The Teaching Assistant provides hands-on instructional support to students and assists teachers in maintaining a positive classroom environment. They also manage behavioral crises using therapeutic techniques and ensure all required documentation is completed accurately.
We are offering a $1,500 sign on bonus for all teaching assistant positions!
The Teaching Assistant I works with the Teacher and other school staff to maintain a positive classroom learning environment. This position supports the academic, emotional, and social growth of students by providing additional hands-on guidance that aid in the treatment and care of youth. The Teaching Assistant I receives mentorship from Teaching Assistant II and III staff and performs job requirements with significant guidance.
Essential Job Functions
Provide hands-on support to individual students or groups of students requiring special education by reviewing and clarifying lessons and resources.
Share observations of assigned student learning and behavior patterns with the classroom teacher to aid in the devlopment of specialized teaching plans and learning experiences.
Assist classroom teachers with instructional resources preparation.
Utilize learned Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) techniques to effectively plan for the prevention of and manage behavioral crises.
Provide direct classroom instruction in the event of a teacher’s absence.
Work with team members to set, implement, and evaluate Individual Education Plans, Behavior Intervention Plans, and Proactive Safety Plans.
Monitor students in class, between classes, during recreation periods and field trips.
Develop, maintain, and update all required documentation in a timely and compliant manner.
While this job description covers many aspects of the role, employees may be required to perform other duties as assigned.
Special Requirements
Valid New York State Certification as a Teaching Assistant Level I within 6 months of hire AND obtainment of a NYS Certification as a Teaching Assistant Level III within 5 years of Level I certification.
Unrestricted, valid NYS driver’s license for minimum of 1 year with a clean driving record and minimum insurance coverage that meets agency standards.
Must be able to work 12 month schedule
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
In addition to demonstrating the Hillside Professional Competencies of Communicates Effectively, Personal Excellence, Cultural Competence, Builds and Leverages Relationships, and Optimizes Decision Making, the following occupational competencies must be demonstrated:
Understanding of safety protocols and procedures to ensure the well-being of students in the classroom and during school activities.
Ability to provide instructional support under the direction of the classroom teacher, including assisting with lesson preparation, material organization, and student supervision.
Ability to demonstrate empathy and patience when working with students, recognizing and respecting their individual differences and learning styles.
Ability to manage time effectively to prioritize tasks, follow classroom schedules, and assist with multiple responsibilities throughout the school day.
May be required to physically restrain clients weighing between 50 lbs. and 200 lbs. and guide them safely to the floor. In some circumstances, restraints can last up to 15 minutes and may require repetition as necessary.
$18.50 Minimum pay rate, $24.00 Maximum pay rate, based on experience.
At Hillside, we believe that healthy youth and strong families with opportunities to succeed are the foundation of any thriving community. Guided by this belief, we provide community-based services, education, and residential treatment to positively impact lives, in partnership with youth and families who have experienced trauma. From locations across Central & Western New York and Prince George’s County, Maryland, our programs serve nearly 10,000 youth, adults, and families each year.
Partnering with families and communities, we deliver high-quality, evidence-based services, in the appropriate settings — whether on residential campuses or in schools, homes, or the workplace. By measuring the impact of our work, we endeavor to deliver ever better outcomes every day.
Hillside is committed to equal opportunities for all, supporting a diverse workforce, creating development opportunities for our people. Hillside is an equal opportunity employer; individuals from underrepresented and/or marginalized identities, Veterans, and disabled persons are encouraged to apply. Upon request, reasonable accommodations will be provided for the disabled.
We offer a competitive benefits package to include generous paid time off, paid holidays, comprehensive medical, dental and vision coverage, flexible spending account, 403(b) retirement savings plan with employer match, and Employee Assistance Plan – just to name a few of the amazing benefits at Hillside! World changers and change makers join our talent community every day. Apply online, get on board, and grow your career with us!
Candidates must possess a High School Diploma or GED and obtain a New York State Teaching Assistant Level I certification within six months of hire. Additionally, a valid New York State driver's license and the ability to work a 12-month schedule are required.
Market context
Teaching assistant roles in New York are often tied to steady school and childcare staffing needs, especially where programs need support for classroom routines, supervision, and active play. These roles can be competitive because employers look for candidates who meet state or accreditation requirements and can handle both indoor and outdoor activity demands. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform to save research time, then confirm your education, experience, and physical readiness before applying.