Support students with intellectual disabilities, autism, and behavioral challenges by assisting teachers in implementing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). Provide direct one-on-one or small-group instructional support and assist with daily living activities and personal care.
Requirements summary
Candidates must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma and either 48 college credits or the ability to complete paraprofessional certification. Must be eligible for State Police, Child Abuse, and FBI background clearances.
high schoolprofessional certificateTeamworkCommunicationAdaptabilityPatienceClassroom ManagementInstructional SupportStudent MonitoringIEP ImplementationBehavioral StrategiesSpecial Education Support
Job description
Sign-On
$1,000
Schedule: 8:15 am – 3:15 pm,
Monday -
Friday (School
Year and
Extended
School
Year)
Summary: At the Elizabeth Lee Black School, we believe every student has the right to an education and success. Our school provides individualized, high-quality education in a supportive and structured environment. If you are passionate about education and want to be part of a team dedicated to helping children thrive, we encourage you to apply today! As a Teacher’s Assistant / Para Educator, you will play a key role in supporting students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, and behavioral challenges. You will assist teachers in implementing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), provide direct student support, and help create an engaging learning experience.
What
You’ll
Bring: A passion for working with children and making a positive impact in their education. Strong communication and teamwork skills to collaborate with teachers, therapists, and families. Patience, adaptability, and enthusiasm for supporting students with diverse learning needs. A commitment to fostering a safe, structured, and inclusive learning environment.
What
You’ll
Have: Must be 18 years of age High school diploma and ability to complete the paraprofessional certification or 48 college credit hours earned. Experience working with children, particularly in a special education setting, is a plus. Ability to assist with classroom management, instructional support, and behavioral strategies. Eligibility for State Police Criminal Check, Child Abuse History Clearance, and FBI PDE Clearance (FBI Aging Clearance required for individuals who do not meet PA residency requirements).
A
Typical
Day
May
Include: Assisting teachers in implementing lesson plans tailored to students’ individual needs. Providing one-on-one or small-group support to reinforce learning. Supporting students in developing social, behavioral, and academic skills. Helping students with daily living activities and personal care, as needed. Assisting with classroom organization, materials preparation, and record-keeping. Monitoring student progress and communicating observations with the teacher. Encouraging student engagement and participation in educational activities. Monitoring and reporting behavioral concerns when situations arise. Perks with a Purpose Our benefits are created with YOU in mind. Healthcare
Employee discounts for select BNI events and services
Generous Paid Time Off Who is Barber National Institute? The Barber National Institute is a non-profit committed to its mission of providing the highest quality services for children and adults with autism, intellectual disabilities or behavioral health challenges and their families. Since our founding in 1952, we have evolved into a multi-faceted organization serving more than 6,200 individuals annually with a wide range of educational, vocational, residential and behavioral health programs. We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status. If you need an accommodation to apply, please contact HR. EOE Any consideration of the background check will be an individualized assessment based on the applicant or employee’s specific record and the duties and requirements of the specific job.
Market context
Classroom teacher roles remain competitive in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, classroom teacher openings often draw candidates with early-childhood or childcare experience, especially when child development knowledge and classroom routines are part of the role. These positions can be competitive because employers look for strong organization, communication, time management, and current First Aid/CPR certification. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to quickly compare fit, then confirm the original posting for any credential or schedule details before applying.
