Special Needs Instructional Aide – CNAs Encouraged to Apply

Pacific Autism; Sunnyvale (CA); On-site; USD 38,000 - 52,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental and vision

Paid sick leave

Retirement with match

Supportive team

CNA certification incentive

Job summary

Pacific Autism in Sunnyvale, CA seeks a Special Needs Instructional Aide to support students with disabilities in the classroom. You’ll work with teachers and therapists to implement IEPs, help with academics, communication, mobility, and daily living skills, and maintain a safe, nurturing classroom environment.

Ideal candidates have a High school diploma or GED, English proficiency, TB screening, and DOJ/FBI clearance. CNA certification or direct care experience is a plus.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• CNA certification or direct care experience is a plus.
• English communication (speaking, reading, writing) required.
• TB screening and Live Scan clearance required.

Responsibilities

• Provide one-on-one and small group support to students with special needs
• Assist with instructional activities under the direction of the classroom teacher
• Support students with academics, communication, mobility and daily living skills
• Assist students with hygiene and toileting, including potty training, as needed
• Maintain a safe, respectful and nurturing environment
• Document student progress and report observations to the teaching team
• Learn and use safe techniques to redirect students during behaviors (training provided)
• Maintain reliable attendance. Students count on consistency.

Skills

Compassionate care

Observation & documentation

One-on-one support

Team collaboration

Education

High school diploma or GED

AA or BA preferred

CNA certification or direct care experience a plus

Job description

Description

Your CNA skills belong in our high school classroom.

As a CNA, you already know how to give compassionate hands‑on care, keep people safe, and treat everyone with dignity. Now you can use those skills to help students with special needs learn, grow and thrive. Join our team as a Special Needs Instructional Aide and build a rewarding career in education.

We’re looking for caring, reliable and patient people to support students with disabilities in the classroom. You’ll work closely with teachers, therapists and other staff to carry out individualized education plans (IEPs), support behavior strategies, and help students reach their academic, social and emotional goals. It’s a lot like following a care plan as part of a care team.

Why CNAs Thrive Here:

• Your experience counts. Personal care, mobility support, careful observation and documentation are a big part of this role.
• Deeper connections. Work one‑on‑one and in small groups, and watch your students make progress over the school year.
• A new career path. Grow within the education field with ongoing training and professional development.
• Hours are Monday - Friday 9am-3:00pm with options for additional hours for excellent staff.

Benefits:

• Medical, dental and vision benefits
• Paid sick and vacation time
• Retirement plan with matching contribution, upon vesting
• A supportive, collaborative work environment
• Additional starting pay for CNA certification

Requirements

Key Responsibilities

• Provide one‑on‑one and small group support to students with special needs
• Assist with instructional activities under the direction of the classroom teacher
• Support students with academics, communication, mobility and daily living skills
• Assist students with hygiene and toileting, including potty training, as needed
• Maintain a safe, respectful and nurturing environment
• Document student progress and report observations to the teaching team
• Learn and use safe techniques to redirect students during behaviors (training provided)
• Maintain reliable attendance. Students count on consistency.

Requirements

• Age: 18 years of age or older
• Education: High school diploma or G.E.D. required. AA or BA preferred. CNA certification or direct care experience is a plus.
• Communication: Competency in English speaking, reading and writing
• Medical: TB screening required before employment and routinely during employment as required
• Live Scan Clearance: Must have and maintain clear DOJ and FBI clearance before and during employment

Physical Requirements

• Lifting/pushing: Able to lift and/or push at least 35 lbs.
• Movement: Able to bend, squat, reach over shoulders, reach overhead, reach outward, kneel, sit, stand, walk and run on normal, slippery or uneven surfaces
• Safety Care: Able to follow all Safety Care procedures when needed (training provided)