What are the responsibilities and job description for the Paraprofessional Instructional Assistant position at Opportunity Acres?
Paraprofessional / Behavioral Instructional Assistant (ABA Classroom Support)
Education & Behavioral Services | Shingle Springs, CA
Pay Info: From $19.00/hour (part-time, full-time)
Join a team that changes lives every day.
At Opportunity Acres and its non-public school program Independent Trails School, we believe every student deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and build independence in a supportive, structured environment. Our unique 56-acre ranch setting integrates academic instruction, behavioral support, and real-world learning experiences for students diagnosed with autism and developmental disabilities.
We are seeking dedicated Paraprofessionals to provide one-on-one Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)-based instruction and behavioral support to high school students. This role combines classroom learning with hands-on skill development in a small class, high-support environment where every interaction matters.
Position Summary
The Paraprofessional provides individualized academic instruction and behavior support under the supervision of a classroom teacher and behavior consultant. Staff work closely with students in a 1:1 to 1:3 ratio, implementing lesson plans, behavior intervention strategies, and communication supports while promoting student progress toward individualized goals.
QualificationsRequired
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Ability to pass criminal background check and reference checks
- Negative TB test and immunization records
- Reliable transportation to and from work
- Basic computer skills (email, internet, Microsoft Office)
Preferred
- Experience or coursework in education, psychology, behavior analysis, or related field
- Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities (not required—training provided)
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand, sit, stoop, kneel, crawl, and reach throughout the workday
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds
- Ability to work in an active, fast-paced classroom and outdoor ranch environment
- Ability to travel locally via automobile for community outings and transportation routes
Pre-Employment Requirements
- Criminal background clearance
- Reference and education verification
- TB test and immunization records
- Completion of onboarding training and ongoing mentorship
- Availability for weekday schedule (Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–2:30 PM)
What You’ll Do
- Provide 1:1 and small-group ABA-based academic instruction
- Implement individualized lesson plans and behavior intervention plans as directed by the teacher and behavior consultant
- Work in collaboration with classroom staff to develop goal-oriented activities
- Deliver instruction using defined SDs (discriminative stimuli), prompts, and reinforcement procedures
- Collect accurate data and complete session notes for each student
- Monitor and record student progress using designated data systems
- Support communication using adaptive communication methods
- Participate in classroom routines, school activities, and community outings
- Communicate regularly with teachers and directors regarding student progress, challenges, and training needs
- Support direct care needs of students as required
Compensation
- $19.00/hour starting pay
- Benefits include:
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Paid Sick Leave (PSL)
- Paid Holidays
- Health, dental, and vision insurance (eligibility after 6 months, 30 hours/week)
- 401(k) retirement plan
- Flexible Spending Account (FSA) & Health Savings Account (HSA) options
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Paid training, mentoring, and ongoing professional development
Why Opportunity Acres & Independent Trails School?
At Opportunity Acres and Independent Trails School, you’ll join a mission-driven team committed to helping students with autism build academic, behavioral, and life skills in a supportive ranch-school environment. Every day is an opportunity to contribute to meaningful growth, independence, and long-term success for students.
Apply Today and Help Us Build Brighter Futures.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Pay: From $19.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Education:
- High school or equivalent (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $19