Special Education Assistants - Franklin Learning Center at Lincoln Intermediate Unit 12

University of Delaware; Franklin (Venango County); On-site; USD 24,000 - 27,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage

Life insurance

EAP

Paid time off

Disability coverage

PSERS retirement

Wellness center access

Job summary

Long Island University – Franklin Learning Center is hiring Special Education Assistants (PCA or TA) to support students across Autistic, Emotional, Behavioral, Life Skills, and other programs. Positions are full-time, 7 hours per day, 188 days per year, with a starting wage of $18.91 per hour, plus an additional $0.25 per hour for specific centers.

The roles emphasize compassionate student support, collaboration with teaching teams, and ongoing professional development to meet PA education

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• Must have or obtain and maintain a current certificate in first aid.

Responsibilities

• Assist a teacher in maintaining a positive learning environment in the classroom.

Skills

Patience & empathy

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Flexibility

Follow instructions

Willingness to learn

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

First aid certificate

CPR certificate

LIU-approved crisis management certification (preferred)

PA Dept. of Education certification within 1 year

20 hours annual professional development

Job description

Special Education Assistants - Franklin Learning Center

This position is for an assistant role (PCA or TA) in a special education classroom at the Franklin Learning Center. Multiple openings are available across various programs. While prior experience is not required, candidates should be eager to learn and demonstrate compassion and dedication toward supporting children with special needs.

A Teacher Assistant (TA) assists a teacher in maintaining a positive learning environment in the classroom, ensuring the continuance of the education program developed by the teacher.

The Personal Care Assistant (PCA) assists with supporting a student's overall development by promoting self‑sufficiency, communication, interpersonal skills, social engagement, academic progress, and mobility. This role involves assisting the student in accessing their educational program through a variety of supports, including help with balance, visual‑perceptual activities, fine and gross motor skill development, boarding and exiting the school van, and maintaining focus through appropriate prompts. The position requires a strong commitment to student success and collaboration with the teaching team to foster an enriching educational environment for the entire classroom.

The Franklin Learning Center provides support for students ages 3-21 in the following programs:

• Autistic Support
• Emotional Support
• Behavioral Intervention
• Life Skills Support
• Dual Diagnosis Support
• Multi‑disabilities Support
• Therapeutic Emotional Support

Qualifications:

• High School diploma or equivalent
• Must have or obtain and maintain a current certificate in first aid
• Must have or obtain and maintain a current certificate in CPR
• Must have or obtain and maintain current certificate in LIU‑approved crisis management and intervention program, preferred
• Must obtain additional competency as mandated by PA Dept. of Education (within one year from date of hire)
• Must complete twenty (20) hours of professional development related to assignment each year
• Relevant experience working with students in an educational setting (preferred)
• Patience, flexibility, and positive attitude
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to follow instructions and work collaboratively with teachers and staff

Terms of Employment: Full‑time, 7 hours/day, 188 days/year (follows traditional school year schedule)

Salary: As of 7/1/2026 - $18.91 per hour (those assigned to the Franklin Learning Center, Paradise, or the York Learning Center will earn an additional $0.25/hr.)

The LIU offers an exceptional benefits package for eligible employees, designed to support your health, financial security, and overall well‑being:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical insurance available for a nominal premium, plus free dental, and vision coverage for employees and eligible dependents.
• Life Insurance at No Cost: All full‑time support staff receive a $30,000 life insurance policy at no cost.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Free, confidential support for employees and dependents, including three counseling sessions per person, per year.
• Paid Time Off: Sick days and Personal days each year.
• Income Protection: Short‑term and long‑term disability coverage available.
• Retirement Benefits: Participation in the Public School Employees' Retirement System (PSERS).
• Exclusive Access to the Lincoln Health and Wellness Center: Available to employees and covered family members (age 2+). No copays or deductibles for services provided at the center for those enrolled in the LIU medical plan. Learn more: https://www.lincolnhwc.com/