Paraprofessional Jobs Available Now Across the United States

According to the U.S. Department of Education, paraprofessionals serve in a wide variety of instructional and support roles across public schools, private institutions, and healthcare settings. The demand for qualified paraprofessionals continues to grow as districts expand special education services and student support programs nationwide.

Special Education Paraprofessional

Provide one on one or small group support to students with disabilities under the direction of a special education teacher

Instructional Assistant

Support classroom teachers with instruction, lesson preparation, and student engagement in general education settings

Behavioral Paraprofessional

Assist students with behavioral challenges by implementing individualized behavior intervention plans

Early Childhood Paraprofessional

Support young learners in pre K and kindergarten programs, often within Head Start or Title I schools

Healthcare Paraprofessional

Work alongside licensed medical professionals in hospitals, clinics, or rehabilitation centers in a supportive capacity

Bilingual Paraprofessional

Provide language support and translation assistance to English language learners and their families

Federal Qualification Requirements for Paraprofessionals

According to the U.S. Department of Education, paraprofessionals employed in Title I programs must meet specific qualification standards established by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). These requirements ensure that students in federally funded schools receive support from competent, trained professionals.

High School Diploma or GED

Required as a baseline qualification under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)

48 College Credit Hours

One of the accepted pathways to meet the "highly qualified" standard under federal Title I guidelines

Associate's Degree or Higher

Qualifies as meeting the paraprofessional competency standard per ESSA requirements

Formal Assessment

Passing a state or district approved assessment demonstrating knowledge and skills, as an alternative to college credits

Background Check

Required by all states for anyone working with minors in public school settings

Source: U.S. Department of Education, Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), Title I Paraprofessional Requirements

Paraprofessional Salaries and Pay Rates

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program, pay for paraprofessionals varies depending on specialization, location, and employer type. The following figures reflect approximate national ranges for common paraprofessional roles.

Role	Low End	Median	High End
Instructional Aide	$13/hr	$16/hr	$20/hr
Special Education Para	$15/hr	$18/hr	$24/hr
Behavioral Paraprofessional	$16/hr	$20/hr	$26/hr
Bilingual Paraprofessional	$17/hr	$21/hr	$28/hr
Healthcare Paraprofessional	$15/hr	$19/hr	$25/hr

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. Figures are approximate national averages and may vary by state, district, and experience level.

Who Hires Paraprofessionals?

Paraprofessionals are employed across education, behavioral health, and healthcare. The following sectors represent the largest and most consistent employers of paraprofessional talent across the United States.

Public School Districts

K12 Education

Instructional Aide, Special Ed Para, Title I Support

Charter School Networks

K12 Education

Paraprofessional, Behavioral Technician, Classroom Assistant

Head Start Programs

Early Childhood

Early Childhood Para, Family Support Worker, Classroom Aide

ABA Therapy Clinics

Behavioral Health

Behavior Technician, RBT, Paraprofessional Therapist

Hospitals and Rehab Centers

Healthcare

Patient Care Tech, Therapy Aide, Healthcare Para

Private Special Ed Schools

Special Education

Residential Paraprofessional, Life Skills Assistant

Credentials That Strengthen Your Paraprofessional Application

While a high school diploma is the baseline requirement for most paraprofessional positions, earning additional credentials demonstrates commitment and can lead to higher pay and more specialized roles. The following certifications are widely recognized by school districts and healthcare employers.

Registered Behavior Technician: RBT

Issued by: Behavior Analyst Certification Board: BACB

A widely recognized entry level credential for paraprofessionals working in ABA therapy and behavioral support roles. Required by many employers in the behavioral health and special education fields.

ParaPro Assessment

Issued by: Educational Testing Service: ETS

Accepted by many states and school districts as proof of competency for Title I paraprofessionals. Covers reading, writing, mathematics, and the application of skills in the classroom.

Special Education Paraprofessional Certificate

Issued by: State Departments of Education: SDE, varies by state

Many states offer their own paraprofessional certification programs. These credentials are often required or preferred for positions in public special education classrooms.

CPR and First Aid Certification

Issued by: American Red Cross / American Heart Association

Frequently required by school districts and healthcare employers for paraprofessionals who work directly with students or patients who may have medical needs.

