Substitute Teacher Assistant
Boost your chances before you apply.
Eleutheria
Downers Grove, IL, US
Summary
Provide 1:1 and small group behavioral support to students with autism and other disabilities within a classroom setting. Collaborate with teachers and service providers to implement behavior strategies and foster an inclusive learning environment.
Job Description
Job Title:
Substitute Teacher Assistant
Pay Range:
$20-25/hour
Job Description:
Up to $25/hour | Substitute Teacher Assistant/Paraprofessional for 2026-2027 School Year | Downers Grove, IL
Ampersand Therapy is hiring substitute paraprofessionals to join our school-based team for the 2026–2027 school year in the Downers Grove, IL area.
As a therapist-founded company, Ampersand Therapy centers the experiences of school-based professionals. We offer strong mentorship, responsive support, and a workplace culture built on care, inclusion, and professional respect.
Position Details
Schedule: Per Diem, Monday - Friday
Location: Downs Grove, IL Area
Start Date: August 2026
Assignment Focus: Support students with autism and/or multiple disabilities in the classroom. Work closely with teachers and related service providers to foster a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment.
Your Key Responsibilities
- Provide 1:1 and small group behavioral support to students with autism and/or other behavioral challenges
- Implement behavior strategies and accommodations designed by educators and behavior specialists
- Foster an inclusive, positive classroom environment
- Support students' social-emotional and academic development
- Communicate professionally with teachers, school teams, and families
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation
Qualifications
- Illinois Paraprofessional Educator License required
- Previous school experience strongly preferred
- Experience supporting students with behavioral or social-communication disabilities required
- Must pass a criminal background check
Physical Requirements
- Occasionally: Sit/stand, reach above shoulder level, stoop/bend, climb stairs, repetitive arm/hand motions
- Occasionally/Frequently: Lift and/or carry up to 50 lbs., push/pull, twist, squat/crouch
- Frequently/Continuously: Lift and/or carry up to 10 lbs.
- Continuously: Handle/grasp
Why Join Ampersand Therapy?
We’re a women and therapist-founded company designed to support school-based professionals. Our team is small, responsive, and deeply committed to your success.
Benefits & Perks (for 0.8 FTE and higher):
- Paid sick leave
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with employer match
- Professional development and licensing reimbursements
- Paid volunteer time
- Mileage reimbursement
- W-2 employment
- Referral bonuses
- No non-compete clauses
An Inclusive Workplace
Ampersand Therapy is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We welcome candidates of every race, gender identity, sexual orientation, background, and ability status.
