Empower Students as a School-Based COTA

Partners-in-Special-Education; Pasadena (CA); On-site; USD 41,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Partners-in-Special-Education seeks an Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to support students with special needs in daily living activities and educational participation. You will implement therapy programs under supervision, promote independence, and collaborate with staff and families.

Duties include observing, data collection, assisting with positioning, feeding skills, and participating in CPI-based safety procedures as needed. CA licensure required; on-site role in Pasadena area schools.

Qualifications

• Ability to read, write and communicate in English to understand directions and students.
• Experience working with students with special needs preferred.
• Physical ability to move about the building, including stairs.
• Ability to lift and position students (30-80 pounds) when needed.
• Ability to make minor decisions with minimal supervision.
• Willingness to participate in behavior management and CPI procedures.

Responsibilities

• Promote independence in activities of daily living through problem solving and observation.
• Observe, problem solve and suggest positioning techniques to enhance participation.
• Consult and assist classroom staff through gathering information at team meetings.
• Discuss and exchange information with the occupational therapist about students.
• Utilize task analysis to suggest techniques for feeding and daily living skills.
• Implement the program prescribed by the occupational therapist based on goals.
• Collaborate with colleagues and parents to plan and implement student programs.
• Assist occupational therapist by collecting data on progress toward goals.
• Assist in formulating new goals based on data analysis.
• Assume other duties and special projects as assigned.

Skills

English communication

Experience with special needs

Mobility & stairs

Lift & position students

Decision making

CPI training / crisis skills

Education

COTA licensure (CA)

Job description

Partners-in-Special-Education seeks an Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to support students with special needs in daily living activities and educational participation. You will implement therapy programs under supervision, promote independence, and collaborate with staff and families.

Duties include observing, data collection, assisting with positioning, feeding skills, and participating in CPI-based safety procedures as needed. CA licensure required; on-site role in Pasadena area schools.