Teacher Aides & Educational Assistants
Description OES Code: 53905
Arrange work materials, supervise students at play, and operate audiovisual equipment under guidance of a teacher.

Wages, California
Entry-Level Hourly Wage $6.79
25th Percentile $7.00
50th Percentile $8.96
75th Percentile $10.67

Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey

Hours & Benefits
There are few full-time jobs. Some aides are covered by union contracts and have health benefits, but many part time aides do not receive pensions, health insurance, or other benefits.

Employment Trends, California
Employment 1998 55,300
Projected Employment 2008 79,100
Percent Change 1998-2008 43%
Separations 1998-2008 7,700

Employment Trends, San Joaquin County
Employment 1999 1,240
Projected Employment 2006 1,560
Percent Change 1999-2006 25.8%
Separations 1999-2006 110

Employment Trends by California County

Working Conditions
Teacher Aides spend a lot of their time standing, walking, or kneeling. Aides who work closely with students may find it both physically and emotionally tiring. Most of the work is indoors, except when supervising students on the school yard or on field trips.

Advancement
Teacher Aides may advance promote within their jobs through experience and more education. Some schools and school districts provide ways for aides to work and take college courses.

Getting the Job & Other Information
Applicants for Teacher Aide positions should contact school districts and private schools directly. Most hiring occurs in August.

For a list of current job listings, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank.

Education and Training
The educational Teacher Aides need can be very different. Some schools require a high school diploma, while other schools expect aides to have some college course work, especially if they will work in special education programs. Following state law, all schools require applicants to pass a test in reading, language, and math. Aides must be able to communicate well with both students and teachers, and clerical skills may be needed too.

Teacher Aides generally get their training for classroom work on the job. However, some community colleges offer associate degree programs that prepare graduates to work directly in the classroom as Teacher Aides. Schools prefer job applicants with experience. Other experience caring for and supervising groups of children is also helpful.

Skills & Other Requirements
Character and personality are very important in qualifying for the Teacher Aide's job. Aides should be able to work with students and to handle classroom situations with fairness and patience. Aides also must show initiative and be willing to follow the classroom teacher's directions.

References
California Occupational Guide: #502

Related Occupations: Elementary School Teachers, Library Assistants

Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP)