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Let’s be honest…
If you’ve searched “Teaching Assistant job description,” you’ve probably seen dozens of generic posts online—bullet points, buzzwords, and boilerplate text that could apply to any school or role.
But here’s the thing: those posts don’t actually help you attract great teaching assistants. They just fill space.
They don’t speak to the values of your school.
They don’t show what kind of classroom culture you’re building.
And they definitely don’t inspire the right candidates to apply.
The truth is, top teaching assistants aren’t just looking for any job—they want to support meaningful learning, be part of a team that cares, and work in an environment where they’re trusted to make a difference.
So if your job post reads like a formality, it’s probably not doing its job.
This guide will show you how to fix that—and give you everything you need to write a teaching assistant job description that actually connects.
✅ We’ll also link to our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ if you want a deeper dive into the strategy behind it.
Let’s get started.
Smart Hiring Starts Here
WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results
What Does a Teaching Assistant Actually Do?
A teaching assistant (TA) supports classroom learning by working closely with the lead teacher and students. Depending on the school, they might help with lesson prep, provide one-on-one support, manage classroom activities, or supervise students during breaks.
But great teaching assistants do more than check tasks off a list.
They build trust with students.
They spot when someone’s falling behind.
They help create a classroom where every learner feels seen, supported, and safe.
Whether it’s reinforcing a tricky math concept, calming an anxious student, or organizing materials for an upcoming lesson—a teaching assistant keeps the classroom running smoothly and emotionally grounded.
That’s why reliability, emotional intelligence, and strong communication matter just as much as subject knowledge or experience.
Two Great Teaching Assistant Job Descriptions
We’ll provide two tailored job description options:
1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.
2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.
✅ Option 1: Experienced Teaching Assistant Job Description (Culture-First Style)
📌 Job Title: Teaching Assistant (Grades 3–5) – Supportive, Student-Centered Environment
📍 Location: Willow Grove Elementary School, Austin, Texas
💼 Schedule: Full-Time | Monday–Friday, 8AM–4PM
💰 Salary: $20–$24/hour (based on experience)
Smart Hiring Starts Here
Get a feel for what it’s like to work with us—Watch this quick video from our team
🌱 About the Role
We’re looking for an experienced, compassionate Teaching Assistant to join our upper elementary team at Willow Grove. You’ll work closely with our lead teachers to support students academically, emotionally, and socially in the classroom.
This is a great fit if you’re someone who loves creating structured yet warm learning environments, enjoys being part of a team, and believes that education should meet every child where they are.
🏫 What You’ll Do
- Support small group instruction and one-on-one learning
- Assist with lesson prep, grading, and classroom organization
- Provide classroom supervision during breaks, transitions, and field trips
- Help manage classroom behavior in line with school policies
- Offer extra support to students who need academic or emotional assistance
- Collaborate with teachers and staff to create an inclusive, nurturing environment
🧠 What We’re Looking For
- 2+ years of experience in a classroom or school-based setting
- Confidence working with children ages 8–11
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills
- A calm, proactive approach to supporting student needs
- Associate degree or higher in education or child development preferred
🎉 Why Join Us?
At Willow Grove, we don’t just hire staff—we build a team that lifts each other up. You’ll work with passionate educators who care deeply about student growth, and you’ll get ongoing support from school leadership.
We offer:
- Paid holidays and sick leave
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Daily team lunches
- Ongoing professional development
- A collaborative, inclusive team culture
📥 How to Apply
We believe every applicant deserves a great experience. That’s why we use WorkScreen, a hiring platform that fairly evaluates applicants through a short skills-based assessment.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Application Link]
You’ll hear back from us within 10 business days.
✅ Option 2: Entry-Level / Willing-to-Train Teaching Assistant Job Description
📌 Job Title: Entry-Level Teaching Assistant – No Experience Needed, Just Heart
📍 Location: Lakeside Learning Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota
💼 Schedule: Full-Time | Monday–Friday, 7:30AM–3:30PM
💰 Salary: $17–$19/hour
🎥 Watch Our Team in Action
See what it’s like to work here—Meet us in this short video
💬 A Note from the Principal
“If you’re patient, eager to learn, and genuinely love working with children—don’t count yourself out just because you don’t have formal classroom experience. We’ll train you. What we care about is your heart, energy, and potential.”
