Occupational Therapist [83534]

Onward Education; Wheeling (IL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay package

Wide school network access

Streamlined hiring process

Ongoing communication and advocacy

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Onward Education seeks an Occupational Therapist to support elementary and middle school students in Cook County, IL. The role is on-site and focuses on delivering school-based OT services across multiple buildings during the 2026–2027 year.

Responsibilities include evaluating students, developing IEP-aligned goals, and collaborating with families and a multidisciplinary team. Strong independence and familiarity with assistive technology and sensory integration are valued.

Qualifications

• Illinois OT license required.
• Experience in school-based OT.
• Knowledge of autism, developmental disabilities and sensory integration.

Responsibilities

• Complete evaluations for students referred for OT services.
• Create and implement OT goals and service plans aligned to each student’s IEP.
• Deliver direct and consultative OT services in school settings.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and families to support progress.
• Document services, track progress and finalize required therapy reports.

Skills

OT in schools

Autism knowledge

Assistive tech

Independent work

Fine motor skills

Sensory processing

Education

Illinois OT license

Job description

Onward Education

Onward Education is a specialized education staffing and talent solutions company that helps educators, therapists, and school health professionals find top jobs with the nation's leading schools. Join our client for the 2026–2027 school year as an Occupational Therapist supporting students across Elementary and Middle Schools in Cook County, IL. This school-based opportunity is focused on helping students access learning through occupational therapy services throughout the academic year.

• Start Date: ASAP
• End Date: 5/28/2027
• Location: On-site, Cook County, IL
• School Year: 26/27
• Caseload: Elementary and Middle School

Responsibilities:

• Complete occupational therapy evaluations for students referred for services.
• Create and carry out OT goals and service plans aligned to each student’s IEP.
• Deliver direct and consultative occupational therapy services in school settings.
• Partner with multidisciplinary team members and families to support student progress.
• Document services, track progress, and finalize required therapy reports.

Qualifications:

• Illinois Occupational Therapist license.
• School-based occupational therapy experience.
• Knowledge of autism, developmental disabilities, and sensory integration approaches.
• Experience supporting classroom access through assistive technology and accommodations.
• Ability to work independently across multiple school buildings.
• Ability to support student needs related to fine motor, sensory processing, visual-motor, self-help, and functional school skills.

What We Offer:

• Competitive pay 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?

If you're passionate about creating positive change and supporting students' success, this is the opportunity for you! Work alongside a dedicated team of educators and support staff, helping students reach their full potential.