Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) – School-Based
Phoenix, AZ | Full-Time | Onsite
Position Overview
We are seeking a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to provide occupational therapy services to developmentally disabled and dual-diagnosed students within a school-based environment. This role works collaboratively with teachers, therapists, and multidisciplinary team members to support student development, independence, and functional participation across educational settings.
The COTA will assist in evaluation, intervention, and implementation of treatment plans that address sensory processing, fine motor skills, adaptive functioning, and related areas impacting student performance in school and the community.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Provide occupational therapy services under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist
- Assist in evaluating students upon entrance to the school and contribute to treatment planning
- Deliver individual and group therapy programs to remediate sensory-motor, functional, and related disorders
- Provide consultative support to teachers, school districts, parents, and staff regarding sensory, perceptual, and fine motor needs
- Support the use of adaptive equipment and strategies, including feeding and augmentative communication supports when applicable
- Participate in multidisciplinary team discussions related to diagnosis and treatment planning
- Assist students in responding constructively to intervention and support transitions within educational settings
- Prepare progress reports and documentation as required
- Assist with the development and updating of students’ Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in compliance with regulations
- Attend staff meetings, therapy department meetings, and professional development sessions
- Support in-service training for staff related to sensory, perceptual, and fine motor development
- Maintain accurate records and comply with program policies and procedures
- Maintain regular and reliable attendance
- Perform related duties, special assignments, and projects as assigned
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Ability to communicate effectively with students, families, educators, and multidisciplinary teams
- Ability to read, analyze, write, and complete educational and clinical documentation
- Strong problem-solving and clinical reasoning skills
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team-based, school setting
Physical Requirements
- Frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and hands-on student support
- Ability to lift up to 10 pounds regularly, up to 25 pounds frequently, and up to 40 pounds occasionally
- At times, may assist with lifting or moving a student’s body weight with support
- Vision and hearing abilities sufficient to support safe and effective interaction in a school environment
- School-based setting with moderate to loud noise levels
- May work with students who exhibit challenging or physically aggressive behaviors
- Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions
Minimum Qualifications
- Associate degree from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) program
- Eligibility for NBCOT (AOTCB) certification
- Eligible for or holding an Arizona State COTA license
- Ability to pass fingerprint clearance and background requirements
Job Type
If you are a COTA who is passionate about student-centered therapy and collaborative school-based care, we encourage you to apply and learn more about this opportunity.