Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA)

Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA)

Real Journey Academies - Ontario, CA 91764

Overview

Salary Range $30.00 - $35.00 Hourly Position Type Full Time

Description

REAL Journey Academies (RJA) is a non-profit charter school. Our vision is that RJA schools will transform our communities by raising expectations for achievement, offering a high level of opportunity, and educating the next generation of leaders.

Job Purpose:

Under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist (OT), the Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) implements occupational therapy treatment plans for students with disabilities. The COTA supports fine motor, sensory processing, visual-motor, self-help, functional, and school participation skills to help students access the educational environment. Services are provided in accordance with student IEPs and applicable special education requirements.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Implement treatment plans developed by the supervising Occupational Therapist and provide individual or small-group services as specified in student IEPs.
• Support fine and gross motor, sensory processing, visual-motor, handwriting, self-care, and functional life skills.
• Assist students with classroom access through adaptive equipment, assistive technology, and environmental modifications under OT supervision.
• Document services and student progress toward IEP goals; maintain accurate service logs and report performance data to the supervising OT.
• Prepare therapy materials, maintain equipment, and assist with classroom observations and implementation of OT strategies.
• Collaborate with teachers, administrators, related service providers, and families; participate in IEP meetings as requested by the supervising OT.
• Maintain confidentiality, follow applicable special education requirements, and attend required meetings, training, and professional development.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Desired Skills and Traits:

• Knowledge of pediatric occupational therapy, sensory integration, handwriting, fine motor development, visual perception, and adaptive equipment.
• Understanding of IDEA, Section 504, California special education requirements, and inclusive educational practices.
• Ability to implement OT treatment plans, maintain accurate electronic documentation, and communicate effectively with students, families, and school personnel.
• Strong organizational, time-management, and collaborative skills; familiarity with UDL and MTSS preferred.

Education and/or Experience:

• Associate degree from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program.
• Two years of COTA experience in a school, pediatric, rehabilitation, or healthcare setting preferred.
• Experience supporting students with a range of disabilities is highly desirable.

Required Licenses and/or Certificates:

• Current Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) certification and current California Occupational Therapy Assistant license, as applicable.
• Valid California driver's license and reliable transportation.
• DOJ/FBI fingerprint clearance, tuberculosis clearance, and other required pre-employment clearances.
• CPR and First Aid certification preferred.

Language and Computer Skills:

Communicate clearly with students, families and educational teams; read and apply IEPs and relevant procedures; maintain accurate service logs, progress records and electronic documentation.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions:

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, reaching and sitting on the floor; ability to demonstrate therapy activities and use adaptive equipment.
• Ability to lift, transfer, position and assist students weighing up to 50 pounds, with assistance when necessary.
• Work in classrooms, therapy rooms, playgrounds, and community-based settings; occasional exposure to communicable illness and outdoor conditions.
• May travel between school sites and must respond promptly in emergencies.