Wake County Public School System·Cary, North Carolina
The instructional assistant provides one-on-one and small group support to special education students to reinforce learning and implement Individual Education Plans. They also assist teachers with classroom management, data collection, and the creation of instructional materials.
Overview POSITION TITLE (Oracle title) INSTRUCTIONAL ASSISTANT WORKING TITLE Instructional Assistant-Preschool Special Education SCHOOL/DEPARTMENT Office of Early Learning LOCATION School Site PAY GRADE Noncertified Grade 21 FLSA STATUS Nonexempt ELIGIBILITY FOR EMPLOYMENT CONTRACT No WORK WEEK SCHEDULE Monday-Friday (occasional evenings and weekends) POSITION PURPOSE: Under general supervision, performs a variety of instructional, technical and clerical tasks to assist a licensed classroom teacher. Completes a wide range of tasks in order to meet the needs of all students and ensure quality instruction. Assists the classroom teacher by providing one-on-one assistance to address academic, functional or behavioral issues. Provides support with instructional programs relating to special education students and their Individual Education Plans (IEP).
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES (KSAs) Considerable knowledge of classroom activities and routines; Considerable knowledge of Microsoft Office, specifically Microsoft Word, Excel, and Power Point; Google Apps; Working knowledge of effective methods for instructing special education students; Excellent customer service skills and organizational skills; Ability to communicate clearly and concisely both in oral and written form using a variety of communication techniques and tools to ensure the appropriate flow of information, collaborative efforts, and feedback; Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with school system staff and parents/guardians. EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE High school diploma or equivalent, and shall hold or be working towards an associate or bachelor’s degree in any field; OR 48 hours of college semester credits as evidence through transcript; OR 96 Professional Development hours and the successful completion of the Work Keys Assessments. CERTIFICATION AND LICENSE REQUIREMENTS None
Experience working as a special education services teacher assistant; CPR and First Aid certification. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Follows all rules, policies and procedures of Wake County Public School System (WCPSS) along with state and federal regulations pertaining to special education services. Works with individual students or small groups of students to reinforce learning of skills introduced by the teacher. Assists the teacher in devising special strategies for reinforcing skills based on student individual needs, interests, and abilities. Assists with implementing any behavior intervention plans under the direction of the teacher and/or district staff. Assists the teacher by creating and modifying instructional materials to match student abilities. Monitors student behavior and assist with maintaining a structured classroom environment by providing positive reinforcement or redirection, as necessary. May accompany student(s) to special area classes or electives. Monitors the safety and well-being of students. Collaborates with teacher to understand the needs of each student. Performs clerical duties, as needed; collects data under the direction of the teacher, develops and maintains classroom displays. Maintains confidentiality of student information. Participates in professional development and trainings to maintain knowledge base and obtain skills needed to work with special education students. Performs other related duties, as assigned. WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS This job operates in a classroom environment and requires sitting and standing throughout the day. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, scanners, and copiers. The position, at times, must be able to come into direct contact with school system staff, staff members of external funding agencies, and the community. Work is considered medium physical work, requiring the exertion of up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects. EFFECTIVE DATE: 10/2024 DISCLAIMER: The above statements are intended to describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this position. They are not intended to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required by the employees assigned to this position. This description may be revised by HR and approved at any time.
Candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent, along with either an associate or bachelor's degree, 48 college semester credits, or 96 professional development hours. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Apps is required, and experience in special education is preferred.
Market context
In North Carolina, classroom teacher roles tied to autism support often reflect steady demand in schools and related programs, especially for candidates who can work consistently with children and follow structured support plans. These roles can be competitive because employers look for reliability, transportation, a valid driver’s license, and readiness to complete paid RBT training. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm the schedule, setting, and training expectations before applying.