ABOUT THIS ROLE: The Instructional Teaching Assistant is responsible for maintaining genuine leadership and providing full-time support to the Lead Instructional Teaching Assistant and Special Education Teacher within the classrooms in accordance with state regulations, law, and HH's mission and policies. Ensuring goals are run for students in communication, health, positive behavior, self-reliance, and academics,  A commitment to working for a school and not just a classroom.

SCHEDULE AND COMPENSATION:

• On-site position, Monday - Friday
• 37.5 hours per week
• Salary range $20.75 - $22.00/hour (non-exempt).  
• Salary based on skills and experience.
• Up to 6% annual bonus potential.
• 403b retirement plan with up to a 4% company match.

ABOUT US: Helping Hand's mission is to transform the lives of all connected to Helping Hand through genuine care and education.  So that, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are equally valued in all communities!  Established in 1955, Helping Hand is proud to serve over 70 surrounding communities by providing accredited and licensed Adult Programs as well as an ISBE-approved non-public Therapeutic Day School. 

Helping Hand has been awarded "Best and Brightest Places to Work" for both Chicago and the Nation for 6 years in a row!  This award is a reflection of the incredible talent and commitment shown by our HH team members every day.

If you're ready to join our incredible team, apply today!

HELPING HAND PERKS:

• Traditional medical (BCBS of IL), dental, and vision insurance.
• Supplemental and voluntary benefit options available with employer-paid Group Life/AD&D, STD, and LTD.
• Paid School Break days
• Paid Holidays
• Paid personal days
• Accrued paid sick time
• Team member appreciation events and recognition throughout the year
• Tuition reimbursement
• Employee Assistance Programs

A TYPICAL DAY FOR YOU AT HH:

• Work with and assist the students both 1:1 or in groups with assignments and tasks.
• Implement strategies as outlined in the student’s IEP and behavior plan.
• Assists with the supervision of students during snack/lunch, physical/sensory activities, bus duty, and community outings.
• Assist the student in daily living and educational tasks, including structured teaching strategies, toileting and feeding if needed.
• Promote communication and social skills.
• Interact with all the students in a therapeutic and positive manner.
• Assist the teacher in preparing the classroom for the next day’s activities by preparing materials, cleaning materials, organizing the room, completing data charts and other tasks as assigned by the teacher.
• Counsel students as needed regarding their progress.
• Guides students in developing positive relationships with peers and adults.
• Notifies the teacher of any concerns regarding the student or team members.
• Assists in maintaining open communication with family members.
• Maintains the confidentiality of all student and team member information.
• Provide for safety and security of individuals along with Helping Hand property. 
• Always maintain client confidentiality.
• Other duties as assigned. 

LAND THIS OPPORTUNITY BY HAVING:

Education:

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• ISBE Paraprofessional Certification required.

Experience:

• Experience working with children and adults ages 3-22 years (preferred).
• Two (2) years of experience in Special Education (preferred).

Skill Sets:

• Excellent organizational skills, ability to multitask, adapt while working with multiple students.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and flexibility to changes throughout the shift.
• Flexibility to work in any classroom or area as assigned by supervisors.
• Ability to promote and adhere to company values.
• A commitment to a diverse, inclusive, and equitable work environment.
• Ability to fulfill all necessary training requirements of the agency, including but not limited to crisis management (crisis management training includes de-escalation strategies and physical management techniques).
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with the entire team to ensure safe and efficient delivery of services while utilizing strong conflict management and team building skills.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• The person in this position needs to occasionally move about to assist clients/students, access file cabinets, office machinery, etc. 
• This position requires team members to work with individuals exhibiting physical aggression; must be comfortable working in periods of crisis and feel comfortable de-escalating individually or as a team.
• Capability to lift and assist students/clients with physical needs; which may require moderate physical exertion.
• The ability to observe details at a close range (within a few feet of the observer). 
• Consistently position self to maintain files in file cabinets or assist clients/students. 
• The ability to communicate information and ideas so others will understand.  Must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations. 

Helping Hand welcomes diversity and provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and 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.