Occupational Therapy Assistant

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver direct occupational therapy services to students (individual and small group) as outlined in IEPs and treatment plans
• Carry out treatment plans developed by the supervising OT, with fidelity and adaptability to school routines
• Support student development in: Fine motor and visual-motor integration, Handwriting and pre-writing skills, Sensory processing and self-regulation, Gross motor coordination and postural control (as applicable), Self-care and school participation skills
• Collect data on student progress and report outcomes to the supervising OT
• Auxiliary tasks include: Assist with progress notes, session documentation, and IEP-related paperwork, Implement classroom-based strategies, accommodations, and sensory supports, Collaborate regularly with teachers, related service providers, and families, Participate in Inclusive Learning Team meetings, team conferences, and professional development activities

Qualifications

• Required Knowledge, Skills & Experience:
  • Associate’s degree from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program
  • Active New York State licensure/certification as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)
  • Current NBCOT certification
  • Ability to work under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to manage a school-based caseload and daily schedule
• Prior experience in a school-based or pediatric setting is preferred
• Familiarity with IEPs and treatment plans, AOTA ethics and multidisciplinary collaboration is preferred
• Experience supporting students with: Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Developmental delays, Sensory processing differences is preferred
• Comfort working in inclusive classrooms and special education environments is preferred
• Skills & Competencies:
  • Classroom-based intervention and consultation skills
  • Strong Clinical reasoning skills
  • Strong organization and time-management abilities
  • Flexibility and adaptability within fast-paced school settings
  • Ability to work some evenings and weekends
  • Flexibility with traveling to multiple locations
  • Ability to build rapport with children, families, and school staff
  • Data-driven decision-making and documentation accuracy