Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (Cota)

DLU Healthcare; City of Ithaca (NY); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Oak Hill Manor in Ithaca, NY seeks a skilled Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to join our rehab team. You will work with the OT to implement treatment plans, conduct therapeutic activities, and help residents reach maximum independence.

Willing to accept new grads! Full-time with Monday–Friday shifts; weekend options may be available. Training can be provided for EMR/d documentation and billing tasks.

Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program.
• Current NBCOT certification as an OTA.
• Licensure as an OTA in New York state.
• Knowledge of OT principles and techniques used in SNF/geriatric settings.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with residents and team.
• Ability to work collaboratively and follow supervising OT directions.
• Proficiency with EMR systems; training can be provided.
• Compassion and empathy for elderly residents.

Responsibilities

• Implements treatment programs designed by the supervising OT to improve ADLs and strengthening.
• Educates residents, families, and caregivers on therapeutic techniques and safety.
• Accurately charts daily notes, progress reports, and billing information per NYS and Medicare guidelines.
• Coordinates care with OTRs, PTs, nurses, and social services for discharge planning.
• Assists with selecting and instructing on adaptive equipment to maximize independence.

Skills

Interpersonal communication

Team collaboration

EMR proficiency

Patient education

Education

NBCOT certified OTA

Licensed OTA in NY

OTA program graduation

Tools

Electronic Medical Records (EMR)

Job description

Oak Hill Manor is seeking skilled and compassionate Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (Cota) to join our team at a Skilled Nursing Facility in Ithaca, NY. As a Cota, you will work closely with the Occupational Therapist to provide comprehensive rehabilitation services to the residents. Your role will involve implementing treatment plans, conducting therapeutic activities, and assisting residents in achieving their maximum functional potential and independence.

Willing to accept new grads!

Full-time

Monday-Friday

Weekends may be an option as well

Core Responsibilities

• Treatment Implementation: Executes treatment programs designed by the OTR to improve ADLs (dressing, feeding, bathing) and strengthening, following physician orders.

• Resident Care & Education: Instructs residents, families, and caregivers in therapeutic techniques, energy conservation, and safety measures.

• Documentation & Billing: Accurately charts daily notes, progress reports, and billing information in accordance with NYS regulations and Medicare guidelines.

• Coordination of Care: Collaborates with OTRs, physical therapists, nurses, and social services to coordinate care, participate in Medicare meetings, and prepare for resident discharge.

• Equipment Management: Assists with selecting, ordering, and instructing on adaptive equipment to maximize independence.

  Qualifications:

  • Graduation from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program.

  • Current certification as an Occupational Therapy Assistant by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).

  • Licensure as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant in the state of New York.

  • Knowledge of occupational therapy principles, techniques, and interventions commonly used in a Skilled Nursing Facility or geriatric setting.

  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively interact with residents, family members, and the healthcare team.

  • Ability to work collaboratively and follow directions from the supervising Occupational Therapist.

  • Proficiency in using electronic medical record systems and documentation software. Training can be provided

  • Compassion, empathy, and a genuine desire to improve the quality of life for elderly residents.