COTA Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant

River-Towne-Center-Columbus-Cente; Columbus (GA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

River Towne Center in Columbus, GA is seeking a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to support an Occupational Therapist in delivering rehabilitation services.

You will help patients improve mobility and functional skills for daily living, under supervision, in a skilled nursing facility.

Qualifications

• Leadership, organizational and communication skills required.
• Collaborative work with interdisciplinary teams and residents’ families.
• Basic computer proficiency and documentation skills essential.
• Experience with electronic documentation systems (e.g., PointClickCare) is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead therapeutic activities and exercises under the direction of occupational therapists.
• Test, evaluate and record patients’ physical and mental state.
• Analyze medical history to guide rehabilitation goals.
• Educate patients and families about therapy goals and progress.
• Maintain accurate treatment records and ensure equipment is in good working order.
• Present patient progress to care teams and adjust plans as needed.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Collaboration

Documentation

Education

Associate’s degree in occupational therapy

Georgia OT Aide certification

CPR certification

Tools

PointClickCare

Job description

Overview

Come Join us here at River Towne Center!

Just us and be part of our growing team of skilled caregivers in our newly renovated facility! River Towne Care and Rehabilitation Center, a Pyramid Healthcare facility, is in Columbus, GA. The Center provides long-term skilled nursing care and short-term post-acute rehabilitation, including a 30-bed ventilator unit. We are committed to the overall care of our residents through our culture, vision, and core values.

Job Summary

The Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA), supports the Occupational Therapist in conducting therapy treatments to improve patients’ mobility and physical health. COTAs help patients develop, recover, and maintain the skills needed for daily living and working.

Job Duties

• Lead therapeutic activities and exercises with patients under the direction of occupational therapists
• Testing, evaluating and recording the physical and mental state of patients
• Analyzing previous medical history when deciding on rehabilitation goals
• Encouraging and helping patients create a daily routine
• Consulting with doctors and other specialists on the best course of action
• Helping patients adjust and understand their health
• Teaching patients how to use home exercise and therapy equipment
• Ensuring equipment is in good working order
• Maintaining an accurate record of patient treatments
• Document patients' progress, including any changes in their physical and cognitive abilities
• Maintain a safe and clean treatment environment
• Educate patients and families about the goals and purpose of therapy
• Modify treatment activities as needed to meet the needs of patients with a wide range of abilities
• Participate in continuing education and professional development opportunities to stay current with best practices in the field
• Ensure compliance with SNF-specific therapy regulations and Medicare/Medicaid guidelines.
• Promote resident dignity and uphold facility standards for quality care and ethical practice.

Education Requirements

• Associate’s degree in occupational therapy.
• Valid Occupational Therapy Assistant Certification from Georgia Boards
• CPR certification required.

Qualifications

• Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams and residents' families.
• Basic computer proficiency and documentation skills.
• Experience with electronic documentation systems (e.g., PointClickCare) is a plus

Work Conditions

• Work is performed in a skilled nursing facility setting, with potential exposure to bodily fluids, chemicals, and other hazardous materials.
• Full-time, part-time, or PRN shifts may be available, including weekends and holidays as needed.
• Frequent interaction with residents, staff, and interdisciplinary teams.
• May require occasional evening or weekend hours, particularly during outbreaks, emergencies, or survey preparation.
• Must be able to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as required for infection control purposes.
• May be required to lift and carry objects over 10 lbs.
• Must be able to assist with or maneuver equipment such as wheelchairs, beds, and Hoyer lifts
• Frequent walking, standing, and occasional bending or kneeling may be necessary when conducting audits or inspections throughout the facility.
• Must be able to wear appropriate PPE as required and lift educational materials or small equipment.

Tasks assigned to this position may involve potential and/or direct exposure to blood, body fluids, infectious diseases, air contaminants, and hazardous chemicals.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by law.