Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant: COTA

Job Description

Job Description

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant : COTA

Status: PER DIEM

Start Date: 11/1/2026

General:

The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistance (C.O.T.A) provides occupational therapy services to patients, under the direct supervision of the Registered Occupational Therapist (O.T.R.) He/she carries out the treatment plan developed by the Occupational Therapist, assists the Occupational Therapist in patient treatments and carries out departmental duties as assigned. The Occupational Therapy Assistance shall be supervised by the O.T.R., according to Federal and state guidelines.

Qualifications:

1. Graduation from an approved program for Occupational Therapist Assistance training
2. Valid, current Occupational Therapy Assistant certification in the state(s) where services are rendered.

Physical, Mental, and Sensory Requirements: Must possess the ability to effectively communicate with therapy staff, patients and others as needed, as well as the ability to effectively respond to the environment within the long term care setting. Ability to lift/walk patients, provide active therapy and stand or sit for long periods of time, all day, if necessary. Ability to read, speak, and understand English. Must be able to safely assist a patient in transfers, bed mobility, ADL’s, and ambulation.

Essential Job Functions:

The following are essential job duties that must e safely with or without reasonable accommodations without posting a direct threat to other employees, patients/residents or self.

The C.O.T.A. shall not evaluate patients or initiate any changes in a patient’s program unless specifically directed to do so after consultation with the O.T.R.

The C.O.T.A shall:

1. Provide patient treatment as specified by the O.T.R. in the treatment plan.
2. Assist the O.T.R in the provisions of direct patient treatments.
3. Maintain records pertinent to patient treatment, including daily progress/status reports.
4. Communicate with physicians, families, and rehab team staff members regarding patient status reports as appropriate.
5. Assist the O.T.R in the scheduling of patients.
6. Participate in patient care conference, rehabilitation team conferences and represent the Occupational Therapy Department at facility meetings as assigned by the O.T.R.
7. May assist the Physical Therapy Aide with the transport of patients to and from therapy. Assist with the preparation of patients for treatment i.e. applying splints or slings
8. May be involved in the Restorative Programs assigned by the O.T.R.
9. At the direction of the O.T.R, may lead a therapeutic exercise group for patients
10. May assist the physical therapy Aide with housekeeping duties as assigned
11. Perform clerical duties as assigned
12. Perform other related duties as assigned by the O.T.R.

Requirements:

• Current Certification as a Certified Occupational Therapist
• Previous Experience in a long-Term Care facility Preferred
• Ability to speak read, write, speak and understand the English language.
• Compliance with applicable health laws and regulations, including but not limited to those relating to COVID-19 and influenza vaccinations.
• Must be able to move intermittently throughout the work day.
• Must be able to cope with the mental and emotional stress of the position
• Must possess sight/hearing senses or use prosthesis that will enable these senses to function adequately so that the requirements of this position can be fully met.
• Must be in good general health and demonstrate emotional stability.
• Must be able to lift and move residents, equipment, supplies, etc. in excess of fifty (50) pounds