—Principal, Lakeside Learning Center
🧩 About the Role
We’re hiring a Teaching Assistant who’s excited to learn, grow, and make a difference. Whether you’ve volunteered at a local daycare or simply have a gift for connecting with kids, this role is your gateway into education.
👩🏫 What You’ll Learn to Do
- Assist lead teachers with classroom activities and daily routines
- Supervise students during playtime, transitions, and mealtimes
- Help prepare learning materials and tidy classroom spaces
- Build positive relationships with students and staff
- Support students with social-emotional learning
🌟 What We’re Looking For
- No formal classroom experience required—we’ll train you
- Must be reliable, kind, and open to feedback
- Strong communication and listening skills
- High school diploma or GED required; coursework in child development a plus
🌈 What We Offer
- Paid school breaks and holidays
- Health and dental insurance
- Mentorship from experienced educators
- Monthly professional development workshops
- A welcoming, growth-minded work environment
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to ensure our process is fair, fast, and focused on your potential—not just your past.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Application Link]
No résumé required—just complete the quick skills assessment and we’ll be in touch.
Hiring doesn’t have to be hard.
If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
Why These Teaching Assistant Job Posts Work
Let’s break down the specific choices that make these job descriptions clear, compelling, and conversion-worthy:
1. ✅ Clear, Specific Job Titles
Instead of just saying “Teaching Assistant,” both posts go further:
- “Teaching Assistant (Grades 3–5) – Supportive, Student-Centered Environment”
- “Entry-Level Teaching Assistant – No Experience Needed, Just Heart”
These titles do three things at once:
- Tell candidates what the role is
- Signal who it’s for
- Share a glimpse of the culture or values behind it
This kind of title increases relevance and filters for mission-aligned applicants.
2. ✅ Warm, Human Introductions
The posts open with approachable, conversational intros—not corporate summaries.
- The experienced TA post speaks directly to someone who values structure, teamwork, and meaningful support.
- The entry-level post leads with encouragement, not exclusion—perfect for drawing in first-time educators with potential.
This sets the tone and builds emotional connection from the start.
3. ✅ Team Video from the Sch4ool
Including 4a Loom or YouTube video from the principal or teaching team gives the job post a human face. It makes the school feel real, approachable, and trustworthy—qualities that matter especially in education roles.
Bonus: It helps candidates assess culture fit before applying.
4. ✅ Transparent Salary 4& Benefits
Each post includes a clear salary range and practical perks:
- Health and dental coverage
- Paid holidays and school breaks
- Daily lunch or team support
- Mentorship and training
This builds trust, sets expectations, and shows respect for the candidate’s time. Great candidates are more likely to apply when there’s clarity upfront.
5. ✅ Humanized Responsibilities
Instead of lifeless checklists, tasks are described in a way that conveys impact. For example:
“Support small group instruction and one-on-one learning”
“Help create a classroom where every learner feels seen, supported, and safe”
These kinds of details help candidates imagine themselves in the role—and remind them why it matters.
6. ✅ Inclusive, Encouraging Language
The entry-level post includes:
“No experience required—we’ll train you.”
“What we care about is your heart, energy, and potential.”
This makes the job feel accessible to people who may not have formal credentials but have the right character and mindset. It broadens your talent pool—without lowering standards.
7. ✅ Respectful, Modern Hiring Process
The call to action:
- Explains how the process works (WorkScreen link + short assessment)
- Removes résumé bias
- Promises a response timeline (e.g. “within 10 business days”)
This stands out in a world where candidates often hear nothing after applying. It shows your school values people—and helps you stand out as an employer.
