School-Based Occupational Therapist (OT)

Onward Edu; Highland Park (IL); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay and benefits

Wide network of schools and districts

Streamlined hiring process

Ongoing communication and advocacy

Personalized recruiting support

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Onward Education is partnering with a Lake County, IL school district to hire a dedicated School-Based Occupational Therapist for the 2026-2027 school year. The role is onsite with a full-time, 37.5-hour schedule, serving elementary students (K-5) and supporting cognitive and SEL needs.

Responsibilities include evaluations, treatment planning, progress monitoring, and collaboration with educators, families, and related service providers to meet IEP goals.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program.
• Active Illinois Occupational Therapist license issued by IDFPR.
• Current NBCOT certification.
• School-based or pediatric occupational therapy experience preferred.
• Knowledge of IDEA, IEP development, and special education service delivery.
• Strong assessment, communication, documentation, and collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide occupational therapy services aligned with students' IEP goals and educational needs.
• Conduct evaluations, reevaluations, and assessments to identify functional and educationally relevant needs.
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans that support student participation and success within the school setting.
• Support students in areas including fine motor skills, sensory processing, self-regulation, visual motor integration, and adaptive functioning.
• Collaborate with teachers, families, special education staff, and related service providers to support student growth and achievement.
• Recommend and implement adaptive equipment, environmental modifications, and classroom strategies as appropriate.
• Monitor student progress and adjust interventions to support achievement of IEP goals.
• Participate in IEP meetings and multidisciplinary team discussions.
• Maintain accurate documentation and ensure compliance with district, state, and federal requirements.

Skills

Assessment

Communication

Documentation

Collaboration

Education

Master's degree in Occupational Therapy

NBCOT certification

Illinois OT license (IDFPR)

Job description

Onward Education is a specialized education staffing and talent solutions company that helps educators, therapists, and school health professionals find top jobs with the nation's leading schools. We're partnering with a school district in Lake County, Illinois to hire a dedicated School-Based Occupational Therapist (OT) for the 2026-2027 school year.

Position Details:

• Location: Onsite in Lake County, IL
• Schedule: Full-Time, Monday-Friday
• Weekly Hours: 37.5 hours per week
• School Year: 2026-2027
• Student Population: Elementary (K-5)
• Caseload: Approximately 6 students with cognitive and social-emotional learning (SEL) support needs

Responsibilities:

• Provide occupational therapy services aligned with students' IEP goals and educational needs.
• Conduct evaluations, reevaluations, and assessments to identify functional and educationally relevant needs.
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans that support student participation and success within the school setting.
• Support students in areas including fine motor skills, sensory processing, self-regulation, visual motor integration, and adaptive functioning.
• Collaborate with teachers, families, special education staff, and related service providers to support student growth and achievement.
• Recommend and implement adaptive equipment, environmental modifications, and classroom strategies as appropriate.
• Monitor student progress and adjust interventions to support achievement of IEP goals.
• Participate in IEP meetings and multidisciplinary team discussions.
• Maintain accurate documentation and ensure compliance with district, state, and federal requirements.

Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program
• Active Illinois Occupational Therapist license issued by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR)
• Current NBCOT certification
• School-based or pediatric occupational therapy experience preferred
• Knowledge of IDEA, IEP development, and special education service delivery
• Strong assessment, communication, documentation, and collaboration skills

What We Offer:

• Competitive pay and benefits package.
• Access to a wide network of schools and districts for diverse placement options.
• Streamlined hiring process to get you started quickly.
• Ongoing communication and advocacy throughout your placement.
• Personalized support from dedicated recruiting professionals.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.

Why Apply?

If you're passionate about helping students succeed and thrive in the school environment, this is the opportunity for you! Join a collaborative team committed to supporting student access, independence, and meaningful participation throughout the school day.