Tier III Autism Classroom - Washington

Kennewick•Kennewick, WA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Para/SS/Tier III Autism Classroom paraeducator supports and supervises autistic students with significant special needs in general and special education settings. Working as part of a team with special education teachers, other paraeducators, and specialists, the paraeducator carries out educational instruction and behavioral supports under teacher direction, collects and documents student data, and helps monitor progress. The role may include assisting with toileting, diapering, feeding, food preparation, and other physical or health needs. Duties must be performed in accordance with Kennewick School District policies and procedures, with other job-related tasks assigned as needed. The position is at Washington Elementary School, is scheduled for 6.5 hours per day for 180 days per year, and is based on student/program need. The location may change and hours may increase or decrease as necessary. The listed salary is $23.15–$26.65 per hour, with the opportunity to earn up to an additional $0.60 per hour based on college-level credits earned. The application opening date is 11/05/2026, and the deadline is 11/12/2026 at 10:00 PM or until filled.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
An associate degree, 72 quarter college credits, 48 semester college credits, or a passing score on an assessment approved by the Professional Educator Standards Board.
Attach an unofficial transcript showing the associate degree or equivalent to the application; provide official transcripts for all education levels, including high school, within 30 days of hire.
Pass a basic skills test.
Complete Safe Schools web-based training within 30 days of hire and annually thereafter.
Pass a background check, including employee-paid fingerprinting.
Obtain CPI training at the next available opportunity.
Be able to perform essential job functions, with or without reasonable accommodation, and meet the position's physical demands.
Uphold board policies, follow administrative procedures, and take necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities.
Demonstrate the ability to assess and address safety issues and maintain effective, tactful, cooperative relationships with students, parents, staff, coworkers, and management.
Work professionally and collaboratively toward teamwork, quality service, and continuous improvement.
Communicate sufficiently in English, verbally and in writing, with students, parents, district staff, and others regarding job-related activities.
Use basic computer programs to maintain records, enter timecard information, and read and respond to email.
Be first-aid certified or willing to obtain first-aid training as soon as possible.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree.
Ability and willingness to safely supervise students during transition periods.
Training and experience working with students on the autism spectrum.
Ability to recognize, manage, and implement behavior intervention strategies when appropriate.
Ability to maintain ongoing student behavioral data and report it to the IEP team.
Ability to run quickly after students with elopement issues and visually track individual student movement.
Willingness and ability to feed and diaper children who require motor assistance in the bathroom setting.
Ability to carry out prescribed instructional and behavioral management programs and consistently model appropriate behavior and intervention procedures.
Physical ability to lift students as needed: 50 pounds independently or up to 100 pounds with assistance.
Skill with Microsoft Office software.
Patience and warmth when working with students and ability to remain calm during crises.
Flexibility, willingness to take direction, and ability to work independently and in a team.
Ability to cope with unpredictability; remain flexible, diplomatic, cooperative, and composed in difficult situations; protect confidential student information; follow proper communication channels; and communicate appropriately with parents and staff.

Responsibilities

Provide direct support to autistic students under the direct supervision of classroom teachers, using prescribed formats.
Follow teacher directions for data collection, classroom rules, classroom setup, and student-specific instructions.
Collect student data on assigned forms and complete required paperwork accurately and efficiently to comply with state and district regulations.
Support students' physical and health needs as required, which may include toileting, diapering, feeding, and food preparation.
Assist teachers with clerical and instructional tasks, such as copying worksheets and flashcards and creating specialized materials.
Supervise students to promote a safe, orderly, and positive learning climate.
Supervise and interact with assigned students during recess, remain in close proximity, and model appropriate behavior.
Assist specialists, including P.E., Music, and Library staff, with supervision of assigned students as required.
Attend required in-service trainings, meetings, and management-directed training.
Maintain regular attendance and punctuality, follow district policies and procedures, and perform other job-related duties as assigned.