Special Education Instructor Assistant

Hamilton County, Ohio • Cincinnati, OH

5d • Onsite

About The Position

At Hamilton County Developmental Disabilities Services, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to live a full and meaningful life. Our team makes that possible every day — and we're looking for people who want their work to matter. We are committed to building a team as diverse as the people we serve, where every member feels valued, supported, and set up to succeed. You'll thrive here if you: Are driven by purpose and find fulfillment in improving the lives of others Communicate clearly and compassionately — in writing and in person Want to grow within an organization that invests in its people and its community.

A typical day as an Instructor Assistant begins at 8:30 a.m., with time spent preparing the classroom or participating in staff meetings before students arrive at 9:00 a.m. You will work closely with teachers and support staff to help students ages 5-21 engage in individualized learning, communication, daily living activities, and skill development. This role supports students with moderate to intensive disabilities, medical fragility, and behavioral needs. Candidates should demonstrate compassion, adaptability, patience, and a collaborative approach to working with students and colleagues. Classrooms are intentionally small, typically serving 5-6 students with 3-4 staff members, allowing for individualized attention, hands-on support, and meaningful relationship-building. Throughout the day, you will celebrate milestones both big and small, from breakthroughs in communication to increased independence in daily tasks. Your support plays a critical role in helping each student feel safe, valued, empowered, and successful in their educational journey.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Some related experience preferred
• Must be able to pass criminal background checks and various abuser registry checks
• Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship now or in the future.

Responsibilities

• Support students in classroom activities, including instruction, behavior support, communication, social interaction, and daily living skills.
• Assist with preparing classroom materials, visual supports, and maintaining a safe, organized learning environment.
• Collaborate with teachers, staff, parents, and specialists to support student goals and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
• Provide personal care assistance as needed, including feeding, toileting, mobility support, and changing clothing.
• Supervise students during lunch, breaks, and transportation loading/unloading.
• Support students using communication tools such as visuals and assistive devices.
• Respond appropriately to behavioral or crisis situations, including physical intervention when necessary.
• Safely assist with lifting, positioning, and transporting students using adaptive equipment and proper techniques.
• Maintain accurate student data and documentation related to IEPs and vocational progress.
• Performs additional duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Competitive Pay
• 35-hour full-time work week
• School schedule includes winter, spring, and summer break
• 5 personal days per year
• 12 sick days allocated upon hire; accrues at 12 days per year after year one with unlimited accrual
• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
• HRA available for those who opt out of medical coverage
• FREE medical care and prescriptions through Marathon Health
• Employer-paid life insurance
• Tuition reimbursement
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligibility
• Wellness incentives
• Robust Employee Assistance Program
• Ohio Public Employees' Retirement System (OPERS): 10% employee / 14% employer contribution

What This Job Offers

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