Career Growth for Paraprofessionals

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, the paraprofessional field offers meaningful pathways for career advancement. Many paraprofessionals use their classroom experience as a springboard into teaching, school counseling, behavioral therapy, or educational administration.

Entry Level Para

Classroom aide or one on one student support

Senior Paraprofessional

Lead small groups, mentor new aides

Lead Paraeducator

Coordinate para teams and student caseloads

Teacher or Specialist

Advance into licensed teaching or therapy roles

Paraprofessionals and the IDEA

According to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), as published by the U.S. Department of Education, paraprofessionals who are appropriately trained and supervised may assist in the delivery of special education and related services. This means that paraprofessionals play a legally recognized and critical role in supporting students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

Schools receiving federal IDEA funding are required to ensure that paraprofessionals supporting students with disabilities are adequately trained for their specific responsibilities. This creates strong, consistent demand for qualified paraprofessionals in public schools nationwide.

Tips for Landing a Paraprofessional Job

Highlight Experience Working With Children or Vulnerable Populations

Any prior experience in childcare, tutoring, coaching, volunteering, or caregiving strengthens your application significantly. Employers look for candidates who are patient, empathetic, and comfortable in support roles.

Obtain the ParaPro Assessment or State Equivalent

Earning a recognized competency credential before applying can set you apart from other candidates. Many districts list it as preferred or required for Title I positions. Contact ETS or your state Department of Education for testing information.

Emphasize Flexibility and Teamwork

Paraprofessionals must adapt to diverse students, varying schedules, and different classroom environments. Demonstrating flexibility, a collaborative mindset, and willingness to follow the lead of supervising teachers and clinicians is essential.

Apply Directly to School Districts

Many districts post paraprofessional openings on their own websites in addition to job boards. Submitting a direct application to your local district human resources office can give your candidacy an advantage and connect you with multiple openings at once.

Frequently Asked Questions About Paraprofessional Jobs

What is a paraprofessional?

A paraprofessional is a trained aide who supports licensed professionals such as teachers, therapists, or medical providers. In education, paraprofessionals are also called paraeducators, teacher aides, or instructional assistants. According to the U.S. Department of Education, paraprofessionals in Title I schools must meet specific qualification standards under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) to ensure quality support for students.

What qualifications do I need to become a paraprofessional?

According to the U.S. Department of Education, paraprofessionals working in Title I programs must hold a high school diploma or GED, and demonstrate competency either by completing at least two years of college study, holding an associate's degree or higher, or passing a rigorous state or local academic assessment. Requirements vary by state and school district, so checking with your local district is recommended.

How much do paraprofessionals earn?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for teacher assistants was approximately $30,000 to $35,000 per year, with hourly rates typically ranging from $13 to $24 depending on the role, location, and school district. Bilingual and behavioral paraprofessionals often earn higher wages due to specialized skills.

Do paraprofessionals work full time or part time?

Both options exist. Many school based paraprofessional positions are part time, aligned with school hours and calendars. However, full time positions are available, particularly in special education, behavioral health, and healthcare settings. Full time roles often include benefits such as health insurance and retirement contributions.

Can a paraprofessional advance to become a teacher?

Yes. Many teachers began their careers as paraprofessionals. According to the U.S. Department of Education, paraprofessional experience is highly valued during teacher preparation programs and the hiring process. Several states offer alternative certification pathways specifically designed for working paraprofessionals who want to earn their teaching license while remaining employed.

Are paraprofessional jobs in demand?

Yes. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, employment of teacher assistants is projected to grow steadily, driven by increasing student enrollment, expansion of special education services, and the growing recognition of the impact paraprofessionals have on student outcomes. Districts across the country report ongoing shortages of qualified paraprofessionals.

Disclaimer: The qualification standards, salary data, and employment projections cited on this page are sourced from publicly available reports by the U.S. Department of Education, the U.S. Department of Labor, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Requirements for paraprofessional positions vary by state, school district, and employer. Always verify specific qualifications and job details directly with the hiring organization before applying. Oh My Job is an independent job search platform and aggregates listings from third party sources.