Sacramento City Unified School District, San Juan Unified School District and Buckeye Union School District.
CMP teachers are supported in pursuing dual-certification, holding a Montessori certification from an AMS-accredited training center and a California state credential. The CMP Leadership Team, including the Governing Board, Directors, Principals, and Deans, provide stability and focused guidance to the organization. CMP’s commitment to equity and student success is anchored in the frameworks of Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), which build sustainable systems and promote whole-child development.
CMP Mission: The Mission of the California Montessori Project is to provide a quality, tuition-free, TK-8, Montessori education that challenges our students to reach their full potential.
Summary/Objective
An Instructional Assistant II (IAII) reports to the Principal and is responsible for assisting in the classroom with all students, including special education and TKK students as needed. IAs work in collaboration with teachers and other school professionals and are crucial in creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment wherever assigned. An Instructional Assistant II will work closely with a wide range of ages and ability levels, supporting students in their academic and personal growth while working under the supervision of the site’s special education teacher. An Instructional Assistant II works with Sped and TKK students.
Essential Functions
- Contribute to the creation and maintenance of a safe and nurturing learning environment that promotes emotional well-being and academic growth.
- Foster a positive and inclusive classroom environment by promoting respect, understanding, and cooperation among all students, directing children in a positive and respectful environment.
- Monitor and observe the daily operation of classrooms for safety, positive interaction and productive educational activity.
- Participate in meetings with teachers and other school professionals to discuss student progress, goals, and strategies, as necessary.
- Assist in the preparation and organization of classroom materials, resources, and activities.
- Model appropriate social interactions with students and peers.
- Complete required reports related to accidents and injuries in accordance with school policies.
- Coordinate with teachers for homework club, tutoring, student educational needs and extracurricular activities as necessary.
- Notify Teacher and/or Administration of unusual circumstances to include infectious disease, injury, illness and accident.
- Adhere to state and government regulations appropriate to school operational procedures.
- Clean and sanitize all manipulative materials and apparatuses often (weekly).
- Maintain a neat and orderly classroom to include dusting, mopping and vacuuming as necessary.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
- Support students during instructional activities, ensuring they are engaged, on task, and comprehending the material being presented.
- Under the guidance of the Special Education Teacher and/or Classroom Teacher, may assist in modifying assignments and assessments, as needed, to accommodate individual student requirements.
- Assist the Special Education Teacher and/or Classroom Teacher in implementing individualized education plans (IEPs) and adapting curriculum materials to meet the diverse needs of students.
- Help manage classroom behavior by implementing strategies outlined in behavior intervention plans (BIPs), use Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) to help teach and reinforce desired behaviors, and effectively de-escalate tense situations.
- Maintain accurate records of student performance, behavior, and achievements, and contribute to progress reporting. Data collection will be supervised by case manager and/or CMP BCBA.
- Support students during assigned disciplinary measures, which may include in-house suspension and social isolation. Attentive supervision will contribute to maintaining a safe and conducive learning environment for all students involved.
- Provide one-on-one and small group support to students with special needs, including those with learning disabilities, behavioral challenges, and other exceptionalities under the supervision of the teacher.
- If assigned as a 1:1 instructional aide, provide support to a specific student, helping the student succeed in the classroom and ensuring access to the curriculum alongside their peers. Provide assistance with daily tasks, such as personal care, mobility, and transitioning between activities.
- Complete the required toileting training and provide toileting support according to the guidelines for students as necessary.
- Coordinate with other IAs throughout the day to support the needs of multiple students when necessary.
- Attend relevant professional development opportunities to enhance your skills and stay up to date with best practices in special education.
- May be required to independently supervise small or large groups of students for brief periods (e.g., during lunch, recess, or transitions) without direct support from another adult.
Competencies
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with students, teachers, and other professionals.
- Empathy, patience, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of students with diverse abilities.
- Ability to follow and implement instructions from teachers and specialists accurately.
- Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical guidelines in working with sensitive information.
Supervisory Responsibilities
None
Work Environment
- Classroom Environment: This role often works in classrooms where conditions can vary. This may include exposure to noise, varying levels of student engagement, and the need to adapt to changing circumstances.
- Emotional Demands: Working with students who have special needs can be emotionally demanding but also incredibly rewarding. Special Education Teaching Assistants must remain patient, compassionate, and composed, even in challenging situations.
