COTA | Occupational Therapy Assistant | PACE Program

About the Organization

Midland Care Connection is a not-for-profit, community-based organization in Topeka, Kansas, dedicated to helping older adults and seriously ill individuals stay independent and supported in their homes. Established in 1978, we offer a full continuum of care, including hospice, palliative care, home health, grief and loss counseling, and our signature PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) program. Our mission centers on "meeting individual needs through innovative care solutions," and we serve people across multiple counties in northeast Kansas.

About the PACE Program

The PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) program is designed to help older adults remain safely in their homes rather than entering nursing facilities. It provides complete medical care, rehabilitation, medications, transportation, social services, and supportive therapies—all coordinated by an interdisciplinary care team. Participants receive personalized care plans tailored to their unique needs, along with access to a PACE center for social activities, meals, and clinical services. By integrating medical and supportive care under one program, PACE helps seniors maintain independence, improve quality of life, and continue living in their communities with dignity.

About the Role

An Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) at the Midland Care PACE Program works under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist to help older adults remain safe, independent, and living in their homes and communities. The OTA carries out individualized treatment plans focused on activities of daily living such as dressing, bathing, transfers, mobility, and use of adaptive equipment. They provide hands-on therapy at the PACE center, in participants’ homes, and sometimes in community settings, while educating participants and caregivers on safety, fall prevention, and carry-over strategies. OTAs document participant progress, report changes to the interdisciplinary team, and may assist with durable medical equipment needs. Their role directly supports the PACE mission of improving function, quality of life, and preventing unnecessary nursing facility placement.

Responsibilities

• Carry out individualized treatment plans focused on activities of daily living (e.g., dressing, bathing, transfers, mobility).
• Provide hands-on therapy at the PACE center, participants’ homes, and community settings.
• Educate participants and caregivers on safety, fall prevention, and carry-over strategies.
• Document participant progress and report changes to the interdisciplinary team.
• Assist with durable medical equipment needs.

Requirements

• Certification as an Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) from an accredited program.
• At least one year of experience working with frail or elderly individuals.
• Ability to work under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist.
• Valid Kansas driver’s license.
• Automobile liability insurance.
• Reliable transportation.
• Motor vehicle record that meets organizational standards.

Preferred Qualifications

• Additional experience in geriatrics, community-based care, or PACE programs.
• Familiarity with adaptive equipment and assistive technologies.
• Current CPR or first aid certification.

Benefits

• Health insurance options for employees and dependents.
• Dental, vision, and prescription drug plans.
• Flexible Savings Accounts (FSA) or Health Savings Accounts (HSA), with employer contributions.
• Paid Time Off (PTO), Personal and Taking Care of You Days.
• Holiday pay (six holidays per year).
• 403(b) ERISA Retirement Plan, with employer match.
• Free group life and AD&D insurance of $20,000.
• On-site education center for professional development and CEU credits.
• Free Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for employees and dependents.
• Paid monthly volunteer time at non-profit organizations.
• Uniform Allowance Program.