Example of a Bad Teaching Assistant Job Description (And Why It Fails)
📄 Generic Job Post
Job Title: Teaching Assistant
Location: Springfield Public Schools
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Summary:
Springfield Public Schools is seeking a Teaching Assistant to support classroom activities, manage student behavior, and assist with academic instruction. Candidates should be reliable and able to follow directions.
Responsibilities:
- Assist lead teacher with classroom management
- Prepare instructional materials
- Monitor students in classroom and playground settings
- Perform other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Experience preferred but not required
- Ability to work with children
How to Apply:
Submit your résumé and cover letter to HR@springfieldps.edu. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
🛑 Why This Job Post Fails
Let’s break it down:
1. ❌ The Job Title Is Vague and Uninspiring
“Teaching Assistant” tells you what the role is—but not who it’s for, what age group, or why it matters. There’s no hook, no mission, and no energy.
2. ❌ The Introduction Feels Cold and Empty
There’s no story, no culture, no “why.” It’s just a placeholder summary that could apply to any school or any role. A candidate reading this feels no emotional connection or reason to keep reading.
3. ❌ No Salary Transparency
Not mentioning a salary signals a lack of transparency. It wastes time for both you and the candidate—and may drive away quality applicants who value clarity and fairness.
4. ❌ Zero Personality or Culture
The post doesn’t describe the team, values, or what it’s like to work at the school. It misses the chance to inspire someone who’s aligned with your educational philosophy or classroom environment.
5. ❌ Responsibilities Are Generic and Lifeless
“Assist lead teacher” and “Perform other duties as assigned” don’t tell the candidate what kind of impact they’ll have or what a typical day looks like. It reads like a checkbox list, not a meaningful role.
6. ❌ Hiring Process Feels Dismissive
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” is outdated. It feels cold, impersonal, and leaves candidates in the dark. In today’s market, people expect communication—even if they’re not selected.
7. ❌ No Call to Action
There’s no motivation or warmth in the apply section—just a request for a résumé and cover letter. It treats the post like a formality, not an invitation.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Job Post Stand Out
If you’ve followed the structure so far, your job description is already better than 90% of what’s out there. But if you want to really stand out and attract thoughtful, motivated candidates, here are a few extras that make a big difference:
✅ 1. Add a Privacy & Security Notice
Fraud is a growing concern, especially in online job applications. A short notice helps candidates feel safe and shows that you take their information seriously.
What to include:
“We take the security and privacy of all applicants seriously. We will never ask for payment, financial information, or sensitive personal data during the hiring process.”
✅ 2. Mention Paid Time Off or Flex Days
Time off isn’t a luxury—it’s a signal that you respect work-life balance. Even if you don’t offer unlimited PTO, include something like this:
Example:
“Enjoy up to 10 paid school holidays, plus 5 personal days per school year—so you can rest, recharge, and show up as your best self.”
✅ 3. Highlight Growth Opportunities
Top candidates aren’t just looking for a job—they want to grow. Mention if you offer mentorship, development tracks, or continuing education.
Example:
“We invest in our team. You’ll have access to monthly training workshops, mentorship from experienced educators, and opportunities to grow into lead roles.”
✅ 4. Include a Loom or YouTube Video
We mentioned this earlier, but it’s worth repeating. A short, 1–2 minute video from the hiring manager, principal, or team makes your post 10x more personal and memorable.
What to say in the video:
- What the role is
- Why it matters
- What kind of person thrives at your school
- A warm invitation to apply
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
✅ 5. Tell Applicants What to Expect
Reduce uncertainty by briefly outlining your hiring process and timeline. For example:
“Our process includes a short skills assessment, followed by a 15-minute virtual interview for selected candidates. We aim to respond to all applicants within 7–10 business days.”
This sets clear expectations and builds goodwill from the start.
These small touches signal something big: you care about your people. And that’s what great candidates want to see.
Should You Use AI to Write Your Job Description?
Lately, it seems like every hiring platform and AI tool is offering a one-click job description generator. And on the surface, that sounds great—just plug in a job title, and boom, you’ve got a post.
