Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

About the Role

We are seeking a dedicated, enthusiastic Daycare-Based Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to join our early childhood care team in Birmingham. Working under the supervision of a Licensed Occupational Therapist (OTR), you will help infants, toddlers, and preschoolers build the fine motor, sensory, visual-motor, and self-help skills necessary to participate fully in daily play, routines, and early learning environments.

Responsibilities

• Implement targeted occupational therapy interventions to support toddlers' and preschoolers' individualized developmental goals and early intervention plans.
• Focus on functional skill-building through play, including fine motor grasp, tool use (crayons, safety scissors, eating utensils), sensory regulation, self-feeding, dressing, and navigating play spaces safely.
• Work closely with lead daycare teachers, early childhood aides, and support staff to implement sensory breaks, flexible seating modifications, and developmental accommodations during circle time and routine activities.
• Document child progress toward specific developmental milestones, log therapy sessions, and contribute data for progress updates and team meetings under OTR guidance.
• Assist with adaptive seating, floor-time support equipment, and assistive play devices tailored for infants, toddlers, and young children.
• Maintain warm, open communication with parents and caregivers to provide home activity ideas and reinforce daily developmental strategies.

Requirements

• Graduate of an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program.
• Active (or eligibility for) COTA license from the Alabama State Board of Occupational Therapy.
• Current NBCOT certification and Pediatric CPR/First Aid certification.
• Prior experience working with infants, toddlers, or early childhood pediatric populations preferred.

Skills

• Strong interpersonal skills
• Patience
• Creative play-based problem-solving
• Deep knowledge of early childhood developmental milestones

Pay

Hourly rate: $35 – $40 USD