- Collaboration: Regular interaction and collaboration with teachers, therapists, and other professionals to implement individualized education plans (IEPs) and behavior intervention plans (BIPS) to support students effectively.
- Professional Development: Ongoing learning and development to stay updated with best practices in special education, behavior management techniques, and educational technology.
Physical Demands
The role of an Instructional Assistant II involves various physical demands due to the nature of working with students. These demands may include:
- Mobility: Moving around the classroom, assisting students with mobility challenges, and transitioning between activities.
- Lifting: Occasionally lifting and assisting students with physical disabilities, as well as lifting and arranging classroom materials.
- Sitting and Standing: Engaging with students, teachers, and activities while both sitting and standing for extended periods.
- Physical Assistance: Providing support with personal care tasks, which might involve assisting with feeding, toileting, and other activities of daily living.
- Adapting to Student Needs: Quickly responding to unexpected situations, such as helping a student who is experiencing a behavioral challenge.
Safety Measures
- Safety Protocols: Following established safety protocols and guidelines to ensure the physical and emotional well-being of all students.
- Proper Techniques: Utilizing appropriate techniques for assisting students with physical disabilities or behavioral challenges to prevent injury to both students and staff.
- Health Considerations: Adhering to health and hygiene standards and being mindful of any allergies or medical conditions that students may have.
Travel Requirements
Minimal or None
Required Education and Experience
Associates Degree, 48 college educational units, or the ability to pass a paraprofessional exam
Preferred Education and Experience
- Special Education, or related field
- Montessori experience
Compensation and Benefits
- Time Off: Sick leave, paid holidays, vacation (as applicable by position)
- Retirement: 403(b) and 457 retirement plans through CalSTRS Pension2 according to California state law, California Education code and CMP policy.
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance for Full Time Positions: Comprehensive coverage for you and your eligible dependents.
- Childcare Support: Access to free before and after care through Club M for employees with students enrolled at a CMP campus (subject to availability; application fees apply).
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): Options for health care and dependent care.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support for personal or work-related challenges.
- Mental Health Support: Access to Nivati, a mental health platform offering counseling, coaching, and wellness tools.
AAP/EEO Statement: It is the policy of California Montessori Project to provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. This policy applies to all employment practices including recruitment, hiring, compensation, promotion, training, and termination.
Other Duties: This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.
Placement for this position will be on the IA II (SpED/TK) Column.
Creditable Service for Instructional Assistant
Instructional Assistant Salary Scale allows for:
- 1 step for every year of full time, full year, equivalent experience, max of 8 years
Montessori Credits:
- Montessori applies only to fully completed certificate programs from accredited Montessori training centers.
Steps
IA I
IA I w/ Montessori
Credential
IA II
(Sped/TK)
IA III
(Sped)
1
$19.50
$20.50
$21.50
$23.50
2
$19.75
$20.75
$21.75
$23.75
3
$20.00
$21.00
$22.00
$24.00
4
$20.25
$21.25
$22.25
$24.25
5
$20.50
$21.50
$22.50
$24.50
6
$20.75
$21.75
$22.75
$24.75
7
$21.00
$22.00
$23.00
$25.00
8
$21.25
$22.25
$23.25
$25.25
9
$21.50
$22.50
$23.50
$25.50
10
$21.75
$22.75
$23.75
$25.75
11
$22.00
$23.00
$24.00
$26.00
12
$22.25
$23.25
$24.25
$26.25
13
$22.50
$23.50
$24.50
$26.50
14
$22.75
$23.75
$24.75
$26.75
15
$23.00
$24.00
$25.00
$27.00
16
$23.25
$24.25
$25.25
$27.25
17
$23.50
$24.50
$25.50
$27.50
18
$23.75
$24.75
$25.75
$27.75
19
$24.00
$25.00
$26.00
$28.00
20
$24.25
$25.25
$26.25
$28.25
21
$24.50
$25.50
$26.50
$28.50
22
$24.75
$25.75
$26.75
$28.75
23
$25.00
$26.00
$27.00
$29.00
24
$25.25
$26.25
$27.25
$29.25
25
$25.50
$26.50
$27.50
$29.50
26
$25.75
$26.75
$27.75
$29.75
Job Title: Instructional Assistant II
Reports To/Supervisor: Campus Principal
Site Lead(s): N/A
Date Created/Updated: 7/24/2025
Classification: Part-time, Non-Exempt, Classified
Number of Working Days: 192 days
Work Calendar: 11 Month Hourly - 192 Days + 11 Holidays
Salary/Pay Rate: On the Instructional Assistant Pay Scale
About Us: California Montessori Project (CMP) is a successful public charter school network based in the greater Sacramento area with an exceptional TK-8 Montessori program that is tuition-free and open to all students. The network serves over 3,000 students on seven campuses. CMP is authorized through, and maintains strong relationships with four school districts: Elk Grove Unified School District, Sacramento City Unified School District, San Juan Unified School District and Buckeye Union School District.