But here’s the reality:
❌ Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone
Auto-generated job posts are:
- Generic — They sound like every other listing on the internet.
- Disconnected — They don’t reflect your team, your values, or your classroom culture.
- Uninspiring — They don’t speak to the kind of people you actually want to hire.
Think about it—your job description is often the first impression a candidate gets of your school or program. If it sounds robotic, vague, or soulless, that’s the impression they’ll walk away with.
A great teaching assistant doesn’t apply because you said “assist with instruction and supervision.”
They apply because they believe in your mission, trust your team, and feel invited to contribute.
That can’t be captured by AI alone.
✅ The Right Way to Use AI (with Context)
AI isn’t the enemy—it just needs your help. When used thoughtfully, it’s a powerful writing assistant. Here’s how to get better results:
🧠 Step 1: Provide Real Input
Before prompting the AI, gather these key details:
- What your school or program does
- What this role is responsible for
- The tone and values you want reflected
- Who your ideal candidate is
- Perks, benefits, salary info
- Your hiring process
- Any extra context (culture, team vibe, mission, etc.)
✍️ Step 2: Use a Prompt Like This
“Help me write a job description for our school, [Insert School Name]. We’re hiring a [Insert Job Title] to help with [Insert Key Responsibilities]. Our culture is [Describe your company culture], and we want to attract candidates who are [Describe ideal traits]. We offer the following benefits [Insert perks and salary], and our hiring process includes [Briefly describe steps]. Here are some notes I’ve written to get you started: [Paste your rough outline or ideas].”
This approach turns AI into a collaborator—not a crutch.
🔧 Step 3: Use AI to Polish, Not Replace
Once you’ve written your draft (or received an AI draft based on your input), use AI to:
- Improve sentence flow
- Adjust tone for clarity or warmth
- Reorganize structure for readability
- Check for consistency
In other words—use it like a sharp editor, not a ghostwriter.
Final Thought:
Your job post is your pitch. It deserves more than a copy-paste prompt. Let AI amplify your voice—not replace it.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache.
WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Teaching Assistant Job Description?
We get it—sometimes you just need something fast.
Maybe you’ve already read through this guide and understand what a strong job post looks like. But now you need a solid, editable starting point that you can copy, paste, and customize in just a few minutes.
That’s what this is.
✏️ Important Reminder:
Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
This is a foundation, not a final draft.
Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.
In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.
Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.
- Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
- Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.
✅ Option 1: Conversational, Culture-First Style
📌 Job Title: Teaching Assistant – Elementary Classroom (Student-Focused Environment)
📍 Location: [Your City, State]
💼 Schedule: [Enter Location], Full-Time
💰 Salary: $XX–$XX/hour
🎥 Optional: [Insert Loom link from the hiring manager or school principal]
🌱 About the Role
We’re looking for a Teaching Assistant to support students and teachers in our elementary program. You’ll play a hands-on role in creating a classroom where kids feel safe, supported, and ready to learn.
If you’re someone who notices when a child needs help, jumps in to support without being asked, and believes that learning should be joyful—we’d love to meet you.
What You’ll Do
- Support small group instruction and one-on-one learning
- Help prepare classroom materials and keep the space organized
- Supervise students during class transitions, breaks, and lunch
- Assist with classroom behavior and support social-emotional learning
- Be a kind, dependable presence for students and staff alike
What We’re Looking For
- Experience working with children (in schools, tutoring, or similar roles)
- A calm, proactive communicator who works well in a team
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Bonus: background in education, psychology, or child development
Perks & Culture
- Paid holidays + sick time
- Health and dental insurance
- Free staff lunches
- Monthly mentorship + training workshops
- An encouraging, student-first culture
📥 Apply through WorkScreen
We use WorkScreen to fairly evaluate candidates through a quick online assessment—no résumé required.
👉 [Insert Application Link]
✅ Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Format
📌 Job Title: Teaching Assistant
📍 Location: [Insert Location]
💼 Type: Full-Time
💰 Salary Range: $XX–$XX/hour
📝 Job Brief
We are looking for a dedicated Teaching Assistant to support lead teachers and students in a K–5 classroom environment. Your role will involve helping with instruction, classroom organization, and student engagement.
