Occupational Therapist

Esperanza Community Services; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 59,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

Esperanza Community Services in Chicago, IL seeks a licensed Occupational Therapist to evaluate, plan, and provide therapy for students and adults with developmental disabilities. The OT will collaborate with educators, families, and staff to promote participation, independence, and functional skill development.

Responsibilities include evaluating needs, designing individualized treatment plans, and ensuring compliance with IDEA and ISBE regulations.

Qualifications

• Master's or Doctoral degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program.
• Current Illinois Occupational Therapist license in good standing.
• Knowledge of pediatric occupational therapy practices and special education regulations.
• Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.

Responsibilities

• Assess and evaluate to determine student/member needs and eligibility for services.
• Develop and implement individualized OT treatment plans aligned with IEP/PCP goals.
• Provide direct and consultative OT services in various settings (individual, small groups, classroom).
• Collaborate with educators, families, and staff to promote participation and independence.
• Monitor progress and collect data for treatment planning and reporting.

Skills

Multidisciplinary teamwork

Education

Master's or Doctoral degree in Occupational Therapy

Illinois OT license (current and in good standing)

Tools

Assistive technology

Job description

Company Description Esperanza Community Services, founded in 1969, is dedicated to empowering individuals with developmental disabilities through inclusive, client-centered programs. The organization provides a comprehensive range of services, including education, behavioral therapy, vocational training, and community integration, tailored to individual needs. A multidisciplinary team of behavior analysts, educators, therapists, and support staff collaborates closely with families, caregivers, and community partners to build a strong network of support. Esperanza emphasizes personalized care that fosters growth, independence, and a sense of belonging for every individual. Team members join a mission-driven community committed to embracing diversity and creating opportunities for each person to thrive.

Role Description: The Occupational Therapist (OT) evaluates, plans, and implements occupational therapy services for students & adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and other special needs. The Occupational Therapist collaborates with educators, related service providers, families, and support staff to promote student participation, independence, functional skill development, sensory regulation, and access to the educational environment. Services are provided in accordance with students & members IEP/Personal Plan, applicable regulations, and agency policies.

Job Duties

Assessment and Evaluation:

• Conduct occupational therapy evaluations and re-evaluations to determine student/member needs and eligibility for services.
• Assess fine motor, visual motor, sensory processing, self-care, adaptive functioning, and functional participation skills.
• Interpret evaluation results and prepare comprehensive written reports.
• Participate in multidisciplinary evaluations and eligibility determinations.

Direct Service:

• Develop and implement individualized occupational therapy treatment plans aligned with IEP/PCP goals.
• Provide direct and consultative occupational therapy services in individual, small-groups, and classroom settings.
• Adapt materials, equipment, and environments to support student participation and learning.
• Recommend and monitor adaptive equipment, assistive technology, and environmental modifications.

IEP/PCP Development and Compliance:

• Participate as an active member of the IEP/PCP team.
• Develop measurable occupational therapy goals and objectives based on assessment findings.
• Monitor student progress and collect data to support treatment planning and IEP/PCP reporting.
• Complete progress reports and required documentation in accordance with school, state, and referral district requirements.
• Maintain compliance with IDEA, ISBE, DHS regulations, and agency policies.

Collaboration and Consultation:

• Collaborate with interdisciplinary team to support student/member success.
• Provide consultation and training to staff regarding sensory strategies, adaptive needs, and classroom accommodations.
• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and case conferences.
• Maintain effective communication with parents and guardians regarding student progress and recommendations.

Qualifications Required

• Master's or Doctoral degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program.
• Current Illinois Occupational Therapist license in good standing.
• Knowledge of pediatric occupational therapy practices and special education regulations.
• Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.

Preferred

• Experience working with students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, sensory processing challenges, and/or significant behavioral needs.
• Experience in a school, therapeutic day school, or pediatric setting.
• Experience with assistive technology and adaptive equipment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to climb stairs on a daily basis
• Ability to stoop, crouch, stand or kneel for long periods of time (greater than 20 minutes)
• Participate in strenuous physical activity for a minimum of 20 continuous minutes
• Ability to lift or move up to 100 lbs
• Maintain relevant certification and training including crisis de-escalation training certification (PCM, Safety Care, etc.)
• Ability to multitask in a fast paced environment while remaining professional with staff, students, and outside vendors
• Ability to physically implement occupational therapy interventions and support student mobility and positioning needs.

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: Starting at $65,000 depending on relevant experience