CMP teachers are supported in pursuing dual-certification, holding a Montessori certification from an AMS-accredited training center and a California state credential. The CMP Leadership Team, including the Governing Board, Directors, Principals, and Deans, provide stability and focused guidance to the organization. CMP’s commitment to equity and student success is anchored in the frameworks of Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), which build sustainable systems and promote whole-child development.
CMP Mission: The Mission of the California Montessori Project is to provide a quality, tuition-free, TK-8, Montessori education that challenges our students to reach their full potential.
Summary/Objective
An Instructional Assistant II (IAII) reports to the Principal and is responsible for assisting in the classroom with all students, including special education and TKK students as needed. IAs work in collaboration with teachers and other school professionals and are crucial in creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment wherever assigned. An Instructional Assistant II will work closely with a wide range of ages and ability levels, supporting students in their academic and personal growth while working under the supervision of the site’s special education teacher. An Instructional Assistant II works with Sped and TKK students.
Essential Functions
- Contribute to the creation and maintenance of a safe and nurturing learning environment that promotes emotional well-being and academic growth.
- Foster a positive and inclusive classroom environment by promoting respect, understanding, and cooperation among all students, directing children in a positive and respectful environment.
- Monitor and observe the daily operation of classrooms for safety, positive interaction and productive educational activity.
- Participate in meetings with teachers and other school professionals to discuss student progress, goals, and strategies, as necessary.
- Assist in the preparation and organization of classroom materials, resources, and activities.
- Model appropriate social interactions with students and peers.
- Complete required reports related to accidents and injuries in accordance with school policies.
- Coordinate with teachers for homework club, tutoring, student educational needs and extracurricular activities as necessary.
- Notify Teacher and/or Administration of unusual circumstances to include infectious disease, injury, illness and accident.
- Adhere to state and government regulations appropriate to school operational procedures.
- Clean and sanitize all manipulative materials and apparatuses often (weekly).
- Maintain a neat and orderly classroom to include dusting, mopping and vacuuming as necessary.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
- Support students during instructional activities, ensuring they are engaged, on task, and comprehending the material being presented.
- Under the guidance of the Special Education Teacher and/or Classroom Teacher, may assist in modifying assignments and assessments, as needed, to accommodate individual student requirements.
- Assist the Special Education Teacher and/or Classroom Teacher in implementing individualized education plans (IEPs) and adapting curriculum materials to meet the diverse needs of students.
- Help manage classroom behavior by implementing strategies outlined in behavior intervention plans (BIPs), use Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) to help teach and reinforce desired behaviors, and effectively de-escalate tense situations.
- Maintain accurate records of student performance, behavior, and achievements, and contribute to progress reporting. Data collection will be supervised by case manager and/or CMP BCBA.
- Support students during assigned disciplinary measures, which may include in-house suspension and social isolation. Attentive supervision will contribute to maintaining a safe and conducive learning environment for all students involved.
- Provide one-on-one and small group support to students with special needs, including those with learning disabilities, behavioral challenges, and other exceptionalities under the supervision of the teacher.
- If assigned as a 1:1 instructional aide, provide support to a specific student, helping the student succeed in the classroom and ensuring access to the curriculum alongside their peers. Provide assistance with daily tasks, such as personal care, mobility, and transitioning between activities.
- Complete the required toileting training and provide toileting support according to the guidelines for students as necessary.
- Coordinate with other IAs throughout the day to support the needs of multiple students when necessary.
- Attend relevant professional development opportunities to enhance your skills and stay up to date with best practices in special education.
- May be required to independently supervise small or large groups of students for brief periods (e.g., during lunch, recess, or transitions) without direct support from another adult.
Competencies
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with students, teachers, and other professionals.
- Empathy, patience, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of students with diverse abilities.
- Ability to follow and implement instructions from teachers and specialists accurately.
- Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical guidelines in working with sensitive information.
Supervisory Responsibilities
None
Work Environment
- Classroom Environment: This role often works in classrooms where conditions can vary. This may include exposure to noise, varying levels of student engagement, and the need to adapt to changing circumstances.
- Emotional Demands: Working with students who have special needs can be emotionally demanding but also incredibly rewarding. Special Education Teaching Assistants must remain patient, compassionate, and composed, even in challenging situations.
- Collaboration: Regular interaction and collaboration with teachers, therapists, and other professionals to implement individualized education plans (IEPs) and behavior intervention plans (BIPS) to support students effectively.
- Professional Development: Ongoing learning and development to stay updated with best practices in special education, behavior management techniques, and educational technology.
Physical Demands
The role of an Instructional Assistant II involves various physical demands due to the nature of working with students. These demands may include:
- Mobility: Moving around the classroom, assisting students with mobility challenges, and transitioning between activities.
- Lifting: Occasionally lifting and assisting students with physical disabilities, as well as lifting and arranging classroom materials.
- Sitting and Standing: Engaging with students, teachers, and activities while both sitting and standing for extended periods.
- Physical Assistance: Providing support with personal care tasks, which might involve assisting with feeding, toileting, and other activities of daily living.
- Adapting to Student Needs: Quickly responding to unexpected situations, such as helping a student who is experiencing a behavioral challenge.
Safety Measures
- Safety Protocols: Following established safety protocols and guidelines to ensure the physical and emotional well-being of all students.
- Proper Techniques: Utilizing appropriate techniques for assisting students with physical disabilities or behavioral challenges to prevent injury to both students and staff.
- Health Considerations: Adhering to health and hygiene standards and being mindful of any allergies or medical conditions that students may have.
Travel Requirements
Minimal or None
Required Education and Experience
Associates Degree, 48 college educational units, or the ability to pass a paraprofessional exam
Preferred Education and Experience
- Special Education, or related field
- Montessori experience
Compensation and Benefits
- Time Off: Sick leave, paid holidays, vacation (as applicable by position)
- Retirement: 403(b) and 457 retirement plans through CalSTRS Pension2 according to California state law, California Education code and CMP policy.
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance for Full Time Positions: Comprehensive coverage for you and your eligible dependents.
- Childcare Support: Access to free before and after care through Club M for employees with students enrolled at a CMP campus (subject to availability; application fees apply).
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): Options for health care and dependent care.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support for personal or work-related challenges.
- Mental Health Support: Access to Nivati, a mental health platform offering counseling, coaching, and wellness tools.
AAP/EEO Statement: It is the policy of California Montessori Project to provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. This policy applies to all employment practices including recruitment, hiring, compensation, promotion, training, and termination.
Other Duties: This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.
Placement for this position will be on the IA II (SpED/TK) Column.
Creditable Service for Instructional Assistant
Instructional Assistant Salary Scale allows for:
- 1 step for every year of full time, full year, equivalent experience, max of 8 years
Montessori Credits:
- Montessori applies only to fully completed certificate programs from accredited Montessori training centers.
Steps
IA I
IA I w/ Montessori
Credential
IA II
(Sped/TK)
IA III
(Sped)
1
$19.50
$20.50
$21.50
$23.50
2
$19.75
$20.75
$21.75
$23.75
3
$20.00
$21.00
$22.00
$24.00
4
$20.25
$21.25
$22.25
$24.25
5
$20.50
$21.50
$22.50
$24.50
6
$20.75
$21.75
$22.75
$24.75
7
$21.00
$22.00
$23.00
$25.00
8
$21.25
$22.25
$23.25
$25.25
9
$21.50
$22.50
$23.50
$25.50
10
$21.75
$22.75
$23.75
$25.75
11
$22.00
$23.00
$24.00
$26.00
12
$22.25
$23.25
$24.25
$26.25
13
$22.50
$23.50
$24.50
$26.50
14
$22.75
$23.75
$24.75
$26.75
15
$23.00
$24.00
$25.00
$27.00
16
$23.25
$24.25
$25.25
$27.25
17
$23.50
$24.50
$25.50
$27.50
18
$23.75
$24.75
$25.75
$27.75
19
$24.00
$25.00
$26.00
$28.00
20
$24.25
$25.25
$26.25
$28.25
21
$24.50
$25.50
$26.50
$28.50
22
$24.75
$25.75
$26.75
$28.75
23
$25.00
$26.00
$27.00
$29.00
24
$25.25
$26.25
$27.25
$29.25
25
$25.50
$26.50
$27.50
$29.50
26
$25.75
$26.75
$27.75
$29.75
See All 157+ Special Education Instructional Assistant Jobs
Jump back to the full list of openings and apply to any special education instructional assistant role that fits.
