Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) - TWO Openings

Eastern Upper Peninsula Intermediate School District; Sault Ste. Marie (MI); On-site; USD 46,301 - 49,593; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full family medical insurance

Life, LTD, dental, and vision insurance

Tuition reimbursement program

Job summary

Eastern Upper Peninsula Intermediate School District seeks an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) to provide individualized therapy for students. This role requires valid OTA certification and Michigan licensure. Responsibilities include collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, maintaining documentation, and promoting student achievement.

The position offers competitive pay ranging from $33.61 to $36.00 per hour, with comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and retirement options. Join us in shaping the lives of students with special needs!

Qualifications

• Possess valid certification from an accredited program as an occupational therapy assistant.
• Previous school experience with special needs students preferred.
• Ability to carry and move heavy objects and lift 50 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Function as a member of the Multi-disciplinary Evaluation Team.
• Provide direct occupational therapy as requested.
• Maintain thorough and accurate documentation.

Skills

Strong organizational and time-management skills

Written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills

Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Education

Valid certification as an occupational therapy assistant

Michigan LARA licensure for OTA

Job description

Purpose of Position

The role of the OTA is to provide quality individualized occupational therapy to assigned students under the direction of the licensed occupational therapist (OT). The OTA and OT will work cooperatively and effectively with teachers, parents, students, IEP team members, and other school personnel to assist in implementing the student's individualized education program.

Period of Employment

190 days per year, school‑year contract.

Minimum Qualifications

• Possess valid certification from an accredited program as an occupational therapy assistant.
• Previous school experience with special needs students preferred.
• Adheres to FERPA and district confidentiality policies.
• Possess and maintain Michigan LARA licensure for OTA.
• Strong organizational and time‑management skills, written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills, diligent work habits, and the ability to apply common sense to routine decision‑making.
• Ability to maintain self‑control and complete tasks with frequent interruptions.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast‑paced environment.
• Must have regular and reliable attendance.
• Ability to carry and move heavy objects and lift 50 lbs, frequent walking, standing, sitting, going up/downstairs.
• Possess a valid driver’s license.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Function as a member of the Multi‑disciplinary Evaluation Team (MET) in assessing the specific needs of students referred and participate in IEP meetings as requested.
• Provide direct occupational therapy as requested by the OT.
• Assist in the development of therapy schedules and treatment plans along with the OT.
• Implement appropriate assistive technology plans as requested.
• Complete all reports in a timely manner.
• Provide input regarding student needs and strengths to the IEP team.
• Assist with development of student goals and objectives based upon relevant data.
• Maintain adequate records and assessment data for each student served.
• Demonstrate current knowledge of interventions and supports.
• Work closely with, and be a resource for, students, parents, teachers and administrators to facilitate student growth and achievement.
• Attend meetings as assigned; daily travel.
• Understand and embrace the inclusion of disabled students in general education.
• Able to work independently and as part of a team.
• Able to develop and maintain successful working relationships with students and school staff.
• Able to explain and demonstrate appropriate intervention techniques to reach all learners.
• Occasional home visits to provide services and/or obtain information to assist with evaluations.
• Be student centered and advocate for students.
• Maintain thorough and accurate documentation.
• Consult and collaborate with classroom staff and IEP teams to enhance student achievement.
• Remain free of substance abuse and/or illegal drug use at all times.
• Other duties as assigned by the Director of Special Education.

Wages and Fringes

$33.61–$36.00/hr, dependent on education, experience, and certification.

Benefits for Full‑Time Employees

• Up to full family medical insurance with an employer contribution up to $21,660, or $370 per month cash in lieu of medical insurance.
• No cost to employee: life, LTD, dental, and vision insurance.
• State retirement system through the State of Michigan Office of Retirement Services – defined benefit or defined contribution options.
• Advanced degree and tuition reimbursement program.
• Longevity pay based on years of district service.
• Accrued sick and personal time, with additional time off during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and spring break.