Occupational Therapist [83109]

Onward Education; Illinois; On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Benefits package

Diverse placement options

Streamlined hiring process

Ongoing recruiter support

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Onward Education is seeking a School-Based Occupational Therapist for the 2026–2027 school year in Cook County, Illinois. This full-time role focuses on helping students develop functional skills to participate in the school day, with collaboration among educators, families, and multidisciplinary teams.

You will provide OT services aligned with IEP/504 goals, evaluate student needs, and implement intervention strategies to support educational participation.

Qualifications

• Licensed Occupational Therapist with active IL license.
• Experience in school-based or pediatric settings preferred.
• Knowledge of IEP processes and educational service delivery.
• Strong written and verbal communication and collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide school-based OT services aligned with IEP/504 goals.
• Evaluate student needs and develop individualized intervention plans.
• Support fine motor, sensory processing, and self-regulation to access education.
• Recommend adaptive equipment and assistive technology as appropriate.
• Collaborate with teachers, families and related service providers.
• Monitor progress and adjust interventions to meet goals.
• Maintain documentation in compliance with district and state requirements.
• Participate in IEP and multidisciplinary team meetings.

Skills

Clear communication

Documentation

Collaboration

IEP familiarity

Education

Illinois OT license

Job description

Onward Education is a specialized education staffing and talent solutions company that helps educators, therapists, and school health professionals find rewarding opportunities with school districts nationwide. We’re currently hiring a School-Based Occupational Therapist (OT) for the 2026–2027 school year in Cook County, Illinois.

This full-time opportunity offers the chance to make a meaningful impact supporting students in the educational setting. As a School-Based Occupational Therapist, you will help students develop the fine motor, sensory, self-care, and functional skills needed to access their education and participate successfully throughout the school day. You'll collaborate with educators, families, and multidisciplinary teams to promote student growth and independence.

• Location: Onsite in Cook County, IL
• School Year: 2026–2027
• Schedule: Full-Time, Monday–Friday
• Weekly Hours: Full-time school hours
• Start Date: August 2026 (or based on district needs)

Responsibilities

• Provide school-based occupational therapy services aligned with IEP and 504 goals.
• Evaluate student needs and develop individualized intervention strategies to support educational participation.
• Support students with fine motor, visual motor, sensory processing, and self-regulation skills.
• Recommend and implement adaptive equipment, assistive technology, and environmental modifications as appropriate.
• Collaborate with teachers, families, and related service providers to support student success across school environments.
• Monitor student progress and adjust interventions as needed to support goal achievement.
• Maintain accurate documentation and compliance with school, district, state, and federal requirements.
• Participate in IEP meetings, multidisciplinary team meetings, and professional development activities.

Qualifications

• Valid Illinois Occupational Therapist license
• School-based or pediatric experience preferred
• Knowledge of IEP processes, educational service delivery, and special education regulations
• Strong communication, documentation, and collaboration skills
• Ability to work onsite and effectively support students in an educational setting

What We Offer

• Competitive pay and benefits package.
• Access to a wide network of schools and districts for diverse placement options.
• Streamlined hiring process to get you started quickly.
• Ongoing communication and advocacy throughout your placement.
• Personalized support from dedicated recruiting professionals.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.

Why Apply?

This is a great opportunity for an OT seeking a full‑time school-year role focused on supporting student independence, participation, and success throughout the academic year. Join a collaborative team dedicated to helping students achieve their goals and thrive in the classroom.