Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

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

Job summary

We are seeking a Daycare-Based Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to support infants, toddlers, and preschoolers in our Tuscaloosa daycare, under the supervision of a Licensed Occupational Therapist. You will help develop fine motor, sensory, visual-motor, and self-help skills through targeted activities in daily play and routines.

Responsibilities include direct therapy, classroom integration, progress tracking, equipment setup, and family engagement to reinforce development at

Qualifications

• Graduate of an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program.
• Active (or eligible for) COTA license from the Alabama State Board of Occupational Therapy.
• NBCOT certification and Pediatric CPR/First Aid certification.
• Experience with infants, toddlers, or early childhood pediatric populations preferred.

Responsibilities

• Direct therapy delivery to support developmental goals and early intervention plans.
• Classroom and play-based integration to build fine motor, sensory, and self-help skills.
• Collaborate with daycare staff to implement sensory breaks and accommodations during routines.
• Document progress and contribute to progress updates under OTR guidance.
• Assist with adaptive seating and play equipment for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Patience

Creative problem solving

Early childhood milestones

Education

OTA program graduate

Job description

We are seeking a dedicated, enthusiastic Daycare-Based Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to join our early childhood care team in Tuscaloosa. 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 Tuscaloosa and make a direct, positive impact on young children's growth and development!

Salary

• Salary Type: Hourly
• Salary Min: $ 27
• Salary Max: $ 32
• Currency Type: USD