School-Based Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)

Software Placement Group, SPG; Tuscaloosa (AL); On-site; USD 52,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

The School-Based COTA role at SPG in Tuscaloosa, AL works under the supervision of an Licensed Occupational Therapist (OTR) to support students' fine motor, sensory, and self-care skills within the classroom.

You'll implement targeted interventions aligned with IEPs and 504 plans, collaborate with teachers and therapists, document progress, and assist with adaptive equipment and seating as needed to help students thrive in school.

Qualifications

• Graduate of an accredited OTA program.
• Active (or eligible for) COTA license from the Alabama State Board of Occupational Therapy.
• Current NBCOT certification.
• Current CPR/BLS certification.
• Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and creative problem-solving ability.
• Familiarity with pediatric developmental milestones.

Responsibilities

• Implement targeted occupational therapy interventions to support students' IEPs and 504 plans.
• Focus on functional skill-building, including handwriting, tool use, sensory regulation strategies, executive functioning, and mobility within school spaces.
• Collaborate with teachers, speech-language pathologists, and school staff to implement sensory diets, seating modifications, and classroom accommodations.
• Document student progress toward IEP goals, log service delivery times, and contribute data for annual IEP reviews under OTR guidance.
• Assist with adaptive equipment, specialized seating, and assistive technology devices within the school setting.
• Maintain open communication with parents and caregivers to reinforce therapy strategies at home.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Patience

Creative problem-solving

Pediatric development knowledge

Education

Accredited OTA program

Alabama COTA license

NBCOT certification

CPR/BLS certification

Job description

Location: Tuscaloosa, AL | Schedule: Full-time, on-site

Overview

A school system in Tuscaloosa is seeking a dedicated School-Based Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to join its student services team. Working under the supervision of a Licensed Occupational Therapist (OTR), this role supports students in building the fine motor, sensory, visual-motor, and self-care skills needed to participate fully in the classroom and thrive in their educational environment.

What you'll do

• Implement targeted occupational therapy interventions to support students' Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 504 plans
• Focus on functional skill-building, including handwriting, tool use (scissors, art supplies), sensory regulation strategies, executive functioning, and mobility within school spaces
• Collaborate with general and special education teachers, speech-language pathologists, and school staff to implement sensory diets, seating modifications, and classroom accommodations
• Document student progress toward specific IEP goals, log service delivery times, and contribute data for annual IEP reviews under OTR guidance
• Assist with adaptive equipment, specialized seating, and assistive technology devices within the school setting
• Maintain open communication with parents and caregivers to reinforce therapy strategies at home

Required qualifications

• Graduate of an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program
• Active (or eligibility for) COTA license from the Alabama State Board of Occupational Therapy
• Current NBCOT certification
• Current CPR/BLS certification
• Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and creative problem-solving ability
• Familiarity with pediatric developmental milestones

Preferred qualifications

• Prior experience working with pediatric populations or in a school setting is highly preferred

Why this role

This is an opportunity to join a school community in Tuscaloosa and make a direct, positive impact on students' educational journeys.