Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

NPAworldwide; Birmingham (AL); On-site; USD 37,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

NPAworldwide is seeking a Daycare-Based Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to join our early childhood care team in Birmingham, AL. You will work under the supervision of a Licensed Occupational Therapist to support infants, toddlers, and preschoolers in developing fine motor, sensory, visual-motor, and self-help skills through play and daily routines.

The role focuses on direct therapy delivery, classroom integration, and collaboration with daycare staff to implement sensory

Qualifications

• Must have graduated from an accredited OTA program.
• Active (or eligible for) COTA license in Alabama.
• NBCOT certification; Pediatric CPR/First Aid.
• Experience with infants/toddlers/early childhood preferred.

Responsibilities

• Direct therapy delivery to toddlers and preschoolers under supervision of an OTR.
• Integrate functional skills through play and routine activities.
• Collaborate with daycare teachers and support staff for sensory breaks and seating adaptations.
• Document progress and therapy sessions; contribute to progress reports.
• Assist with adaptive seating, floor-time supports, and assistive play devices.
• Engage families with home activity ideas and guidance.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Patience

Creative problem-solving

Milestones knowledge

Education

OTA program graduate

COTA licensure in Alabama (eligibility)

NBCOT certification

Pediatric CPR/First Aid

Job description

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.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct Therapy Delivery: Implement targeted occupational therapy interventions to support toddlers' and preschoolers' individualized developmental goals and early intervention plans.
• Classroom & Play Integration: 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.
• Collaboration & Support: 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.
• Progress Tracking & Reporting: Document child progress toward specific developmental milestones, log therapy sessions, and contribute data for progress updates and team meetings under OTR guidance.
• Equipment & Environmental Setup: Assist with adaptive seating, floor-time support equipment, and assistive play devices tailored for infants, toddlers, and young children.
• Family Engagement: Maintain warm, open communication with parents and caregivers to provide home activity ideas and reinforce daily developmental strategies.

Qualifications

• Education: Graduate of an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program.
• Licensure: Active (or eligibility for) COTA license from the Alabama State Board of Occupational Therapy.
• Certifications: Current NBCOT certification and Pediatric CPR/First Aid certification.
• Experience: Prior experience working with infants, toddlers, or early childhood pediatric populations preferred.
• Skills: Strong interpersonal skills, patience, creative play-based problem-solving, and deep knowledge of early childhood developmental milestones.

Why Is This a Great Opportunity

Join our early learning community in Birmingham and make a direct, positive impact on young children's growth and development!

Salary Type : Hourly

Salary Min : $ 27

Salary Max : $ 32

Currency Type : USD