Occupational Therapist

Occupational Therapist

The job of Occupational Therapist is done for the purpose of assessing students' functional physical development level; planning and implementing appropriate treatment to meet individual student objectives; identifying architectural barriers; providing recommendations for accessibility, program development and student placement; and providing direction to Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants.

This job reports to Exceptional Student Services Director.

Administers occupational therapy procedures and modalities for the purpose of achieving program objectives.

Assesses students' fine and gross motor skills and functional abilities for the purpose of determining program eligibility and developing recommendations for treatment, appropriate assistive devices and/or school placement.

Collaborates with a variety of groups and/or individuals for the purpose of communicating information, resolving issues and providing services in compliance with established guidelines.

Consults with teachers, parents, other personnel and/or outside professionals for the purpose of providing requested information, developing plans for services, making recommendations and/or coordinating occupational therapy services with those of other disciplines.

Develops treatment plans, interventions and/or educational materials for the purpose of remediating students' motor skill deficits and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

Directs the work of assigned COTAs for the purpose of providing guidance and ensuring that program objectives are achieved.

Identifies structural issues for the purpose of removing barriers for students with physical limitations and/or identifying appropriate assistive technology.

Instructs students and staff for the purpose of providing information on medical/behavioral attributes, use of assistive devices and/or implementing plans for remediation of functional limitations.

Interprets medical reports for the purpose of providing information and/or ensuring that treatment/intervention plans are appropriate.

Maintains files and/or records for the purpose of ensuring the availability of information as required for reference and/or compliance.

Participates in meetings, workshops, and seminars for the purpose of conveying and/or gathering information.

Performs site visits at multiple work sites including home visits for the purpose of providing direct therapy interventions and assistance as required.

Prepares a wide variety of written materials for the purpose of documenting activities, providing written reference, and/or conveying information.

Provides direct occupational therapy service for the purpose of developing students daily living skills in compliance with established goals and objectives.

Researches resources and methods for the purpose of determining the appropriate approach for addressing students' functional goals.

Responds to inquiries for the purpose of providing information and/or referral as appropriate.

Transports supplies and equipment to a variety of sites for the purpose of ensuring the availability of items as needed.

Other Functions Performs other related duties as assigned for the purpose of ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of the work unit.

Job Requirements: Minimum Qualifications

ABILITY is required to schedule activities, meetings, and/or events; gather, collate, and/or classify data; and use basic, job-related equipment. Flexibility is required to independently work with others in a wide variety of circumstances; work with data utilizing defined but different processes; and operate equipment using standardized methods. Ability is also required to work with a significant diversity of individuals and/or groups; work with data of widely varied types and/or purposes; and utilize a variety of job-related equipment. Independent problem solving is required to analyze issues and create action plans. Problem solving with data may require independent interpretation; and problem solving with equipment is significant.

Specific ability based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: adapting to changing work priorities; communicating with diverse groups; maintaining confidentiality; meeting deadlines and schedules; working as part of a team; working with detailed information/data; maintaining effective working relationships; translating therapy data into meaningful educational activities; and dealing with frequent interruptions.

KNOWLEDGE is required to perform algebra and/or geometry; review and interpret highly technical information, write technical materials, and/or speak persuasively to implement desired actions; and analyze situations to define issues and draw conclusions. Specific knowledge based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: age appropriate activities; concepts of grammar and punctuation; health standards and hazards; safety practices and procedures; stages of child development; abnormal development and medical diagnoses related to special Education funding categories; current OT treatment interventions; pertinent codes, policies, regulations and/or laws; knowledge of community resources; and recordkeeping and record retention practices.

SKILLS are required to perform multiple, highly complex, technical tasks with a need to periodically upgrade skills in order to meet changing job conditions. Specific skill based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: applying assessment instruments; operating equipment used in occupational therapy strategies; operating standard office equipment including pertinent computer software; and preparing and maintaining accurate records.

Responsibilities include: working under limited supervision using standardized practices and/or methods; directing other persons within a small work unit; operating within a defined budget. Utilization of some resources from other work units is often required to perform the job's functions. There is a continual opportunity to impact the organization's services.

Working Environment

The usual and customary methods of performing the job's functions require the following physical demands: significant lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling, some climbing and balancing, frequent stooping, kneeling, crouching, and/or crawling and significant fine finger dexterity. Generally the job requires 34% sitting, 33% walking, and 33% standing. The job is performed under minimal temperature variations and under conditions with exposure to risk of injury and/or illness.

Experience

Job related experience within a specialized field is required. Education Bachelors degree in job-related area. Equivalency: Certificates Continuing Educ./Training Valid Arizona Occupational Therapy State License Continuing Education Requirements Valid Driver's License & Evidence of Insurability Maintains Certificates and/or Licenses Clearances Criminal Justice Fingerprint/Background Clearance FLSA Status Exempt Approval Date May12, 2014