COTA

Excel Prep; Bloomington (IL); On-site; USD 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Excel Prep is seeking a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) in Illinois to work under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist. The role focuses on implementing treatment plans, monitoring progress, and collaborating with families to support skill development in academic, home, or community settings.

The COTA will address tasks related to fine motor, sensory processing, self-care, and daily living skills, while maintaining thorough documentation and compliance with safety

Qualifications

• Associate degree from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program.
• NBCOT certification current or eligible for Illinois (or applicable state).
• State licensure or eligibility for licensure as a COTA.

Responsibilities

• Assist in carrying out individualized therapy plans under supervision of a licensed OT.
• Provide direct therapy targeting fine motor, sensory processing, self-care, and life skills.
• Adapt activities and environments to client needs.
• Collect and record progress data toward goals.
• Monitor and report changes in performance to the supervising OT.
• Collaborate with teachers, parents, and team members to integrate therapy strategies.
• Maintain documentation, confidentiality, and safety compliance.
• Participate in meetings, trainings, and professional development.

Skills

Strong communication

Collaboration

Organizational skills

Education

Associate degree in OTAS program

Job description

Job Title: Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)
Reports To: Occupational Therapist (OTR/L) / Director of Special Education / Rehabilitation Manager
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt or Exempt (depending on setting)

Position Summary:
The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) works under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist to provide therapy services that help clients or students develop, improve, and maintain daily living and functional skills. The COTA assists in implementing treatment plans, monitoring progress, and collaborating with other professionals and families to support success in academic, home, or community environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in carrying out individualized occupational therapy treatment plans designed by the supervising OT.
• Provide direct therapy services to address fine motor skills, sensory processing, self-care, and functional life skills.
• Adapt activities, materials, and environments to meet client/student needs.
• Collect and record accurate data on progress toward goals.
• Monitor and report changes in client/student performance to the supervising OT.
• Collaborate with teachers, parents, and other team members to integrate therapy strategies into daily routines.
• Maintain compliance with documentation requirements, confidentiality standards, and safety regulations.
• Participate in meetings, trainings, and professional development activities.

Qualifications

• Associate degree from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program.
• Current certification through the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
• State licensure or eligibility for licensure as a COTA in Illinois (or applicable state).
• Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.
• Ability to follow treatment plans and adapt interventions under the direction of an OT.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in school-based, pediatric, or rehabilitation settings.
• Knowledge of sensory integration strategies and adaptive equipment.
• Familiarity with assistive technology and modifications for accessibility.

Working Conditions

• School, clinic, hospital, or home-based environment depending on setting.
• May require travel between locations.
• Position may involve lifting or assisting clients with mobility needs.