First Children Services·Plainfield, New Jersey
The Instructional Paraprofessional assists the teacher with daily classroom routines and provides one-on-one instruction to students. They also ensure a safe environment and support the implementation of individualized education programs and therapy plans.
The Instructional Paraprofessional supports the Teacher by performing essential duties in the classroom, ensuring a safe and clean environment for all students. This role involves active participation in the educational and therapeutic programs under the Teacher's guidance. First Children School in Plainfield, NJ is a New Jersey Department of Education approved private special education school, serving students in grades PreK through high school. We specialize in educating students with multiple disabilities including those who are medically fragile, developmentally, intellectually, or physically disabled, deaf or hard of hearing, and/or visually impaired. Job Responsibilities:
Assist the Teacher with daily classroom activities and routines.
Provide one on one instruction as directed by the teacher.
Maintain a safe, clean, and organized classroom environment.
Support the implementation of individualized education programs (IEPs) and therapy plans.
Provide direct care and supervision to students, ensuring their safety and well-being.
Facilitate student engagement in educational and therapeutic activities.
Assist with physical needs, including feeding, toileting, and mobility as required.
Collaborate with the educational team to monitor and document student progress.
Participate in professional development and training sessions as required.
This role will be part of the instructional team, reporting to the school principal.
Basic
Qualifications:
High school diploma or equivalent.
Previous experience working with children, especially those with special needs, is highly desirable.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work collaboratively within a team environment.
Compassionate, patient, and dedicated to the well-being of students.
Must be able to read, write, speak, and understand English.
• Knowledge of American Sign Language (ASL) is a plus.
Our benefit package includes medical, dental, and vision plans, vacation/sick pay, life insurance, short & long-term disability, access to EAP and discount plans, 401(k) retirement plan, and employee referral bonus plan.
First Children Services is comprised of a dedicated team of professionals committed to providing the very best services day in and day out. We integrate a variety of effective techniques along with family involvement to achieve optimum results. At First Children Services, children and their families with the most extraordinary challenges are met with compassion, dedication and determination. EEO: First Children Services is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Our agency prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. First Children Services is committed to being an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer and offers opportunities to all job seekers including individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, email us at recruitment@firstchildrenservices.com. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition ID number of the position for which you are applying.
Candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent and the ability to work collaboratively in a team. Previous experience working with children, particularly those with special needs, is highly desirable.
Market context
Teaching assistant roles in New Jersey are often in steady demand in schools and early childhood settings, especially for candidates who can support classroom routines and child care needs. These positions can be competitive because employers look for empathy, reliability, and the ability to work independently, along with physical readiness to assist children safely. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this page to save research time, and confirm you can meet the lifting requirement before applying.