School-Based Occupational Therapist (OT)

Onward Edu; Illinois; On-site; USD 84,000 - 88,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Medical, dental, vision benefits

401(k) options

Education support

Mission-driven team

Job summary

Onward Education is partnering with a school district in McDonough County, Illinois to hire a School-Based Occupational Therapist (OT) for the 2026/2027 school year. The OT will evaluate student needs, develop measurable goals, deliver direct and consultative services, and collaborate with educators and families to help students thrive academically and socially.

The role is on-site at a school setting, approximately 32.5 hours per week, with pay of $50–$52 per hour for the 2026-2027 school year.

Qualifications

• Active Illinois OT license required.
• Experience in school-based OT and IEP/504 collaboration preferred.
• Knowledge of sensory processing, functional skill development, and classroom-based interventions.
• Strong documentation, organization, and time-management skills.
• Collaborative, student-first approach with strong communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide OT services to students aligned with IEP/504 goals and service minutes.
• Conduct assessments and write evaluation reports with school-based recommendations.
• Support fine motor skills and functional classroom performance.
• Address sensory processing and self-regulation needs; implement practical strategies for the school day.
• Recommend and train students/staff on adaptive tools and assistive technology supports.
• Collaborate with special education teams, teachers, and families; document progress and communicate updates.

Skills

Communication skills

Time management

IEP/504 collaboration

Job description

Onward Education is partnering with a school district in McDonough County, Illinois to hire a School-Based Occupational Therapist (OT) for the 2026/2027 school year. This role supports students' access to learning and participation in school routines through OT services aligned to IEPs and 504 Plans, including fine motor development, sensory regulation, classroom tool adaptations, and functional skill-building.

Job Summary

The Occupational Therapist will evaluate student needs, develop measurable goals, deliver direct and consultative services, and collaborate closely with educators and families to help students thrive academically and socially.

Position Details

• Work Setting: On-site
• Hours: ~32.5 hours/week
• School Year: 2026 - 2027
• Pay: $50 - $52/hour

Responsibilities

• Provide OT services to students in accordance with IEP/504 goals and service minutes.
• Conduct assessments and write evaluation reports with clear, school-based recommendations.
• Support fine motor skills (handwriting, cutting, tool use) and functional classroom performance.
• Address sensory processing and self-regulation needs; implement practical strategies for the school day.
• Recommend and train students/staff on adaptive tools and assistive technology supports.
• Collaborate with special education teams, teachers, and families; document progress and communicate updates.

Qualifications

• Active Illinois Occupational Therapist (OT) license (required).
• Experience in school-based OT and IEP/504 collaboration preferred.
• Knowledge of sensory processing, functional skill development, and classroom-based interventions.
• Strong documentation, organization, and time-management skills.
• Collaborative, student-first approach with strong communication skills.

What We Offer

• Competitive pay (based on experience and district specifics)
• Medical, dental, and vision benefits (where applicable)
• 401(k) options (where applicable)
• Dedicated Onward Search Education support throughout the assignment
• A mission-driven team focused on improving student outcomes

Why Apply?

You'll be part of a team making a direct impact on students' day-to-day school success--helping remove barriers to learning, build independence, and support meaningful participation in the classroom and beyond.