Special Needs Educational Assistant

Special Needs Educational Assistant

Position Overview

Tamil Canadians with Special Needs (TCSN) is seeking a compassionate, patient, and dedicated Special Needs Educational Assistant to support children, youth, and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities in classroom, recreational, life skills, and community-based programs.

The ideal candidate is caring, dependable, and passionate about helping individuals develop communication, academic, social, self-regulation, and independent living skills. The Educational Assistant will work collaboratively with instructors, therapists, and program supervisors to provide a safe, structured, inclusive, and supportive learning environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Support learners during academic, recreational, life skills, social skills, and classroom activities, including lunch, daily routines, and community-based programs
• Work with learners individually and in small groups to reinforce learning concepts under the direction of the teacher or program supervisor
• Use visual supports, PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System), prompting techniques, structured routines, and basic sign language as appropriate
• Support the development of communication, social skills, self-regulation, independence, and community integration
• Implement behaviour support strategies using positive reinforcement and individualized supports
• Support learners during transitions between activities and help maintain structured daily routines
• Provide supervision and ensure learner safety during classroom activities, outdoor programs, yoga sessions, physical activities, games, and community outings
• Monitor learner participation and progress and complete data collection, session notes, observation reports, and other required documentation
• Assist learners with personal care routines, including toileting, handwashing, meals, and other daily living activities as required
• Prepare classrooms and organize learning materials, visual supports, worksheets, and activity supplies
• Assist with cleaning and organizing classrooms, learning materials, and program areas after activities
• Communicate respectfully and professionally with learners, families, staff, and supervisors
• Work collaboratively with staff and supervisors to provide a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment
• Assist with the setup and use of audio-visual equipment, including projectors, computers, and video tools

Qualifications

• Experience working with children, youth, or adults with special needs; experience supporting individuals with autism is an asset
• Diploma or degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE), Developmental Services Worker (DSW), Child and Youth Care/Worker (CYC/CYW), Behavioural Science, Psychology, Social Service Work, or a related field is preferred
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Patient, compassionate, dependable, and able to work effectively as part of a team
• Understanding of positive behaviour support strategies and inclusive practices
• Ability to follow individualized learning programs, structured routines, and behaviour support plans
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality
• Passion for supporting individuals with special needs and promoting independence, inclusion, and quality of life
• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and TCSN's mission

Technical Competencies

• Basic knowledge of visual supports and communication systems, including PECS and visual schedules
• Ability to collect, record, and maintain learner data accurately
• Familiarity with classroom, educational, and program support materials
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office and electronic documentation
• Ability to learn and use TCSN's documentation and program tracking systems

Additional Requirements

• Current or willingness to obtain a Vulnerable Sector Check
• First Aid and CPR certification is an asset
• CPI, Safe Management, or other behaviour management training is an asset
• Ability to participate in recreational, physical, and community-based activities with learners
• Reliable attendance and punctuality

Education

College Diploma or Bachelor's Degree in a related field must

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $17.60 per hour

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree (preferred)

Work Location: In person