Paraprofessional
Job description, Salary, Resume, and Interview Questions
TABLE OF CONTENTS
WHAT DOES A PARAPROFESSIONAL DO?
A Paraprofessional is crucial in supporting the educational and healthcare operations within various settings. This role includes tasks such as assisting teachers in the classroom, working with special education students, providing basic care in healthcare settings, and assisting with daily educational or patient care activities. They are responsible for maintaining effective communication with professionals, managing documentation, and assisting in the overall management of educational or healthcare needs. Skills in patient or student care, documentation management, and teamwork are crucial.
To succeed as a Paraprofessional, one should possess strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in relevant software and Microsoft Office. They are expected to collaborate with professional teams, contribute to care or educational plans, and support teachers or healthcare providers in various tasks. Their role is integral in ensuring the smooth operation of educational or healthcare processes and maintaining organized records.
NATIONAL AVERAGE
PARAPROFESSIONAL SALARY
Paraprofessional salaries vary based on factors such as education, experience, field of work, location, and type of institution.
$45,375
PARAPROFESSIONAL JOB DESCRIPTIONS
A clear job description is important when hiring a Paraprofessional. Whether for a school, hospital, or other care settings, these examples can help define the requirements and expectations for your next Paraprofessional.
TemPositions Health Care is seeking a dedicated Medical Paraprofessional to provide support to our healthcare team. The candidate will assist in clinical tasks, patient care, and administrative duties in a healthcare setting.
Responsibilities:
- Assist medical staff with basic patient care, such as taking vitals, preparing patients for exams, and performing EKGs.
- Manage patient records, schedule appointments, and handle front desk duties.
- Provide support in minor medical procedures under the supervision of medical staff.
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of examination rooms and equipment.
- Stock and manage medical supplies.
Qualifications: - High school diploma or equivalent; certification as a medical assistant or relevant training is preferred.
- Previous experience in a healthcare setting.
- Basic understanding of medical terminology and procedures.
- Strong organizational and communication skills.
- Compassionate and patient-focused attitude.
TemPositions Health Care is looking for an Educational Paraprofessional to support our educational initiatives in healthcare settings. The candidate will assist in educational activities, patient education, and administrative tasks.
Responsibilities:
- Assist in the development and delivery of patient education materials and programs.
- Support healthcare professionals in conducting educational workshops and seminars.
- Coordinate and schedule educational events and activities.
- Maintain educational materials and resources.
- Assist in evaluating the effectiveness of educational programs.
Qualifications: - Associate degree in Education, Health Education, or related field.
- Experience in an educational or healthcare setting.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with healthcare professionals and educators.
- Organizational skills and attention to detail.
TemPositions Health Care seeks a Behavioral Health Paraprofessional to join our mental health care team. This role involves supporting mental health professionals and providing care to patients with mental health conditions.
Responsibilities:
- Assist mental health professionals in the treatment and care of patients with behavioral health issues.
- Provide support in therapy sessions and group activities.
- Help in crisis intervention and management under the guidance of mental health staff.
- Document patient behavior and progress.
- Engage with patients and provide support and encouragement.
Qualifications: - High school diploma or equivalent; additional training in behavioral health is a plus.
- Experience working in a mental health setting.
- Understanding of mental health issues and patient care.
- Strong empathy and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work under the supervision of mental health professionals.
TemPositions Health Care is looking for a Rehabilitation Paraprofessional to assist in our rehabilitation and physical therapy departments. The candidate will support therapists in providing care to patients undergoing rehabilitation.
Responsibilities:
- Assist physical therapists with patient exercises and rehabilitation activities.
- Prepare and maintain therapy equipment and treatment areas.
- Help patients with mobility and use of assistive devices.
- Observe and report on patient progress to therapists.
- Provide encouragement and support to patients during rehabilitation.
Qualifications: - High school diploma or equivalent; experience or training in physical therapy or rehabilitation preferred.
- Knowledge of basic rehabilitation and therapy practices.
- Strong communication and motivational skills.
- Ability to assist and handle patients with physical limitations.
- Compassionate and supportive approach to patient care.
Tap into TemPositions
Health Care's network of prescreened and vetted medical professionals.
Candidate Certifications
to Look For
Continual skill and knowledge development is important for Paraprofessionals. While not all roles require certifications, they can be part of professional growth. Valuable certifications for a Paraprofessional include:
Recognizes skills in supporting healthcare professionals and assisting in patient care activities.
Provides foundational skills in patient care, vital for paraprofessionals in health care settings.
Essential for healthcare paraprofessionals, focusing on emergency response skills.
Specializes in assisting with behavioral therapy and support, particularly useful in mental health and pediatric care.
PARALEGAL RESUME EXAMPLES
Download our expertly crafted Paralegal resume examples to showcase your skills and experiences in the legal sector.
HOW TO HIRE A PARAPROFESSIONAL
Hiring a Paraprofessional involves several considerations. Here are tips for employers:
Define the Role Clearly: Detail responsibilities and expectations in the job description, including support tasks in educational or healthcare settings.
Assess Relevant Knowledge: Look for candidates with experience and understanding of the field they will be working in.
Evaluate Interpersonal Skills: Test for strong abilities in communication and teamwork.
Check for Relevant Certifications: Consider certifications as indicators of dedication and expertise.
Assess Organizational Skills: Ensure the candidate can effectively manage documentation and assist in care or educational plans.
Consider Cultural Fit: The candidate should align with your institution’s values and work environment.
Verify Past Performance: Check references for reliability, effectiveness in support roles, and ability to work collaboratively.
SAMPLE INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
- How do you support teachers or healthcare professionals in their daily tasks?
- Can you describe a challenging situation you managed as a paraprofessional?
- How do you manage documentation and records in your role?
- Describe your experience with any specific educational or healthcare software.
- How do you handle confidential information in an educational or healthcare setting?
- Explain how you prioritize tasks in a busy environment.
- Tell us about a time you contributed to a team in an educational or healthcare setting.
- How do you handle multiple responsibilities simultaneously?
- What strategies do you use to communicate effectively with staff and families?
- Can you discuss your experience with any specific area of education or patient care?
THREE EASY WAYS TO COMPLETE YOUR HEALTHCARE TEAM
TemPositions Health Care can assist you in finding the right Paraprofessional for your team. Here are three ways to complete your healthcare team:
- Utilize TemPositions Health Care, a specialized healthcare staffing agency.
- Post your job on leading healthcare job boards.
- Leverage your professional network in the healthcare sector. TemPositions Health Care offers access to a network of pre-screened and qualified healthcare professionals, saving time and ensuring the right fit for your team.
NEED HELP HIRING A PARAPROFESSIONAL?
Discover how TemPositions Health Care can elevate your hiring process with tailored staffing solutions. Contact us today to experience a partnership that transforms your recruitment strategy and connects you with top-tier talent.
