Job Description

Teacher’s Assistant / Paraprofessional – Youth Behavioral Health

Location: Memphis, TN (Memphis Youth Academy)

Job Type: Full-Time

Pay: $19.50/hr

About Youth Opportunity & Memphis Youth Academy

Youth Opportunity is a nationally recognized leader in residential and behavioral health treatment for at‑risk youth. Memphis Youth Academy in Memphis, Tennessee is a higher‑capacity Youth Academy (approx. 68 beds) serving boys ages 13 to 18 in a trauma‑informed residential setting. The program integrates clinical mental health and behavioral treatment with daily academic instruction, art, music, recreation, and social skills development.

Youth typically spend 6 to 9 months in the program, participating in individual, family, and group therapy, restorative justice, life skills training, victim‑impact awareness, and pre‑vocational preparation. Small group living units foster stability, engagement, and preparation for reintegration into school and community environments.

Position Summary – Teacher’s Assistant Job in Memphis, TN

We are hiring a Teacher’s Assistant / Paraprofessional to support our education program at Memphis Youth Academy. This role is ideal for individuals passionate about working in education, behavioral health, or residential treatment settings. You will assist Special Education and General Education Teachers in creating positive, engaging classroom environments that meet the unique learning needs of at-risk youth.

Teacher’s Assistant Job Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with up to 4% employer match with Immediate Vesting
• Paid time off (PTO) and holidays – Earn 4 hours of PTO every pay period
• Free RX delivery on most medications
• Tuition reimbursement and professional development
• Robust Employee Assistance Program
• Supportive, mission-driven work environment

Why Join Youth Opportunity?

• Be part of a team making a difference in the lives of vulnerable youth
• Support youth in achieving academic and behavioral success
• Work in a secure, structured, and trauma-informed educational environment
• Develop your skills through training, mentorship, and advancement opportunities

Teacher’s Assistant Responsibilities

• Assist teachers in preparing lesson materials and organizing classroom activities
• Support teachers in maintaining classroom order and monitoring student behavior
• Provide individualized instruction to students requiring extra academic or behavioral support
• Help with administrative tasks such as attendance, grading, and record keeping
• Encourage positive relationships between students, families, and staff
• Foster a safe, respectful, and supportive learning environment for all youth
• Ensure compliance with state education guidelines and facility policies

Other Duties Include

• Maintain a high standard of role model behavior for youth
• Participate in training and development activities as required
• Report any acts, incidents, or conditions reflecting inappropriate behavior
• Report any use of physical force and all unusual incidents per guidelines
• Perform other duties as assigned or needed

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Ability to pass background check and drug screen
• Ability to think and act independently
• Strong communication and organizational skills

Preferred Experience

• 3+ years working as a Teacher’s Assistant or Paraprofessional in special education or behavioral health settings
• Experience supporting children with developmental, intellectual, or behavioral disabilities

Other Requirements

• Physical Demands: Ability to stand, walk, push, pull, and lift up to 50 pounds. Must be free of communicable diseases as defined by the state and to the extent that knowledge is attainable under the law.
• Other: Must maintain an appropriate and valid state driver’s license. Must meet state criminal background check requirements.

How to Apply

Click “Apply Now” through Indeed to submit your application. Or visit http://www.youthopportunity.com/yourfuture to learn more about our mission and career opportunities.

Youth Opportunity is an Equal Opportunity Employer.