Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA)

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)

At the McCarton Foundation, every day is a chance to change a child's future. We're looking for a compassionate and dedicated Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to support children with developmental disabilities in building essential skills. In this role, you'll collaborate with a team of Speech-Language Pathologists, ABA Therapists, and other specialists, all working together in a supportive, interdisciplinary environment.

What You'll Do

• Provide direct care treatment to children ages 0–3 under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist, across center-based, home, or tele-therapy settings.
• Support individualized treatment programs to help children build motor, sensory, and developmental skills.
• Document services through digital platforms (daily logs, progress reports, IFSP notes).
• Communicate with families and caregivers regarding treatment plans and progress.
• Collaborate with an interdisciplinary team (OT, Speech, ABA, PT) to create integrated, child-centered programming.
• Guide paraprofessionals in implementing therapeutic activities, modeling best practices, and ensuring quality of care.
• Participate in family meetings, staff training, and clinical supervision.
• Maintain credentials through ongoing professional development.

What We're Looking For

• License: NYS COTA Licensure required.
• Education: At minimum an associate's degree in occupational therapy assistant from an accredited institution.
• Experience: Minimum 2 years of combined experience working with children, which may include:
• Direct experience in pediatric occupational therapy OR
• Related experience in early childhood education, special education, speech/physical therapy, or other child development disciplines.
• Reduced years of work experience may be considered for candidates who hold a bachelor's degree in occupational therapy.
• At least some hands-on experience (internships, clinical placements, or work experience) with children with developmental disabilities and/or autism.
• Prior experience collaborating with paraprofessionals, assistants, or classroom aides is strongly preferred.
• Knowledge: OT principles and evidence-based pediatric practices; early Intervention regulations and child health and safety procedures, including CPR, first aid, and emergency response protocols.
• Skills: Strong interpersonal communication skills with children, families, and interdisciplinary teams; Ability to clearly explain treatment plans, model activities for paraprofessionals, and provide guidance in a supportive manner; Flexibility and adaptability in dynamic environments. Ability to efficiently enter and manage information in electronic health records and other digital platforms.
• Languages: Fluency in English is essential. Working knowledge of Spanish is an asset.

Conditions & Benefits

Schedule: 7:30 am - 4:00 pm, Monday - Friday.

Benefits:

• Paid holidays, PTO, and sick leave.
• 401(k) program.
• Health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• Availability of clinical resources for professional growth.
• Valuable mentorship and hands-on supervision from experienced and qualified staff.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• This position may be eligible for employment visa sponsorship.

Physical Requirements: Ability to lift/carry children (30–40 lbs) and support physical activities. Ability to walk, stand, or sit for up to 8 hours.

About Us

The McCarton Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing exceptional treatment and services to children with autism and other developmental disabilities. We believe in the potential of every child with developmental disabilities and strive to help them reach their full potential. Our McCarton Integrated Model combines speech and language therapy, fine and gross motor therapy, sensory integration therapy, socialization with peers, developmental play skills, and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy.

As with all positions at the McCarton Bronx Center all employees are required to pass a health and background check as mandated by the Bureaus of Child Care and Early Intervention. This includes a health form documenting vaccinations and background checks through the Department of Investigation and the Central Clearance Unit.

Equal Employment Opportunity

McCarton provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants, prohibiting discrimination and harassment based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Apply Now

Ready to make a difference? Apply today to join our team and help children reach their fullest potential. Not sure if you meet every requirement? Don't let impostor syndrome hold you back! We encourage you to apply anyway. Research shows that candidates from underrepresented backgrounds, including persons with disabilities, may hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. At McCarton, we're looking for passionate, dedicated professionals who are eager to learn and grow and we'd love to hear from you.