Substitute Teacher Assistant

Job Title:

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.