Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)

About the role

Berlin Health & Rehabilitation Center in Barre, Vermont seeks a full‑time Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to join its in‑house rehabilitation team. The COTA will provide skilled occupational therapy interventions under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist, helping residents improve independence, functional abilities, and quality of life in a supportive clinical environment. New graduates are welcome to apply.

Responsibilities

• Provide skilled occupational therapy interventions under the supervision and direction of a licensed Occupational Therapist.
• Implement individualized treatment plans developed by the Occupational Therapist based on each resident’s needs and functional goals.
• Provide therapeutic activities and exercises designed to improve strength, coordination, balance, range of motion, motor skills, and functional independence.
• Assist residents with activities of daily living (ADLs), including dressing, grooming, bathing, feeding, toileting, and functional mobility as appropriate.
• Monitor resident responses to treatment and communicate progress, concerns, and changes to the supervising Occupational Therapist.
• Assist with functional mobility, transfers, positioning, and safety techniques as appropriate.
• Provide education and training to residents, families, and caregivers in collaboration with the Occupational Therapist.
• Assist with adaptive equipment and compensatory techniques to promote independence and safety.
• Participate in care planning and interdisciplinary team meetings as required.
• Complete daily treatment documentation and other required clinical records accurately and timely.
• Follow the established plan of care, facility policies, professional standards, and applicable state and federal regulations.
• Collaborate with Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, Physical Therapy Assistants, nursing staff, and other members of the interdisciplinary team.
• Attend required meetings, in‑services, and other duties as assigned by the Director of Rehabilitation.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a skilled nursing facility (SNF), rehabilitation, long‑term care, or healthcare setting preferred.
• New graduates are welcome to apply.
• Knowledge of occupational therapy treatment techniques and rehabilitation practices.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively with residents with varying physical, cognitive, and functional abilities.
• Compassionate, patient‑centered approach to care.
• Ability to work collaboratively with Occupational Therapists and the interdisciplinary team.
• Familiarity with Net Health or similar electronic documentation systems preferred.

Requirements

• Current and active Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) license/certification in Vermont.
• Must meet all applicable Vermont licensing and regulatory requirements.
• Must be in good standing with applicable licensing and regulatory agencies.
• Graduate of an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program.
• Ability to provide safe, effective, and compassionate resident care.

Benefits

• Full‑time opportunity
• In‑house rehabilitation team
• Competitive compensation and benefits