Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)

Spectrum Center Schools and Programs

Fairfield (CA)

On-site

USD 65,000 - 90,000

Full time

37 hours ago

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Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Vision

Annual Education Stipend

Telehealth services

Life & Disability Insurance

401k Retirement Plan

Paid Time Off

Growth & Development

Job summary

Spectrum Center Schools and Programs is seeking a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to join our Special Education team. You will deliver targeted OT services to students in Grades K-12 under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist, aligning with IEPs and district protocols.

Responsibilities include evaluations support, progress documentation, collaboration with educators, and travel across multiple school locations to ensure consistent service delivery.

Qualifications

ACOTE-accredited OTA degree required or in-progress licensure as COTA.
Experience providing OT instruction/therapy in special education or behavioral health settings preferred.
Willingness to travel to support multiple Spectrum School locations.
Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills, with ability to manage IEP goals and data.

Responsibilities

Deliver occupational therapy interventions aligned with IEPs and schedules.
Assist the Occupational Therapist during evaluations and data collection.
Maintain accurate progress notes, reports, and required records.
Collaborate with teachers and staff to integrate goals into the classroom.
Modify environments and materials under supervision to support student access.
Provide training to staff and families on adaptive equipment and techniques.
Maintain therapy tools and equipment; report needs to supervisor.
Attend IEP meetings and participate in professional development.
Uphold confidentiality and professional ethics in all interactions.
Travel regularly to support multiple Spectrum School locations.

Skills

IEP collaboration

Therapy data collection

Progress documentation

Crisis management training

Education

ACOTE-accredited OTA program

COTA licensure in progress

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Spectrum Center Schools and Programs, a growing, dynamic organization with a social mission to offer hope, is seeking a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to join our award-winning Special Education team and perform meaningful work in a culture that welcomes innovation, encourages creative expression and offers limitless potential for personal and professional satisfaction!

If you excel in a collaborative, student-centered environment, seek a career that truly impacts the lives of children with special needs, and bring creativity, compassion, a positive attitude, and outstanding dedication —

As a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant, you will play a critical role in empowering students in Grades K-12 with special needs to achieve educational success by delivering impactful occupational therapy services under the guidance of a licensed Occupational Therapist, consistently upholding excellence across multiple school locations and collaborative educational teams.

Providing targeted occupational therapy interventions aligned with students' Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), diligently following designated service hours and established schedules.
Assisting the Occupational Therapist during evaluations by collecting pertinent data, administering standardized assessments, and observing students to accurately determine their functional capabilities and developmental needs.
Maintaining precise, organized, and timely documentation of student progress, including daily session notes, periodic progress reports, and additional required records, complying fully with district and program protocols.
Collaborating closely with educators and support staff to seamlessly integrate therapeutic goals into classroom activities, offering strategies and accommodations to optimize student achievement.
Modifying classroom environments, resources, and instructional materials, under Occupational Therapist supervision, to enhance student engagement and access to the curriculum.
Assisting with training and educating school staff and families on the effective use of adaptive equipment and practical techniques to boost students' functional independence.
Ensuring therapy tools, equipment, and supplies are maintained in excellent condition, promptly reporting any issues or replacement needs to the supervising Occupational Therapist.
Attending and actively participating in IEP meetings, collaborative team discussions, and professional development activities, providing valuable input to enhance student planning and support.
Upholding professional and ethical standards consistently in interactions with students, families, and team members, emphasizing confidentiality and cultural respect.
Traveling regularly and maintaining a consistent onsite presence to effectively support multiple Spectrum School locations within your designated region.
Performing additional tasks as assigned to advance the mission and effectiveness of Spectrum Center Schools and Programs.

Qualifications Required:

Associate's degree or higher in occupational therapy from an ACOTE-accredited program.
Bachelors degree or higher in occupational therapy or a related field of study preferred.
Licensed currently or in the process of obtaining a certified occupational therapy assistant (COTA) credential.
Ability to obtain and maintain certification in company approved crisis management training.
Prior experience and/or knowledge in providing occupational therapy instruction, guidance and support; preferably in an alternative special education and/or behavioral health program setting.
Prior experience and/or knowledge in special education services and compliance, particularly for students with autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, emotional behavioral disorders and/or other related disabilities.
Prior experience and/or knowledge in working with students with individualized education plans (IEP's) preferred.
Proficiency in providing motivation and having critical conversations with students that help move them toward realistic goals.
Ability to think and act quickly and calmly in an emergency and make independent decisions.
Proven ability to effectively prioritize tasks and meet deadlines while maintaining organization and attention to detail.
Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of staff members, students, parents and the public.
Advanced oral and written communication, organization, conflict resolution, multitasking, problem solving and decision-making ability.
Well-versed in the use of relevant technology including experience with computers, Microsoft Office Suite, database entry and basic office equipment.

As a vital part of ChanceLight Behavioral Health, Therapy, & Education, a nationally recognized leader in alternative and special education programs for children and young adults, we are committed to changing the lives of children by providing them with the opportunity to create successful, independent futures. Operating a variety of specialized program centers, we partner with more than 235 school districts nationwide to provide instructional and behavioral services in a safe, trusting environment where students can achieve their full potential.

At ChanceLight we believe in providing more than just a job, as a member of our team you'll receive the opportunity to make meaningful impacts, the support needed to achieve success, and all the tools essential to reaching your personal & professional fulfillment! Your path to a truly rewarding career starts here – where growth, empowerment, and collaboration define our culture; and every day is a Chance to transform lives through education!

Perks and Benefits Include: