Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

Bismarck Public Schools is accepting applications for a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant beginning the 2026-2027 school year. This position works 36-40 hours per week, 9 months per year.

About the role

The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) assists in providing occupational therapy services to students under the supervision of licensed therapists to support their educational goals.

Responsibilities

• Execute services as determined through the IEP process, including individual and group therapy activities.
• Assist in establishing, implementing, and collecting data on therapy goals and objectives.
• Modify school and classroom environments, tools, and materials to improve student functioning and access to activities.
• Participate in screening and assessment using standardized measures under the direction of supervising occupational therapists.
• Provide necessary documentation and maintain files and records in cooperation with the occupational therapist.
• Implement therapeutic activities and instruct students, teachers, parents, and other involved persons on proper techniques and use of equipment.
• Ensure treatment equipment and supplies are in clean and proper working condition.
• Consult with therapists, teachers, instructional assistants, and families to review and revise students' therapy goals and develop plans for services.
• Attend meetings and workshops to convey and receive information and best practices for school OT delivery.
• Transport necessary materials and equipment for therapy sessions.
• Troubleshoot and maintain assistive devices to ensure they are in proper working order.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding student information.
• Follow school policies and procedures.
• Perform additional tasks as assigned to support the effective operation of the work unit.

Requirements

• Associate degree in Occupational Therapy from an approved and accredited program.
• Initial certification with the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
• Licensed by the North Dakota State Board of Occupational Therapy Practice.
• Minimum of one year of experience with a background in pediatrics, school systems, assistive technology, or sensory integration is desirable.
• Criminal Justice Fingerprint/Background Clearance.

Skills

• Proficient in basic computer skills.
• Capable of planning and executing therapy activities.
• Competent in maintaining accurate records.
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail.
• Understanding of occupational therapy principles and practices.
• Familiarity with IEP processes and educational goals for students with disabilities.
• Knowledge of assistive technology and therapeutic equipment.
• Ability to adapt to various work environments and changing conditions.
• Effective communication with diverse groups.
• Ability to handle physical demands, including lifting and managing students with disabilities.
• Maintain confidentiality and work as part of a team.

Work Environment

Varies from well-equipped therapy rooms to hallways or other noisy, crowded areas due to space constraints. Requires the lifting and physical handling of students of all ages with multiple disabilities. Involves precautions regarding bodily fluids and physical handling during feeding, oral motor programming, and toileting.

Schedule

This position works 36-40 hours per week, 9 months per year.