Perkins helps children with disabilities find their place in the world. An international NGO, we are committed to delivering best-in-class education to children, providing immersive training and support to professionals and families, advocating for inclusion, and accelerating innovation for people with disabilities. At Perkins, we think courageously, act collaboratively, and we own our work. Join a supportive community committed to growth where your work makes a difference.

What you can expect as a Teaching Assistant:

When you join Perkins as a Teaching Assistant, you aren't just taking a job, you’re joining a warm, mission-driven community that invests in your professional growth while you empower extraordinary students to thrive. We offer flexible full time schedules to meet your needs, as well as the potential for on campus housing and meals!

How you will make an impact:

As a Teaching Assistant across our classroom or residential settings, you will work alongside experienced educators and specialists to empower students to build independence and confidence.

Empower Student Success: Teach and guide students through their individualized education goals (IEPs) and the Expanded Core Curriculum.
Bridge Communication: Model language and help students communicate using Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices or American Sign Language (ASL).
Provide Compassionate Direct Care: Support daily living activities (hygiene, toileting, showering, feeding, dressing, lifting, mobility) with dignity, respect, and heart.
Create a Safe & Supportive Environment: Utilize de-escalation strategies and Safety Care techniques to help students navigate challenges safely.
Engage Beyond the Classroom: Assist students during therapeutic pool sessions, gym activities, off-campus field trips, and recreational activities.

Education/Experience:

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent required (Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree preferred).
Passion & Experience: Experience working with individuals with special needs—whether through classroom work, professional caregiving, or volunteering—is preferred.
Growth Mindset: Willingness to train and maintain certifications in First Aid/CPR, AED, Safety Care, and Sign Language (provided by Perkins).
Physical Requirements: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and assist students with physical transfers/mobility.
Valid Driver's License: Willingness to train for Perkins Vehicle Driver Clearance is a plus!

The following shared salary range is what Perkins reasonably expects, in good faith, to pay for the position. The applicable range could differ based on experience and qualification.

$17.68-$28.18

Perkins offers a comprehensive benefits package for part time and full time employees, including:

Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Wellness programs available.
Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA)
Flexible Spending Accounts
Employer-Paid Life & Long-Term Disability Insurance
401(k) Plan with employer match
Education Benefits: Tuition reimbursement day one
Paid Time Off
Extras: Employee Recognition Programs, EAP, legal services, referral bonuses, credit union access, pre-tax MBTA passes and more!

Perkins is a mission-driven community that supports your well-being at work and beyond. We are located in the heart of Watertown, adjacent to the Charles River and less than 1 mile from food & entertainment at Arsenal Yards.

Perkins is an equal opportunity employer. View the Perkins Notice of non-discrimination.

About the company

Perkins School for the Blind provides education and services for people who are blind, deafblind, or visually impaired worldwide. It runs five interconnected divisions (campus school and community services, Perkins International, Perkins Solutions, Perkins eLearning, and Perkins Library) that together offer on-site schooling, global capacity-building, assistive technology products and consulting, online educator training, and large collections of braille and audio materials. Its hardware offerings include tools like the Perkins Brailler and the LightAide, paired with online courses, webinars, and professional development to support educators, families, and institutions. The goal is to help children and adults lead productive, meaningful lives by expanding access to education, adaptive technology, and educational resources around the world.

Company Size

501-1,000

Company Stage

N/A

Total Funding

N/A

Headquarters

Watertown, Massachusetts

Founded

1832

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Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

Perkins Braille Bloom launched in April 2026 at $300, creating fresh product revenue.
The 2026 CVI conference reinforces Perkins as a convener on childhood blindness.
MIT and AM Quartex partnerships extend Perkins' brand into accessible technology and archives.

What critics are saying

Perkins depends on legacy brailler demand; Bloom sales must offset hardware stagnation.
Leadership transition in September 2025 risks execution slip before 2029 bicentennial planning.
Philanthropic or government funding cuts would force program contraction across global services.

What makes Perkins School for the Blind unique

Perkins Braille Bloom bridges the classic Perkins Brailler to digital devices.
David Barth joined in September 2025, bringing global disability and government experience.
Perkins spans campus schooling, international programs, assistive technology, and braille library services.

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Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Health Reimbursement Arrangement
Flexible Spending Accounts
401(k) Plan with employer match
Paid Time Off
Education Benefits: Tuition reimbursement day one
Remote Work Options
Hybrid Work Options

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Perkins School for the Blind

Teaching Assistant

About the job