Para-Professional

Mary Crane Center • Chicago, IL

2h • Onsite

About The Position

Support Every Child’s Potential, Right From the Start
Are you passionate about helping children with disabilities thrive in inclusive early learning environments? Do you believe every child deserves support, understanding, and opportunities to grow? If so, we invite you to join our team as a Paraprofessional in our Head Start classrooms.

As a Paraprofessional, you’ll work alongside classroom teachers to support preschool children with diagnosed disabilities. You’ll help create a safe, nurturing, and well-organized learning space where all children can access the curriculum, engage in play, and build foundational skills for lifelong success.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED
• Valid Paraprofessional License (required)
• Must be at least 18 years old
• Team-oriented with strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism
• Willingness to engage in ongoing training and professional development
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, child-centered environment
• Basic computer proficiency and strong attention to detail
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds, kneel, bend, sit on the floor, and move with children
• Regularly required to talk, see, hear, and use hands for tasks
• Work takes place in classroom settings with moderate to high noise levels
• May work at multiple agency locations and travel between sites for meetings or trainings

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with children is preferred
• Bilingual (Spanish) preferred

Responsibilities

• Assist teachers in providing instruction and supervision, especially for children with moderate to severe disabilities
• Work one-on-one or in small groups to reinforce learning introduced by the teacher
• Support daily classroom routines including transitions, meals, and toileting
• Use developmentally appropriate language and positive guidance techniques
• Help implement classroom activities that align with Head Start, Creative Curriculum, and NAEYC standards
• Join field trips and neighborhood walks under teacher supervision
• Ensure children’s safety at all times and report any concerns of child abuse or neglect
• Assist with bus loading and unloading as needed
• Collect observation notes, photos, and approved documentation as directed by the Lead Teacher
• Help assess developmental progress and track student milestones
• Support lesson plan development by researching and contributing age-appropriate activities
• Assist in individualizing activities for children with disabilities
• Help prepare classroom materials and support bulletin board displays
• Participate in team meetings, trainings, and classroom planning sessions
• Communicate regularly with the Lead Teacher, Assistant Teacher, and Site Director
• Attend in-services, staff meetings, and professional development sessions
• Support administrative tasks including meal count sheets, attendance, and classroom records
• Maintain respectful and effective relationships with staff, families, and community partners
• Sanitize toys, surfaces, and equipment daily and weekly
• Maintain an organized, inviting learning environment
• Routinely check classroom materials and equipment for safety and repair

Benefits

• Mary Crane Center offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes access to medical, dental, and vision insurance (HMO, PPO, and DPPO options), paid time off, and wellness support programs.
• Eligibility and details will be shared during the hiring process.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED