Job Title: Substitute Teacher Assistant 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.