Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA)

Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant II (COTA)

Job Class Description: Occupational Therapist - Class Code: 7291 (291D & 291E)

Position Type: FULL-TIME - FLSA Classification: NON-EXEMPT

Reports To: Director of Special Education, Supervising Occupational Therapist - Location: District-Wide

Compensation: Commensurate with DCPS salary schedule for class code 7291, (291D and 291E) Hours Per Day: 7.5 Contracted Days: 191/186 Based on assignment

Qualifications

Required: Valid Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) license issued by the State of Kentucky to practice occupational therapy

Preferred: Have experience working with children/adolescents ages 3-21 in a school environment. Knowledge Of: Principles and techniques of occupational therapy. Laws and regulations concerning special education, medical records and therapeutic services. Neurology, anatomy, physiology- including fine motor, sensory, perceptual, and manipulation skill development. Occupational therapy evaluation instruments. Methods, materials and equipment used to alter existing or fabricate specialized equipment. Oral and written communication skills. Basic computer skills including use of mouse and keyboard to navigate computer, e-mail, and websites. Record-keeping techniques.

Job Description

Job Summary: Job Duties (under the supervision of an Occupational Therapist): Develop, implement and evaluate programs and procedures for occupational therapy and assessment; develop and review Individual Education Plan therapy goals, make recommendations and adjust as appropriate; and interpret program to parents and school personnel. Maintain records and prepare reports concerning individual students; review medical and therapy reports to assure compliance with established laws, regulations and procedures. Communicate with teachers, parents, schools and other organizations to coordinate services; contact vendors concerning supplies and equipment for therapy needs; coordinate occupational therapy referrals. Operate a variety of therapeutic equipment and Assistive technology devices; train others in the use of such equipment as necessary; maintain equipment in proper working condition. Remain current concerning technological advances and other matters concerning occupational therapy (including assistive technology); attend and participate in seminars, workshops and conferences; provide in-service training to teachers, instructional assistants and parents. Operate computer and other office equipment. Perform related duties as assigned by the Director of Special Services.

Essential Functions, Duties and Responsibilities: Under the supervision of an Occupational Therapist, the COTA will: Provide school-based occupational therapy to eligible students. Determine and evaluate therapy. Interpret therapy assessment, goals and program to parents and school personnel. Plan, prepare and make oral presentations- including training workshops and participation in ARC meetings. Communicate effectively with families of students with disabilities. Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others. Maintain records and prepare reports. Monitor and evaluate equipment needs. Prepare written evaluations and review medical and therapy reports. Read, interpret, apply and explain rules, regulations, policies and procedures. Maintain current knowledge of related technological advances and methodologies. Operate office and therapeutic equipment. Prioritize and schedule work- prepare written schedule for therapy, evaluations and consultations; meet schedules and time lines. Observe health and safety regulations. Meet schedules and timelines. Ability to lift heavy equipment.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Location, duties, responsibilities may be altered to meet the needs of the district. Successful completion of post-offer, pre-employment screenings are required as a contingency of employment. Contracts are with the district of Daviess County Public Schools-not with individual locations. Location assignments are subject to change.

Date of Last Revision: 3.4.19