School Based Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA)

Pediatric Developmental Services; Kearney (MO); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental & vision insurance

Retirement account with company match

Unlimited CEUs

Annual materials stipend

Licensure/certification reimbursement

Job summary

Pediatric Developmental Services (PDS) is hiring a full-time School-Based Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to support students in a K–12 setting. You will work under an OTR/L to enable participation in school activities and daily routines.

This position offers a predictable school-year schedule with summers off, professional development, and support from an interdisciplinary team. Licensure, NBCOT certification, and pediatric experience are preferred.

Qualifications

• Current state COTA license or eligibility; PDS will assist if needed.
• NBCOT certification as a COTA.
• Associate degree in OTA from an accredited program.

Responsibilities

• Deliver high-quality, individualized OT services under supervision to enable participation in school activities.
• Assist with evaluations, progress monitoring, and reporting; support IEP goals.
• Collaborate with teachers, therapists, families and school teams to integrate OT strategies.
• Support staff with adaptations to environment, curriculum and tasks to reduce barriers.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication

Collaboration

Education

COTA license

NBCOT certification

Associate degree in Occupational Therapy Assistant

Job description

Full-Time School-Based Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)

Pediatric Developmental Services (PDS) is seeking a dedicated and qualified Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) for a full-time school-based role.

If you're passionate about helping children succeed in their academic and everyday routines and you're looking for meaningful, impactful work that supports a strong work-life balance this opportunity is for you.

Why Choose a School-Based Role with PDS?

As a school-based COTA with PDS, you'll work directly within a K–12 educational setting, supporting students' participation and functional skills across the school day, under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist (OTR/L). You'll also benefit from:

• A predictable weekday schedule that aligns with school hours
• Summers off and built-in holidays
• The ability to build lasting relationships with students, teachers, and school teams
• Collaborative, interdisciplinary support through IEP teams and district resources
• Optional - Compensation spread over 12 months, ensuring consistent pay throughout the year, even during school breaks
• Professional Development & Career Growth opportunities to mentor, join leadership teams, or specialize in areas like bilingual services, AAC, or early childhood
• Built-In Support for New and Experienced Clinicians - Access to mentorship, ongoing CEUs, and experienced colleagues
• Schools are ideal for New Grads or seasoned COTAs looking for a stable, enriching environment

What We Offer:

• Health, Dental & Vision Insurance with company contribution
• Retirement Account with Company Matching
• Unlimited CEUs
• Annual Materials Stipend
• Licensure/Certification Reimbursement
• Supportive internal team of SLPs, OTs, PTs, and school-based professionals

Qualifications:

• Associate degree in Occupational Therapy Assistant studies from an accredited program.
• Current state Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) license/certification (or eligibility for licensure; PDS will assist if needed).
• NBCOT certification as a COTA.
• Previous experience in a pediatric, school, or related setting preferred (but new grads are welcome).
• Strong interpersonal, communication and collaborative skills.
• Commitment to student-centered practice, teamwork and professional growth.

Your Impact:

As a PDS school-based COTA, you will:

• Deliver high-quality, individualized occupational therapy services, under the supervision of a licensed OTR/L, that enable students to fully participate in school activities and students' occupations including academic, play/leisure, self-care, transition/work skills, and social participation.
• Assist with evaluations, contribute to progress monitoring and reporting, and support implementation of IEP goals/short-term objectives for students with accommodations, supports or services, in collaboration with the supervising OTR/L.
• Collaborate with teachers, administrators, therapists, families and school teams to integrate OT strategies into natural school routines.
• Support classroom staff with adaptations/modifications of environment, curriculum and tasks to reduce barriers to student participation and functional performance.
• Participate in IEP meetings, progress monitoring, and support positive school culture and student success.

Ready to Join Us?

If you're a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant who is passionate about supporting students where they learn and grow every day and you're excited about the possibilities of a school-based role with PDS, this is the perfect opportunity.