Substitute Special Education Aide, Putnam County ESC

Job Overview

Job Description

Position Title: Substitute Special Education Aide

Location: Putnam County Educational Service Center / Ottawa, OH

Employment Type: As Needed / Part-Time / On-Call

Pay Rate: $17.09/Hour

About the Role

Dedicated School Staffing is seeking compassionate, reliable, and patient Substitute Special Education Aides to support students with disabilities when regular staff members are unavailable. This role is key in ensuring students receive consistent support, can access their learning environment, and are able to participate fully in daily school activities. Aides work closely with special education staff and school teams to help maintain structure, continuity, and individualized support services.

Key Responsibilities

Work directly with students with a variety of needs, including academic, behavioral, physical, and developmental challenges
Support implementation of Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals, accommodations, and modifications as directed by certified staff
Assist students in developing communication, social, and classroom participation skills
Provide personal care assistance when required, such as mobility support, feeding, or toileting, following proper training and procedures
Implement behavior support plans and use approved de-escalation strategies when needed
Supervise students across school settings including classrooms, hallways, cafeterias, playgrounds, and arrival/dismissal periods
Assist with the use of adaptive equipment, assistive technology, or sensory supports as directed
Maintain a calm, steady, and supportive presence during transitions or behavioral challenges
Record observations and report incidents according to school guidelines
Collaborate with teachers, intervention specialists, and support staff to ensure consistent student support

Required Qualifications

Must be at least 18 years of age
High school diploma or equivalent required
Valid Ohio educational aide permit or higher teaching license (as required by state regulations)
Clean criminal background check required
Ability to work with students with diverse and complex needs in a respectful, patient, and professional manner
Strong communication and teamwork abilities
Ability to follow structured routines, instructions, and individualized plans
Physical ability to assist with lifting, positioning, or mobility-related support when needed
Compliance with the Licensure Code of Professional Conduct for Ohio Educators

Preferred Qualifications

Prior experience in special education or working with individuals with disabilities
Training in behavior intervention, crisis response, or de-escalation techniques
Familiarity with IEPs, adaptive tools, or assistive technology systems

What We Offer

Flexible, as-needed scheduling
Hands-on experience in special education environments
Opportunities for long-term substitute assignments
Potential pathways to additional school-based roles
Access to optional medical benefit programs
Enrollment in the School Employees Retirement System (SERS)