Find JobsSpecial Education Instructional Assistant Job Market
A snapshot from current openings nationwide, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- IDEA Public Schools80
- Chicago Public Schools37
- Albemarle County Public Schools8
- Ahrc Nyc5
- Austin Independent School District3
Top Industries Hiring
- Education138
- Healthcare & Medical Services5
- Science & Research1
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in special education instructional assistant jobs.
- Experience supporting students with disabilities in a classroom or therapeutic setting
- Familiarity with individualized education programs and IEP goal documentation
- High school diploma or equivalent with some college coursework preferred
- Ability to implement Applied Behavior Analysis or positive behavioral support strategies
- Current or eligible for a state paraprofessional or educational aide certification
- Physical ability to assist with student mobility, positioning, and personal care tasks
Tips for Your Special Education Instructional Assistant Job Search
Tailor your resume for IEP support
Hiring managers scan for direct references to individualized education program support. List specific disabilities you've worked with, the behavioral or instructional strategies you used, and any data-collection systems you maintained for progress monitoring.
Earn a paraprofessional certification before applying
Many districts require a ParaPro Assessment score or a state-issued paraprofessional certificate before they'll interview you. Completing one before you apply removes a common screening-stage rejection and shows you're ready to work in a federally funded special education classroom.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists special education instructional assistant openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Filter by disability category in your search
Job postings often specify the student population, such as autism spectrum, emotional and behavioral disorders, or multiple disabilities. Matching your hands-on experience to those exact categories in your application letter increases your callback rate over a generic submission.
Prepare scenario answers around de-escalation
Interviewers almost always ask how you've handled a student in crisis or a behavioral escalation. Practice a concrete example using a structured format: what the trigger was, the strategy you used, and the outcome for the student, without disclosing names.
Negotiate schedule and caseload, not just pay
Before accepting an offer, ask how many students you'll support at once, whether you'll float between classrooms or stay with one group, and what professional development is provided. Caseload size and role clarity affect burnout far more than starting rate.
Special Education Instructional Assistant Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most special education instructional assistants?
The companies hiring the most special education instructional assistants right now include IDEA Public Schools, Chicago Public Schools, and Albemarle County Public Schools, with the largest share of openings in Texas, Illinois, and Virginia, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of June 2026. School districts and special education service providers account for the majority of active postings.
How many special education instructional assistant jobs are remote?
About 0% of special education instructional assistant openings are fully remote or hybrid as of June 2026, reflecting the hands-on nature of most roles. The sub-areas most likely to offer remote or telehealth components include behavioral consultation support, curriculum adaptation, and administrative coordination for special education programs.
How do you become a special education instructional assistant?
Start by earning a high school diploma and completing any college credits required in your state, since many districts require at least 48 semester hours or an associate degree. Take the ParaPro Assessment or your state's equivalent paraprofessional exam, then apply to openings that match your experience with specific disability populations such as autism, emotional and behavioral disorders, or developmental delays.
Can you get hired as a special education instructional assistant with no experience?
Yes, many entry-level paraprofessional roles accept candidates with no paid experience if you demonstrate relevant unpaid exposure such as volunteer work, student teaching, childcare, or caregiving for a family member with a disability. Highlighting crisis prevention training, CPR certification, or coursework in child development strengthens an application when paid experience is limited.
What does the special education instructional assistant interview process look like?
Most hiring processes include a phone or video screening with HR, followed by an in-person interview with a special education coordinator or principal that focuses on scenario-based questions about student behavior, IEP implementation, and communication with teachers. Some districts add a brief classroom observation or a written exercise asking you to describe how you'd support a student with a specific need.
Where can I find and apply to special education instructional assistant jobs?
You can find and apply to special education instructional assistant jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from across the United States. Search for roles that match your experience level and preferred location, then apply directly to each listing that fits.
See All 157+ Special Education Instructional Assistant Jobs
Jump back to the full list of openings and apply to any special education instructional assistant role that fits.
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