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 managem Location Scarborough , ON Work location On site Salary $ 17.60 HOUR hourly Terms of employment Part time Starts as soon as possible vacancies 1 vacancy Source indeed.com #10231587986 Various locations Scarborough, ON