COTA Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant

Avista Healthcare, Llc; Columbus (GA); On-site; USD 48,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

River Towne Care and Rehabilitation Center in Columbus, GA is seeking a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant. You will support the Occupational Therapist, help patients regain mobility, and contribute to personalized therapy plans.

The role emphasizes teamwork with interdisciplinary staff, patient education, and maintaining precise documentation while complying with facility standards and safety procedures.

Qualifications

• Bachelor-level or higher is not required; professional OT assistant credentials are specified.
• CPR certification is required.
• Experience with digital patient documentation is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Test, evaluate and record patient physical and mental state.
• Analyze medical history to set rehabilitation goals.
• Educate patients and families about therapy goals and progress.
• Collaborate with doctors and other specialists on treatment plans.
• Maintain accurate records of patient treatments and progress.
• Ensure a safe, clean treatment environment and proper PPE.

Skills

Leadership

Organizational skills

Communication

Team collaboration

Documentation

PointClickCare

Education

Associate’s degree in occupational therapy

Georgia OT Assistant Certification

CPR certification

Job description

Come Join us here at River Towne Center!

Overview

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:

• 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.