Special Education Paraprofessional

Paraprofessional – Special Education (Full-Time)
UCP – Center for Disability Services | Year-Round Therapeutic Day School
Monday–Friday | 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM

Empowering Every Student, Every Day.

At UCP – Center for Disability Services, our mission is to empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to lead fulfilling, independent lives. We serve over 300 individuals annually through innovative, compassionate, and person-centered programs that foster inclusion, independence, and a high quality of life.

We're currently seeking dedicated Paraprofessionals to join our supportive and dynamic school team.

Position Overview:

As a Paraprofessional in our year-round therapeutic day school, you'll play a key role in supporting the individualized academic and social development of students with a range of disabilities. Working alongside educators and therapists, you'll help create a safe, respectful, and inclusive classroom environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Instructional & IEP Support

• Understand and implement Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)
• Assist with instructional activities, prompting strategies, and data collection
• Support students in classroom and community-based learning environments

Student Assistance

• Provide one-on-one and small group support
• Assist with daily living activities including toileting, hygiene, and mobility
• Support behavior intervention plans (BIPs) and promote positive behavior
• Help students with physical transitions (positioning, lifting, transferring) as needed
• Use respectful, trauma-informed approaches in all interactions

Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with teachers, therapists, and behavior specialists
• Understand behavior as communication and respond with appropriate strategies
• Maintain professional and supportive communication with all staff and students

Professional Development

• Participate in ongoing training, team meetings, and development sessions
• Stay up to date on best practices in special education and behavioral support

Ethical & Safety Standards

• Follow mandated reporter and Office of Inspector General (OIG) guidelines
• Maintain student confidentiality and dignity
• Adhere to all UCP/CDS policies and COVID-19 protocols

Other Duties as Assigned

• Support classroom transitions, school events, and other team needs as required

Qualifications:

Education & Certification:

• Illinois State-Approved Paraprofessional License (required).

Don't have one yet? No problem — we can guide you through the process and help you get certified

Skills & Requirements:

• Ability to obtain and maintain CPR and agency-required crisis prevention/intervention certification
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds, bend, floor-sit, and engage in physical support tasks
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
• Commitment to inclusion, respect, and student-centered care

What We Offer:

• Consistent, family-friendly daytime schedule
• Ongoing training and professional development
• Collaborative, mission-driven school culture
• Opportunity to make a meaningful difference every day
• Full benefits eligibility starting the 1st of the month after 30 days of employment

Be a part of something bigger. Support students. Empower growth. Inspire potential.

Apply today and join our caring community at UCP – Center for Disability Services.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $19.70 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 403(b)
• AD&D insurance
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending