Occupational Therapist [83260]

Onward Education; Illinois; On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Onward Education in Lake County, Illinois is seeking a dedicated School Occupational Therapist for the 2026–2027 school year to support students' functional, sensory, and educational participation.

The OT will collaborate with students, families, teachers, and school staff to implement IEP/504 goals, develop independence, and promote access to the curriculum in a school setting. Interventions include handwriting support, sensory strategies, adaptive equipment, and collaboration in IEP meetings.

Qualifications

• Current Occupational Therapist license/credential required.
• School-based or pediatric experience preferred.
• Experience working with students with disabilities preferred.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary school team.
• Commitment to helping students develop independence and participate in their educational environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop handwriting, fine motor, and gross motor skills to support school participation.
• Address sensory processing needs and implement practical sensory strategies in the classroom.
• Evaluate and recommend adaptive equipment and classroom supports.
• Collaborate with teachers, families, and other specialists to support IEP/504 goals.
• Provide staff training and guidance on strategies to support individual student needs.
• Document progress and maintain accurate records in accordance with school requirements.

Skills

Communication skills

Collaboration

Organizational skills

Multidisciplinary teamwork

Student independence focus

Education

OT license/credential

Job description

Onward Education is partnering with a school district in Lake County, Illinois to hire a dedicated and compassionate School Occupational Therapist (OT) for the 2026–2027 school year.

The Occupational Therapist will work with students to develop and improve the physical, sensory, cognitive, and functional skills they need to successfully participate in the school environment. The OT will collaborate closely with students, families, teachers, and school staff to support educational access and student independence.

About the Role

Unlike clinical occupational therapy, school-based OT focuses specifically on skills that support a student's educational participation and success. The Occupational Therapist may provide services outlined in a student's Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan, helping students access the curriculum and participate more fully in academic, social, and school activities.

Examples of OT Interventions

• Support students with handwriting difficulties through instruction on proper grip, posture, and fine motor techniques.
• Develop sensory strategies or sensory break plans for students who experience self-regulation challenges.
• Adapt classroom tools and materials for students with physical or motor needs.
• Recommend adaptive equipment such as pencil grips, slant boards, specialized seating, or adaptive scissors.
• Support students with autism in developing functional, social, and play skills.
• Help students develop greater independence with school-based self-care activities when appropriate.

Key Responsibilities

Skill Development

• Support students in developing fine motor skills, including handwriting, cutting, and tool use.
• Address gross motor skills such as balance, posture, coordination, and motor planning as they relate to school participation.
• Develop individualized strategies to improve students' functional skills and independence.
• Help students successfully use classroom tools, materials, technology, and equipment.
• Recommend adaptations to classroom environments and materials based on individual student needs.
• Promote independence with functional school routines and self-care tasks when necessary.

Sensory Support

• Address sensory processing needs that may affect a student's ability to focus, self-regulate, or participate in learning.
• Develop practical sensory strategies and interventions for students and staff.
• Help create supportive and sensory-friendly classroom environments.

Assistive Technology & Adaptations

• Evaluate and recommend adaptive equipment and classroom supports.
• Train students and staff on the appropriate use of adaptive tools and equipment.
• Suggest modifications that allow students to participate more independently in classroom activities.
• Collaborate with teachers, parents, special education staff, and other related service providers.
• Participate in IEP meetings and contribute to the development of appropriate goals and accommodations.
• Provide staff with strategies and recommendations for supporting individual student needs.

Assessment & Documentation

• Conduct occupational therapy evaluations to identify students' functional needs within the school setting.
• Develop and implement therapy goals aligned with students' educational needs.
• Monitor student progress and maintain accurate documentation.
• Provide services in accordance with students' IEPs and applicable school requirements.

Qualifications

• Current Occupational Therapist license/credential required.
• School-based or pediatric experience preferred.
• Experience working with students with disabilities is preferred.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary school team.
• Commitment to helping students develop independence and successfully participate in their educational environment.

Why Join Us?

This is an excellent opportunity for an Occupational Therapist who enjoys working directly with students and collaborating with educators to make a meaningful impact in a school setting. You'll have the opportunity to support students' development, independence, and access to education while working as part of a collaborative school team.