Job Description
Position Title
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) - Part-Time
Reports To
Licensed Occupational Therapist (OTR/L) and Exceptional Children (EC) Director
Employment Status
Part-Time, approximately 20 hours per week
Schedule
10-month school calendar; hours determined by student needs and caseload
Compensation
Hourly rate based on experience
Position Summary
The Part-Time Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) provides occupational therapy services to students under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist. The COTA supports students in developing the fine motor, sensory, visual-motor, and functional skills necessary to access and participate successfully in the educational environment. Services are provided in accordance with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), Section 504 Plans, and applicable state and federal regulations.
The COTA implements treatment plans developed by the supervising Occupational Therapist and collaborates with teachers, staff, and families to promote student success.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Implement occupational therapy interventions as directed by the supervising Occupational Therapist.
Provide direct and small-group therapy services to students in accordance with IEP goals and treatment plans.
Document therapy sessions, student progress, and attendance in a timely and accurate manner.
Collect data and communicate student progress to the supervising Occupational Therapist.
Assist with classroom accommodations, adaptive equipment, and environmental modifications.
Collaborate with teachers, administrators, related service providers, and families to support student needs.
Prepare and organize therapy materials and equipment.
Maintain confidentiality of student records in compliance with FERPA requirements.
Participate in IEP meetings and multidisciplinary team meetings as requested by the supervising Occupational Therapist.
Support implementation of sensory strategies and classroom interventions.
Monitor and report changes in student performance or concerns to the supervising Occupational Therapist.
Maintain compliance with state licensure requirements and continuing education expectations.
Perform other duties as assigned within the scope of COTA practice.
Qualifications
Associate degree from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program.
Current Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) credential.
Current state licensure or eligibility for licensure.
Experience working with children or in a school setting preferred.
Knowledge of IDEA, IEP processes, and school-based occupational therapy practices preferred.
Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of pediatric occupational therapy principles and interventions.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to maintain accurate documentation and records.
Proficiency in organization and time management.
Ability to adapt interventions based on student needs.
Familiarity with assistive technology and adaptive equipment.
Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and professional ethics.
Physical Requirements
Ability to lift, transfer, or assist students as needed (up to 50 pounds with assistance when appropriate).
Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, reaching, and sitting on the floor.
Ability to manipulate therapy equipment and materials.
Visual and auditory acuity necessary to monitor student participation and safety.
Work Environment
School classrooms, therapy spaces, playgrounds, and other educational settings.