Educational Program Assistant
Become an Educational Program Assistant and support students daily. Enjoy defined benefit pension, health plan, competitive salary, and supportive work culture.
The Educational Program Assistant position offers an attractive annual salary starting at $37,811.64 (100%) with incremental increases, comprehensive health and dental benefits, and a defined benefit pension plan. This contract role includes a school-year schedule with plenty of work/life balance built in, making it an appealing opportunity for those seeking longevity and structure in their career.
This role typically requires First Aid/CPR certification and the willingness to undergo training for personal care, assistive technology, and crisis intervention. Daily responsibilities may include classroom assistance, implementing behavioural strategies, and supporting individual student needs, both with academics and personal care tasks.
Day-to-Day Responsibilities
As an Educational Program Assistant, you’ll start your day supporting students with differing needs, sometimes including light or medium lifting or assisting with toileting and other personal care tasks.
Your day may involve using assistive technologies to help pupils participate and tracking behavioural targets to monitor student progress. Supporting teachers in classroom management and fostering positive behaviour is also a key part of the job.
Task variety is built in, from delivering calming supports and managing routines to recording key information for ongoing student development. Training for specific health-related protocols, such as seizure management or tube feeding, is part of the onboarding process.
You’ll work collaboratively, communicating with teachers, other staff, and families to ensure that every child’s needs are met and supported every step of the way.
Key Advantages
The defined benefit pension plan and employer-shared health and dental coverage put long-term security within reach. These benefits are especially attractive in a contract support role.
Another highlight is the inclusive hiring policy, offering opportunities for candidates from diverse backgrounds and supporting equitable representation in education roles.
Challenges to Consider
The emotional and physical demands can be high, especially with responsibilities like lifting or assisting with personal care and behaviour management.
Additionally, the contract nature means pay and benefits may be pro-rated for part-time roles, and securing long-term placement could depend on ongoing funding or school needs.
Our Verdict
For applicants passionate about education and supporting youth, the Educational Program Assistant role offers valuable work, growth potential, and stability through benefits and balanced schedules. While there are significant demands, the rewards and team environment make it an appealing option for those with the right skills and commitment to student success.