Teaching Assistant / Residential Asst.
Perkins helps children with disabilities find their place in the world. An international NGO, we are committed to delivering best-in-class education to children, providing immersive training and support to professionals and families, advocating for inclusion, and accelerating innovation for people with disabilities. At Perkins, we think courageously, act collaboratively, and we own our work. Join a supportive community committed to growth where your work makes a difference.
Are you passionate about education, psychology, human services, or therapy? Are you eager to make a real, measurable difference in the world?
Join us as a Teaching / Residential Assistant across our three school campuses. In this vital role, you’ll work directly with students who have complex disabilities and visual impairments, helping them thrive in both school and residential settings. Whether your ultimate goal is to become a Special Education Teacher, an Occupational/Physical Therapist, a Speech-Language Pathologist, Behavior Analyst, or work in Human Services, this is the perfect launchpad for your career.
The Perks of Joining Us: To support you, we offer a variety of schedules, a highly collaborative team environment, and the potential for free on-campus housing and meals!
How you will make an impact:
As a Teaching Assistant across our classroom or residential settings, you will work alongside experienced educators and specialists to empower students to build independence and confidence.
- Empower Student Success: Teach and guide students through their individualized education goals (IEPs) and the Expanded Core Curriculum.
- Bridge Communication: Model language and help students communicate using Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices or American Sign Language (ASL).
- Provide Compassionate Direct Care: Support daily living activities (hygiene, toileting, showering, feeding, dressing, lifting, mobility) with dignity, respect, and heart.
- Create a Safe & Supportive Environment: Utilize de-escalation strategies and Safety Care techniques to help students navigate challenges safely.
- Engage Beyond the Classroom: Assist students during therapeutic pool sessions, gym activities, off-campus field trips, and recreational activities.
Education/Experience:
- Education: High School Diploma or equivalent required (Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree preferred).
- Passion & Experience: Experience working with individuals with special needs—whether through classroom work, professional caregiving, or volunteering—is preferred.
- Growth Mindset: Willingness to train and maintain certifications in First Aid/CPR, AED, Safety Care, and Sign Language (provided by Perkins).
- Physical Requirements: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and assist students with physical transfers/mobility.
- Valid Driver's License: Willingness to train for Perkins Vehicle Driver Clearance is a plus!
The following shared salary range is what Perkins reasonably expects, in good faith, to pay for the position. The applicable range could differ based on experience and qualification.
$17.68-$28.18
Perkins offers a comprehensive benefits package for part time and full time employees, including:
- Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Wellness programs available.
- Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA)
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Employer-Paid Life & Long-Term Disability Insurance
- 401(k) Plan with employer match
- Education Benefits: Tuition reimbursement day one
- Paid Time Off
- Extras: Employee Recognition Programs, EAP, legal services, referral bonuses, credit union access, pre-tax MBTA passes and more!
Perkins is a mission-driven community that supports your well-being at work and beyond. We are located in the heart of Watertown, adjacent to the Charles River and less than 1 mile from food & entertainment at Arsenal Yards.