Therapeutic Special Ed Aide — Play-Based Learning (Mon–Fri)

Merlin Day Academy; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 28,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

Disability insurance

FSA

Employee assistance

401(k) match

PTO & holidays

Job summary

Merlin Day Academy is an intensive therapeutic day program in Chicago serving children ages 6-14 with autism and related needs. As a Special Education Classroom Aide, you will support ASD/ADHD students with therapy-inspired activities in a play-based, classroom setting.

The role runs Monday–Friday, 7:45am–3:15pm, with no evenings or weekends, and offers comprehensive benefits, merit-based increases, and growth opportunities within a multidisciplinary team of therapists and educators.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Associate's degree OR completion of at least 60 semester hours.
• Experience working with children or clients with special needs is a plus.
• Ability to lift up to 25lbs.

Responsibilities

• Assist with individualized therapy activities and classroom/lesson preparation.
• Support clients during group therapy rotations.
• Collaborate daily with occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, and social workers.
• Help maintain a positive, engaging, play-based learning environment.

Skills

Experience with special needs

Lift up to 25lbs

Education

Bachelor's or Associate's degree or 60 college hours

Job description

Merlin Day Academy is an intensive therapeutic day program in Chicago serving children ages 6-14 with autism and related needs. As a Special Education Classroom Aide, you will support ASD/ADHD students with therapy-inspired activities in a play-based, classroom setting.

The role runs Monday–Friday, 7:45am–3:15pm, with no evenings or weekends, and offers comprehensive benefits, merit-based increases, and growth opportunities within a multidisciplinary team of therapists and educators.