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Para Educator

Ampersand Therapy
Joliet, IL Full Time
POSTED ON 8/5/2025
AVAILABLE BEFORE 10/4/2025

Paraprofessional (Full-Time, In-Person – Elementary & Jr. High Options) – 2025–2026 School Year
Ampersand Therapy is hiring Behavior Support Specialists to join our school-based team for the 2025–2026 school year. This is a full-time, in-person role with opportunities to work 1:1 or as a classroom aide in elementary and junior high school settings.

As a therapist-founded company, Ampersand Therapy centers the experiences of school-based professionals. We offer strong mentorship, responsive support, and a workplace culture built on care, inclusion, and professional respect.

Position Details
Schedule: Full-Time (in-person only)
Location: Elementary and Jr. High Schools options available!
Start Date: August 2025
Student Needs: Autism support, behavioral challenges, social-communication needs
Settings: 1:1 support and classroom-based roles available!

Your Key Responsibilities

  • Provide 1:1 and small group behavioral support to students with autism and/or other behavioral challenges
  • Implement behavior strategies and accommodations designed by educators and behavior specialists
  • Foster an inclusive, positive classroom environment
  • Support students' social-emotional and academic development
  • Communicate professionally with teachers, school teams, and families
  • Maintain accurate and timely documentation

Qualifications

  • In-person applicants only
  • Associate Degree (AA) required
  • Previous school experience strongly preferred
  • Experience supporting students with behavioral or social-communication disabilities required
  • Must pass a criminal background check

*

Physical Requirements

  • Occasionally: Sit/stand, reach above shoulder level, stoop/bend, climb stairs, repetitive arm/hand motions
  • Occasionally/Frequently: Lift and/or carry up to 50 lbs., push/pull, twist, squat/crouch
  • Frequently/Continuously: Lift and/or carry up to 10 lbs.
  • Continuously: Handle/grasp

Why Join Ampersand Therapy?
We’re a women- and therapist-founded company designed to support school-based professionals. Our team is small, responsive, and deeply committed to your success.

Benefits & Perks (for 0.8 FTE and higher):

  • Paid sick leave
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Professional development and licensing reimbursements
  • Paid volunteer time
  • Mileage reimbursement
  • W-2 employment
  • Referral bonuses
  • No non-compete clauses

An Inclusive Workplace
Ampersand Therapy is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We welcome candidates of every race, gender identity, sexual orientation, background, and ability status.

Apply Today!
If you're a compassionate professional with behavioral experience and a heart for working with students—we’d love to connect. Apply today to join the Ampersand Therapy team for the 2025–2026 school year!

Job Types: Full-time, Contract

Pay: $20.00 - $32.00 per hour

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Health insurance
  • Professional development assistance
  • Relocation assistance

Schedule:

  • Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

Salary : $20 - $32

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