By D.M. Livingston

Published Nov 19, 2025

WATERBURY, CT — November 19, 2025 — The City of Waterbury is urging residents to apply for open Paraeducator (Paraprofessional) positions before the application window closes tomorrow, November 20, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. The roles support classrooms across Waterbury Public Schools and come with competitive pay, full benefits, and opportunities for professional growth within the district.

The position starts at $19.53 per hour, with a salary range up to $28.77 depending on experience and advancement. These are union-backed roles offering health insurance, dental, prescription coverage, paid holidays, paid vacation, paid sick time, personal days, and a retirement plan — benefits many part-time educational roles do not include.

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What Paraeducators Do in Waterbury Schools

Paraeducators play a vital role in Waterbury Public Schools, providing both instructional and support services to students. Duties include:

• Assisting teachers in delivering academic instruction
• Supporting students with disabilities and implementing service plans
• Helping with cognitive, social, and emotional development
• Using educational technology and adaptive equipment
• Supporting transitional, vocational, or pre-employment training
• Assisting with hygiene, mobility, and feeding needs for students with significant disabilities
• Managing behavioral interventions, including safe physical restraint if required
• Monitoring student performance and documenting progress

These positions place paraeducators on the front lines of student development, making them essential to the district’s inclusive classroom model.

Looking for more job opportunities?

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Required Qualifications

To be considered, applicants must have:

• High school diploma or GED, and
  ONE of the following:

1. 60 college credits, or
2. An Associate’s degree or higher, or
3. A passing score on the Praxis ParaPro Assessment

Additionally, candidates must have:

• One year of experience working with or training to work with children with disabilities
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to follow structured lesson plans and support educators
• Good physical and mental condition

Applicants interested in a bilingual assignment must be proficient in English and Spanish.

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Veterans & Waterbury Residents Get Extra Points

Applicants may receive:

• 5–10 veteran preference points (documentation required)
• 5 Waterbury residency points, if proof is submitted by the application deadline

These additional points can significantly strengthen an applicant’s ranking during the Civil Service process.

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How to Apply Before the Deadline

Applications must be filed no later than 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, November 20, 2025.

Residents can apply:

Online:

Visit the City of Waterbury’s employment page at waterburyct.org

In Person:

Civil Service Office
Chase Municipal Building
236 Grand Street
Waterbury, CT 06702

Paper applications are available at the Civil Service counter.

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Why This Matters

With ongoing staffing challenges across Connecticut’s education system, the City of Waterbury is prioritizing filling these roles to ensure classrooms remain fully supported — especially those serving high-needs learners.

This closing date is firm, and demand for these positions is high. Residents interested in education, human services, youth development, or entering the school system are encouraged to apply immediately.