Pediatric occupational therapist

JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY

The Pediatric Occupational Therapist is responsible for evaluating and treating children with physical, sensory, or cognitive challenges. The focus is on helping children reach developmental milestones and improve their ability to function in home, school, and social environments. Using a "play-based" approach, the OT addresses fine motor skills, sensory processing, activities of daily living (ADLs), and for adherence to all conditions in the Service Agreement.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES

Clinical Assessment & Evaluation Conduct comprehensive evaluations of children (ages 0-18) to determine developmental delays in fine motor, visual-motor, sensory processing, and self-care skills. Administer and interpret standardized tests such as the Peabody (PDMS-2), BOT-2, Sensory Profile, or Beery-VMI. Analyze clinical observations of a child's behavior, muscle tone, range of motion, and coordination during play-based activities. Treatment Planning & Goal Setting Develop Individualized Treatment Plans (ITPs) or contribute to Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) with measurable, time-bound goals. Modify treatment strategies based on the child’s rate of progress and changing needs. Determine the frequency and duration of services required to achieve functional outcomes. Therapeutic Intervention Provide direct 1:1 therapy using evidence-based practices to improve: Fine Motor Skills: Handwriting, grasping, and manipulation of small objects. Sensory Integration: Helping children regulate their responses to external stimuli (noise, touch, movement). Activities of Daily Living (ADLs): Training in dressing, grooming, and feeding. Neuromuscular Re-education: Improving posture, balance, and upper body strength. Utilize specialized equipment such as sensory swings, weighted blankets, and adaptive seating. Documentation & Compliance Maintain timely and accurate clinical records, including daily SOAP notes, evaluation reports, and progress summaries. Ensure compliance with state (California Board of OT) and federal (HIPAA/IDEA) regulations regarding patient privacy and service delivery. Collaboration & Education Provide Caregiver Coaching: Educate parents and caregivers on "Home Exercise Programs" (HEPs) to ensure the child's progress carries over into daily life. Consult with multi-disciplinary teams, including Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs), Physical Therapists (PTs), and Pediatricians, to coordinate a holistic care plan. Attend and participate in staff meetings, case conferences, and IEP meetings Professional Development & Safety Maintain a safe and clean therapeutic environment, ensuring all toys and equipment are sanitized and in good repair. Stay current with industry trends and research by completing required Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for California licensure. Supervise OT Assistants (COTAs) or students if required by the clinic's operational structure. Prepares and submits notes per organization policy. Identifies patient and family/caregiver needs for other services and refers as appropriate. Instructs patient, family/caregiver and other Organization health care personnel in thepatient's treatment regime as indicated. The above statements are only meant to be a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this job. The incumbents may be requested to perform job related tasks other than those stated in this description.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS

1. Education & Certification Degree: A Master's or Doctorate degree in Occupational Therapy from a program accredited by the ACOTE (Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education). National Certification: Successful completion of the national exam administered by the NBCOT (National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy). Candidate should hold the "OTR" (Occupational Therapist, Registered) designation. 2. State Licensure (California Requirements) CBOT License: Must hold a current, valid license from the California Board of Occupational Therapy (CBOT). Advanced Clearances: For California, it is highly preferred (and sometimes required) that they have advanced practice approval in: Swallowing assessment/intervention (if they will handle feeding therapy). Hand therapy (if they will focus on orthopedic pediatric needs). 3. Clinical Experience Pediatric Focus: Minimum of 1-2 years of experience in a pediatric setting (outpatient clinic, school district, or early intervention) is preferred. Assessment Proficiency: Demonstrated experience using pediatric-standardized tools such as the Peabody (PDMS-2), BOT-2, and Sensory Profile. Specialized Knowledge: Familiarity with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and neurodevelopmental disorders. 4. Skills & Competencies Play-Based Therapy: Ability to design therapeutic interventions that feel like "play" to keep children engaged. Interpersonal Skills: Strong ability to communicate complex clinical concepts to parents and caregivers in a way that is easy to understand. Documentation: Proficiency with Electronic Medical Records (EMR) and a high level of detail in writing SOAP notes and progress reports. 5. Legal & Safety Clearances Basic Life Support (BLS): Current CPR/BLS certification for Healthcare Providers. Physical Stamina: Ability to sit on the floor, crawl, kneel, and lift up to 50 lbs to safely assist children during therapy. 6.A minimum of one (1) year's clinical experience in PediatricOccupational Therapy. 7. Demonstrates good verbal and written communication, and organization skills. 8.Licensed driver with automobile that is in good working order and insured in accordance with the organization requirements. #J-18808-Ljbffr Evolve Home Health