Substitute Teacher Assistant

Ampersand Therapy; Downers Grove (IL); On-site; USD 28,000 - 34,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid sick leave

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with employer match

Professional development and licensing

Paid volunteer time

Mileage reimbursement

W-2 employment

Referral bonuses

No non-compete clauses

Job summary

Ampersand Therapy is seeking a Substitute Paraprofessional/Teacher Assistant in the Downers Grove, IL area for the 2026–2027 school year. You will provide 1:1 and small group support to students with autism and other disabilities, collaborating with teachers and related service providers to maintain a safe, inclusive classroom.

Illinois Paraprofessional Educator License is required; prior school experience is preferred, with emphasis on behavioral or social-communication needs.

Qualifications

• It states license requirement for paraprofessional educators.
• School experience is preferred for candidates.
• Experience supporting students with behavioral or social-communication needs is required.

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.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation.
• Communicate professionally with teachers, school teams, and families.

Skills

Behavioral support

Small group support

Documentation

Communication with teachers

Education

Illinois Paraprofessional Educator License

Job description

Job Title:Substitute Teacher AssistantPay Range:$20-25/hourJob Description:Up to $25/hour | Substitute Teacher Assistant/Paraprofessional for 2026-2027 School Year | Downers Grove, ILAmpersand 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 DetailsSchedule: Per Diem, Monday - FridayLocation: Downs Grove, IL AreaStart Date: August 2026Assignment 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 ResponsibilitiesProvide 1:1 and small group behavioral support to students with autism and/or other behavioral challengesImplement behavior strategies and accommodations designed by educators and behavior specialistsFoster an inclusive, positive classroom environmentSupport students' social-emotional and academic developmentCommunicate professionally with teachers, school teams, and familiesMaintain accurate and timely documentationQualificationsIllinois Paraprofessional Educator License requiredPrevious school experience strongly preferredExperience supporting students with behavioral or social-communication disabilities requiredMust pass a criminal background checkPhysical RequirementsOccasionally: Sit/stand, reach above shoulder level, stoop/bend, climb stairs, repetitive arm/hand motionsOccasionally/Frequently: Lift and/or carry up to 50 lbs., push/pull, twist, squat/crouchFrequently/Continuously: Lift and/or carry up to 10 lbs.Continuously: Handle/graspWhy 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 leaveMedical, dental, and vision insurance401(k) with employer matchProfessional development and licensing reimbursementsPaid volunteer timeMileage reimbursementW-2 employmentReferral bonusesNo non-compete clausesAn Inclusive WorkplaceAmpersand Therapy is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We welcome candidates of every race, gender identity, sexual orientation, background, and ability status.