Substitute Teacher Assistant

Ampersand Therapy is a therapist-founded staffing and placement agency specializing in school-based special education and therapeutic services. The enterprise connects licensed clinicians - including speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, school psychologists, and special education teachers - with public, private, and charter school districts. Headquartered in Bellevue, Washington, it provides district contract management, clinician onboarding, mentorship, and workforce solutions designed by experienced therapists to support K-12 educational environments.

ampersandtherapy.com · HQ: Bellevue, United States · Recruiting & Staffing · Healthcare Staffing · 1001-5000 employees · Est. 2016

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.

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