Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)

Job Description

Job Description

What we offer

• Earn up to $65/hour

• Build your own schedule — work as much or as little as you want

• Get paid for drive time + mileage reimbursement

• Medical, 401(k), PTO & paid sick time for eligible employees

• Clinical mentorship + ongoing support from senior therapists

• Continuing Education (CEU) opportunities for professional growth

Maxima Therapy Inc. is seeking dedicated and motivated Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs) for full-time and part-time positions to join our collaborative, interdisciplinary Early Start team. Our team includes occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, physical therapists, child development specialists, and assistants. In this role, the COTA works under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist to implement developmentally appropriate treatment plans and provide therapy services to infants and toddlers ages 0–3 with physical, emotional, developmental, or cognitive needs who qualify for Early Start services under Part C of IDEA. The COTA delivers therapy both in-person and remotely, administering direct 1:1 interventions, documenting progress, and ensuring therapy procedures are executed correctly, all while supporting children in developing daily living and work skills to enhance independence.

Where we hire СOTAs:

• Merced, Atwater, Winton, Livingston, Delhi, Hilmar
• Los Banos, Dos Palos, Santa Nella, Gustine
• SFV (San Fernando Valley)
• El Monte, Baldwin Park, Monrovia, Arcadia, Pasadena, Altadena, Whittier, La Puente
• Fairfield, Vacaville, Vallejo, Napa
• Oakland, Richmond, San Pablo, Hercules, Martinez, Fremont, Concord

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in the implementation of a child’s individualized treatment plans for patients based on their needs, goals, and assessment outcomes.
• Help set short-term and long-term goals for patients, following the guidance of the supervising Occupational Therapist.
• Provide direct therapy to children 0-3, in accordance with their personal treatment plan developed by the licensed occupational therapist, assisting them with exercises, motor skills training, or tasks aimed at improving abilities for daily living.
• Use play-based, developmentally appropriate techniques to engage children and encourage participation in therapy activities.
• Document therapy sessions accurately and in a timely manner, including progress notes, treatment modifications, and observations.
• Communicate regularly with families and caregivers, providing guidance, coaching, and strategies to support skill carryover into natural environments.
• Assist in monitoring the child’s progress and report outcomes to the supervising OT, contributing to ongoing plan adjustments as needed.
• Ensure all therapy interventions are delivered safely and in compliance with state regulations, Early Start guidelines, and agency policies.
• Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings to collaborate with speech-language pathologists, physical therapists, child development specialists, and other staff.
• Support the OT in equipment setup, adaptive device implementation, and preparation of therapy materials.
• Ability to work independently, as well as collaboratively in a team setting.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• An Associate’s degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program. Successful completion of the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam for Occupational Therapy Assistants.
• Certification and state licensure as a Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA), as required by the state of employment.
• COTA experience in pediatric setting (developmental disabilities preferred).
• Reliable form of transportation to complete in home visits, proof of auto insurance, and a valid driver’s license (for in-person)
• Proof of immunization records, CPR certification, and current, negative TB test (for in person)

Pay Rate

The professional rate for this position is up to $65/hr for time spent in sessions providing therapy services directly to the client; drive time and mileage reimbursement will be compensated at the applicable minimum wage and mileage reimbursement rate. The actual wage rate offered will vary based on several key factors including, but not limited to, the candidate's skill set, proficiency in relevant languages, years of professional experience, and the geographical location of the candidate. Benefits Offered for Full Time Employees. Salary for each position may vary based on location.