📋 Key Responsibilities
- Assist teachers in preparing materials and activities
- Provide one-on-one support to students
- Supervise students during recess, lunch, and classroom transitions
- Help maintain a clean and safe classroom environment
- Support classroom behavior management
✅ Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Prior experience working with children preferred
- Basic understanding of child development principles
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
🎁 Benefits
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off and holidays
- Ongoing training and support
- Positive, inclusive team environment
📥 How to Apply
Click the WorkScreen link below to complete your application. You’ll take a quick skills-based assessment, and we’ll follow up within 7–10 business days.
👉 [Insert Application Link]
Let WorkScreen Help You Hire Smarter
Now that you’ve written a compelling, human-centered job post, don’t let it go to waste by drowning in unqualified applications or sifting through resumes that all sound the same.
Let WorkScreen take it from here.
Here’s how WorkScreen helps you hire better, faster, and smarter:
✅ Quickly Identify Your Top Candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
✅ Skill Test with a Single Click
WorkScreen helps you easily administer one-click skill tests. This way you can assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
✅ Eliminate Low-Effort Applicants
No more copy-paste cover letters or AI-generated answers.
WorkScreen filters out low-effort candidates who use one-click apply tools or automated shortcuts—leaving you with applicants who are serious, engaged, and genuinely interested in the role.
✅ Save Time Without Sacrificing Quality
Spend less time manually reviewing resumes and more time connecting with the right people.
WorkScreen brings the best candidates to the top—so you can focus your energy where it counts.
🔗 Ready to Hire?
Create your job post, get your unique WorkScreen link, and start receiving pre-qualified applicants today.
Teaching Assistant Job Description - Frequently Asked Questions
The best teaching assistants combine emotional intelligence with strong communication and classroom awareness. Here are the top skills to prioritize:
- Patience and empathy – especially when working with young learners or students who need extra support
- Clear communication – with students, lead teachers, and parents
- Adaptability – able to step into different roles, classrooms, and situations calmly
- Teamwork – supports the teacher’s goals and works collaboratively with school staff
- Basic instructional support – such as reinforcing lessons, preparing materials, or leading small group activities
- Observation skills – able to notice when a student is struggling or needs help
- Reliability – shows up prepared, on time, and ready to contribute
Soft skills are just as critical as technical ones—especially in classroom environments where trust and rapport matter.
In the United States, the average hourly wage for a teaching assistant ranges from $15 to $22 per hour, depending on location, school type, and experience level.
- Entry-level TAs with minimal experience may earn closer to $14–$16/hour
- Experienced TAs or those with certifications (like paraprofessional credentials) may earn $20–$25/hour
- Urban districts or private schools may offer higher pay or stipends
Keep in mind that many teaching assistants also receive benefits, such as paid time off, health insurance, and access to school breaks.
The terms are often used interchangeably, but there’s a key difference:
- A teaching assistant generally supports classroom activities under the supervision of a teacher.
- A paraprofessional (also called a paraeducator) may have specialized training and often works with students who have special needs or require individualized support plans (IEPs).
Some districts require paraprofessionals to complete specific certification programs, while teaching assistants may not need formal credentials beyond a high school diploma.
It depends on the school district and role:
- For general classroom support: a high school diploma or associate degree is often enough
- For roles that support special education or federally funded programs: many schools require a paraprofessional certification or completion of a skills-based assessment (such as the ParaPro Assessment)
- Some schools prefer candidates with backgrounds in early childhood education, psychology, or teaching assistant training programs—but it’s not always mandatory
Yes—absolutely.
Including salary (even as a range) increases trust, filters out mismatched applicants, and leads to more serious, better-aligned candidates. According to research from LinkedIn and Glassdoor, job posts with salary information receive significantly more qualified applications.
If you’re not sure about the exact figure, include a transparent range and clarify whether it’s negotiable.
