Office of Juvenile Justice
Columbia Center for Youth
132 LA-850, Columbia, LA 71418
https://ojj.la.gov/location/swanson-center-for-youth-columbia
The Office of Juvenile Justice is seeking a compassionate, energetic Paraeducator who is excited about making a real difference in the lives of young people. This role is perfect for someone who believes in second chances, thrives in a supportive team environment, and wants to help students stay engaged, confident, and successful in the classroom.
As a Paraeducator, you’ll play a meaningful part in creating a positive learning atmosphere where every student feels seen, supported, and capable. You’ll work closely with instructors, encourage students through daily challenges, and help maintain a structured, uplifting environment that promotes growth and learning. If you’re patient, dependable, and passionate about helping youth reach their potential, this is a powerful opportunity to be part of something bigger.
High school diploma or GED
The Paraeducator supports classroom instruction by assisting teachers, supervising students, and helping maintain a positive, structured learning environment for youth. The incumbent contributes to daily instructional activities, reinforces classroom expectations, and provides support that promotes student engagement, safety, and academic success. This position requires professionalism, reliability, strong communication skills, and the ability to work effectively with students and staff in a secure-care educational setting.
Job Duties:
Support daily classroom instruction and assist with lesson implementation, preparation of materials, and supervision of students.
Maintain confidentiality, follow communication protocols, and uphold all school, facility, and agency policies.
Help create a clean, organized, and positive learning environment; treat all students with respect and professionalism.
Assist with clerical tasks such as grading and filing, operating classroom equipment, and completing required paperwork accurately and on time.
Serve as a positive role model in conduct, appearance, and communication; demonstrate reliability, punctuality, and professionalism.
Participate in training and professional development to strengthen skills and support instructional needs.
Perform additional duties as assigned by the principal or instructional staff.
Position-Specific Details:
Work Location: This vacancy is located at Columbia Center for Youth in Columbia, Louisiana.
Appointment Type: Full time
Work Schedule: The incumbent will work 7.5 hours per workday.
The incumbent of this position must not have been convicted or pled nolo contendere to a crime listed in R.S. 15:587.1 (c)
How To Apply:
To apply for this vacancy, click on the "Apply" link above and complete an electronic application, which can be used for this vacancy as well as future job opportunities.
Applicants are responsible for checking the status of their application to determine where they are in the recruitment process. Further status message information is located under the Information section of the Current Job Opportunities page.
For further information about this vacancy contact:
Garilyn London
OJJ/Human Resources
[email protected]
If you are contacted for an interview, please let us know at that time if you will need special accommodations.
NOTE: Prior to an appointment, the selected applicant must take and pass a drug screening test, possess a valid Louisiana Driver's License and clear a background check.
This agency participates in the E-Verify system for verification of citizenship and employment authorization.
The Office of Juvenile Justice is a State as a Model Employer (SAME) agency that supports improved employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. For more information on employment-related resources available for those with disabilities, refer to the Louisiana Employment Resource Guide .
In the supplemental questions section, applicants must authorize the HR Office of Juvenile Justice to contact prior employers to check references under the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA)to be considered for employment.