Personal Care Assistant (Emotional Support)

Personal Care Assistant (PCA)

Organization: Delaware County Intermediate Unit (DCIU)

Location: Media, Aston, and Glen Mills (Aston Region)

Job Type: Full-Time, Contract

About the Opportunity:

DCIU is seeking dedicated and experienced Personal Care Assistants (PCAs) to join our Emotional Support Program at the Aston Education Center. This role is a vital part of a supportive team that serves students in grades K-12 with emotional and behavioral needs across three distinct schools. The ideal candidates will have a strong background in special education and a passion for helping students succeed in a structured, supportive environment.

Core Responsibilities:

• Instructional & Behavioral Support: Provide one-on-one and small group academic, behavioral, and personal care support to assigned students, as outlined in their Individualized Education Program (IEP).
• Intervention & De-escalation: Assist with the implementation of behavior intervention plans and follow crisis de-escalation protocols.
• Data Collection: Collect and accurately report data related to student behavior and academic progress.
• Collaboration: Work closely with teachers, therapists, and counselors to support student needs and attend IEP meetings to provide insights.
• Daily Living Assistance: Support students with activities of daily living, including meals, hygiene, and mobility.
• Environment Management: Help maintain a clean, organized, and conducive learning environment.
• Professional Conduct: Adhere to all DCIU policies, including dress code, cell phone use, and professional conduct standards.

Qualifications:

Required:

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Highly Qualified Paraprofessional status (or ability to obtain).
• Previous experience as a PCA, Paraprofessional, or Paraeducator in a public or private educational setting.
• Proven ability to work with children and students who have behavioral needs.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Flexibility and reliability.
• Comfortable with technology.
• Valid Driver's License and reliable transportation (Must have a car).

Clearances & Medical Requirements:

All clearances and medical documents must be submitted with the application to be considered.

• Required Prior to Start:
  
  • PA Child Abuse Clearance (within 2 years)
  • FBI Criminal Fingerprint Clearance (within 2 years)
  • PA State Police Clearance (within 2 years)
  • Mandated Reporter Training Certification (within 5 years)
  • CPR & First Aid Certification
  • Act 82 Arrest/Conviction Report & Certification Form
  • Completed Act 168 Forms
• May be completed within 30 days of starting:
  
  • TB Test (within 3 months)
  • Physical or Authorized Medical Documentation (within 1 year)