Onward Search Education is a specialized education staffing and talent solutions company that helps educators, therapists, and school health professionals find top jobs with the nation’s top schools. We’re partnering with a school district in Lake County, Illinois to hire a dedicated Special Education Teacher for a transition program serving students ages 18–22. This is a full-time position available immediately and will continue for the next several months, offering a rewarding opportunity to support young adults as they build essential life and vocational skills for independence.

The Special Education Teacher will provide instruction and transition support to students with diverse learning needs as they prepare for post-secondary life. This role focuses on developing academic, functional, and vocational skills that promote independence, employment readiness, and community participation. The teacher will work closely with students, families, and transition teams to help each student achieve their individual goals.

Position Details

• Position: Special Education Teacher (Transition Program)

• Location: In-person, Lake County, IL

• Start Date: As soon as possible

• End Date: TBD

• Schedule: Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM – 3:00 PM

• Weekly Hours: 37.5 hours per week

• Caseload: Approximately 6–7 students

• Student Age Range: 18–22 years old

• School Year: 2025–2026

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) tailored to transition-age students.

• Provide direct instruction in academic, vocational, and life skills areas to promote independence.

• Collaborate with families, vocational partners, and community agencies to support post-school outcomes.

• Facilitate community-based learning experiences and job readiness training.

• Monitor and document student progress toward transition goals and adjust programming as needed.

• Maintain compliance with state and federal special education regulations and documentation requirements.

Qualifications

• Valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with LBS1 or LBS2 endorsement (required).

• Bachelor’s degree in Special Education or a related field (required); Master’s preferred.

• Experience working with transition-age students or in life-skills/vocational programs (preferred).

• Strong collaboration, communication, and organizational skills.

• Commitment to fostering independence and positive outcomes for students with disabilities.

What We Offer

• Competitive pay and comprehensive benefits package.

• Access to a wide network of schools and districts for diverse placement options.

• Streamlined hiring process to get you started quickly.

• Ongoing communication and advocacy throughout your placement.

• Personalized support from dedicated recruiting professionals.

• Opportunities for professional growth and development

Why Apply?

If you’re passionate about helping young adults gain the skills they need to succeed beyond the classroom, this is the opportunity for you! Join a team of dedicated professionals working to make a lasting impact on students’ lives during a crucial stage of their development.

Ready to join us? Apply today – we can’t wait to hear from you!

Employer Details:

• Onward Search is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to a policy of non-discrimination in an employment with regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status or any other classification protected by federal, state and local laws and ordinances. Candidates must be at least 18 years old to be considered for employment. EOE/M/F/D/V/SO.
• In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire.
• Onward Search is unable to support 1099 / Corp-to-Corp or Independent Contractor arrangements at this time. All freelancers will be paid as W2 employees.
• Onward Search offers medical, dental, vision benefits, as well as a 401k program, for all eligible full time temporary assignments.
• Onward Search is a drug-free workplace.
• Onward Search is a nationwide staffing agency and talent solutions provider specializing in creative, marketing and technology. Our clients are continuously turning to us to fill their open positions. Therefore, there is no application deadline for this position, as we are seeking candidates for this type of role across all our clients on an ongoing basis.