Per Diem Occupational Therapist: Personal Care Attendant Program

AgeSpan; Lawrence (MA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 83,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid sick time

prorated holidays

403(b) retirement plan

Job summary

AgeSpan in Massachusetts is seeking an Occupational Therapist to join its PCA program team. The OT conducts in-home assessments, collaborates with nurses and caregivers, and helps plan services to support independence for elders and adults with disabilities.

This role emphasizes client-centered care, documentation compliance, ongoing professional development, and participation in new program initiatives. A valid MA license and NBCOT certification are required, with 1-3 years of relevant

Qualifications

• MA license in good standing and NBCOT certification in good standing.
• Master's Degree in Occupational Therapy.
• 1–3 years of community-based experience preferred.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• Experience with community screenings preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct on-site home assessments focusing on ADLs and IADLs.
• Apply clinical judgment to identify strengths, risks, and support needs while complying with MassHealth regulations.
• Maintain timely, accurate documentation in line with agency policies.
• Collaborate with RNs, LPNs, clients, and caregivers to support person-centered care planning.
• Participate in training and licensure maintenance to ensure ongoing strong performance.
• Assist with piloting and evaluating new PCA program initiatives.

Skills

English reading/writing

Communication skills

Community resources knowledge

Diversity experience

Elders/disabled experience helpful

Education

Master's Degree in Occupational Therapy

Job description

AgeSpan

About Us:

Since 1974 our agency has strived towards supporting an individual's desire to make their own decisions, secure their independence and remain living independently in the community. We are proud of our employees who make this possible every day. Our agency is a thought-leader, a nationally known generator of new ideas, because it welcomes creativity, your ideas. It is an outstanding place to work stimulating, friendly, collaborative. We offer competitive salaries, generous vacation time, and an excellent work/life balance. We value diversity and encourage career growth. If you have a passion for improving the lives of the elderly community and enjoy working in a diverse team driven by its mission, you've found the right place!

At AgeSpan, you'll find a work environment that combines:

• A refreshing culture that is supportive, collaborative, and encouraging of diverse perspectives and backgrounds.
• A focus on innovation with a team recognized for developing and implementing innovative programs and novel solutions.
• Encouragement of your development through opportunities to get involved, use your voice, and gain new knowledge and skills.
• A satisfying balance between your work and personal life, including a flexible workplace, generous paid time off, and wellness programs.

Position Responsibility:

The Occupational Therapist (OT) is responsible for participating as a member of an interdisciplinary team that includes Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in the assessment, evaluation, and service planning process for elders and adults with disabilities residing in the community who are seeking approval for participation in the Personal Care Attendant (PCA) Program. The OT conducts comprehensive initial in-home functional assessments to determine medical eligibility and develops service plans in accordance with program requirements.

Per Diem components of the Position:

• Can be assigned work within the agency's catchment area
• Coordinates weekly work assignments and any changes in schedule with position supervisor
• Eligible for MA Paid Sick Time, prorated holidays, and enrollment in the agency 403(b) retirement plan. Ineligible for paid vacation time, group health insurance, and certain other employee benefits. Details regarding benefits eligibility are provided in the AgeSpan Employee Handbook.

Essential Functions:

• Conduct on-site assessments in the consumer's home focusing on individual's functional abilities, limitations, and need for assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs)
• Utilize clinical judgment to identify strengths, risks, and support needs while ensuring that assessments are accurate, thorough, and compliant with MassHealth regulations and agency standards.
• Maintain timely and accurate documentation ensuring compliance with all applicable program and agency regulations and policies.
• Act in accordance with professional standards of practice, MassHealth guidelines, and agency protocols while promoting consumer independence, safety, and quality of life within the community setting.
• Collaborate with team members, consumers, caregivers, healthcare providers, and community resources to support person-centered care planning.
• Participate in training and development activities to increase knowledge/skills for continuous strong performances in this position, as well as maintain required licensure.
• Perform additional tasks as directed by the Nurse Manager or PCA Program Manager, including piloting, implementing, and evaluating new programs as they are developed.

Qualifications:

• Currently licensed by the Massachusetts Division of Registration in Allied Health Professions and in good standing with the Division of Registration and currently certified by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, in good standing.
• Master's Degree in Occupational Therapy
• Relevant experience over 1 year up to and including 3 years preferred
• Prior experience with community screenings preferred
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation

Core Competencies:

• Must be able to read and write English
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
• Knowledge of community resources
• Ability to work with persons with diverse backgrounds, skills and abilities
• Experience working with elders and or disabled individuals is helpful
• Familiarity with and ability to locate area streets and medical facilities
• Excellent problem-solving skills