Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

Your Health; Newberry (SC); On-site; USD 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A healthcare organization in South Carolina is seeking a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant to assist occupational therapists and directly work with patients to improve their abilities in daily activities. This is an entry-level, full-time position that requires an associate degree and current certification. Candidates should have strong interpersonal skills and a compassionate approach to patient care, along with the ability to work collaboratively within a team.

Qualifications

• Associate degree from an accredited occupational therapy assistant program.
• Current certification as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA).
• State licensure or eligibility for licensure as a COTA.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Compassion, patience, and empathy when working with patients.

Responsibilities

• Assist occupational therapists with individualized treatment programs.
• Work directly with patients on therapeutic exercises.
• Document patient progress and treatment interventions.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Empathy

Attention to detail

Physical stamina

Education

Associate degree from accredited program

Certification as COTA

State licensure or eligibility

Job description

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

3 days ago – Be among the first 25 applicants.

Responsibilities

• Assist occupational therapists in planning, implementing, and evaluating individualized treatment programs to help patients develop, regain, or maintain their ability to perform daily activities.
• Work directly with patients to carry out therapeutic exercises, activities, and interventions designed to improve motor skills, mobility, strength, coordination, and sensory processing.
• Collaborate with occupational therapists to modify treatment plans based on patient progress, goals, and changing needs.
• Instruct patients and their families on exercises, adaptive equipment usage, and techniques to promote independence and functional abilities in daily living tasks.
• Document patient progress, treatment interventions, and outcomes accurately and timely in accordance with regulatory and facility guidelines.
• Assist in the procurement and maintenance of adaptive equipment and assistive devices to support patient rehabilitation goals.
• Maintain a safe and clean therapy environment, adhering to infection control protocols and ensuring equipment safety.
• Communicate effectively with interdisciplinary team members, including occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech‑language pathologists, nurses, and physicians, to coordinate patient care and goals.
• Stay current with best practices, research findings, and advancements in occupational therapy through continuing education and professional development activities.
• Uphold ethical standards and professional conduct as outlined by relevant regulatory bodies and professional organizations.

Qualifications

• Associate degree from an accredited occupational therapy assistant program.
• Current certification as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) issued by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
• State licensure or eligibility for licensure as a COTA.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Compassion, patience, and empathy when working with patients facing physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges.
• Attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate documentation.
• Physical stamina and dexterity to assist patients with mobility and physical activities.
• Knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and ethical guidelines governing occupational therapy practice.
• Prior experience in a healthcare or rehabilitation setting may be preferred.

Seniority Level

• Entry level

Employment Type

• Full‑time

Job Function

• Strategy/Planning and Information Technology
• Hospital and Health Care Industries