Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA)

About the role

The McCarton Foundation is seeking a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to support children with developmental disabilities. The role involves providing direct care treatment, supporting individualized treatment programs, and collaborating with an interdisciplinary team.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct care treatment to children ages 0–3 under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist, across center-based, home, or tele-therapy settings.
• Support individualized treatment programs to help children build motor, sensory, and developmental skills.
• Document services through digital platforms (daily logs, progress reports, IFSP notes).
• Communicate with families and caregivers regarding treatment plans and progress.
• Collaborate with an interdisciplinary team (OT, Speech, ABA, PT) to create integrated, child-centered programming.
• Guide paraprofessionals in implementing therapeutic activities, modeling best practices, and ensuring quality of care.
• Participate in family meetings, staff training, and clinical supervision.
• Maintain credentials through ongoing professional development.

Requirements

• Licenses: NYS COTA Licensure required.
• Education: At minimum an associate’s degree in occupational therapy assistant from an accredited institution.
• Experience: Minimum 2 years of combined experience working with children, which may include:
• Direct experience in pediatric occupational therapy OR
• Related experience in early childhood education, special education, speech/physical therapy, or other child development disciplines.
• Reduced years of work experience may be considered for candidates who hold a bachelor’s degree in occupational therapy.
• At least some hands-on experience (internships, clinical placements, or work experience) with children with developmental disabilities and/or autism.
• Prior experience collaborating with paraprofessionals, assistants, or classroom aides is strongly preferred.

Qualifications

• Knowledge: OT principles and evidence-based pediatric practices; early Intervention regulations and child health and safety procedures, including CPR, first aid, and emergency response protocols.
• Skills: Strong interpersonal communication skills with children, families, and interdisciplinary teams; Ability to clearly explain treatment plans, model activities for paraprofessionals, and provide guidance in a supportive manner; Flexibility and adaptability in dynamic environments. Ability to efficiently enter and manage information in electronic health records and other digital platforms.
• Languages: Fluency in English is essential. Working knowledge of Spanish is an asset.

Benefits

• Paid holidays, PTO, and sick leave.
• 401(k) program.
• Health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• Availability of clinical resources for professional growth.
• Valuable mentorship and hands-on supervision from experienced and qualified staff.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• This position may be eligible for employment visa sponsorship.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift/carry children (30–40 lbs) and support physical activities.
• Ability to walk, stand, or sit for up to 8 hours.

About Us

The McCarton Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing exceptional treatment and services to children with autism and other developmental disabilities. We believe in the potential of every child with developmental disabilities and strive to help them reach their full potential. Our McCarton Integrated Model combines speech and language therapy, fine and gross motor therapy, sensory integration therapy, socialization with peers, developmental play skills, and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy.

Conditions & Benefits

• Schedule: 7:30 am - 4:00 pm, Monday - Friday.
• Benefits: Paid holidays, PTO, and sick leave. 401(k) program. Health, dental, vision, and life insurance. Availability of clinical resources for professional growth. Valuable mentorship and hands-on supervision from experienced and qualified staff. Opportunities for professional growth and development. This position may be eligible for employment visa sponsorship.

Equal Employment Opportunity

McCarton provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants, prohibiting discrimination and harassment based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Apply Now

Ready to make a difference? Apply today to join our team and help children reach their fullest potential.