Occupational Therapist

Position Type:
Student Support Services

Date Posted:
8/21/2026

Location:
Various Locations

Closing Date:
08/31/2026
Job Description

Title: Occupational Therapist Location: Travel Between Multiple Buildings

Employment Type: Full-Time Work Days: 10 Months

FLSA: Exempt Reports to: Director of Student Services

Salary Range:

$50,727 - $64,233 Salary is based on CBA Union negotiated terms w/ 10yr credit cap.

Job Summary:

The Occupational Therapist provides educationally related occupational therapy services to students receiving special education services. This position focuses on supporting students' ability to access the educational environment by addressing fine motor, sensory motor, and functional performance needs.

The Occupational Therapist collaborates with educators, specialists, and families to support student growth, independence, and success in both general and special education settings.

Essential Duties and Specific Responsibilities:

• Assess student functional performance through observation, record review, and collaboration with the educational team using appropriate assessment tools.
• Develop and implement intervention strategies aligned with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
• Modify and adapt classroom activities to meet individual student needs.
• Monitor student progress, maintain documentation, and participate in IEP meetings and conferences.
• Collaborate with teachers, paraprofessionals, and specialists to support student success.
• Participate in problem-solving and intervention teams.
• Communicate effectively with parents, students, and case managers regarding progress.
• Establish a safe and supportive learning environment that promotes student development.
• Provide training and modeling for staff on occupational therapy strategies and supports.
• Maintain and monitor therapy equipment and materials.
• Stay current with evidence-based occupational therapy practices.
• Participate in district committees, staff development, and school improvement initiatives.
• Support and enforce school policies, procedures, and expectations.
• Collaborate with staff in planning and implementing curriculum and student support.
• Participate in required events outside of regular work hours (e.g., orientations, conferences).
• Prepare comprehensive evaluation reports with educationally relevant recommendations.
• Develop and implement individualized therapy plans aligned to IEP goals.
• Provide direct and consultative occupational therapy services to students in individual and small group settings.
• Integrate therapy strategies into classroom routines to support generalization of skills.
• Participate in IEP meetings and contribute to goal development and progress reporting.
• Maintain accurate, timely documentation of services, progress, and compliance requirements.
• Ensure services align with IDEA, Section 504, and Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) regulations.
• Collaborate with teachers, special education staff, SLPs, psychologists, and administrators.
• Provide consultation and training to staff on strategies to support student needs in the classroom.
• Communicate effectively with families regarding student progress and recommendations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Education, Certification, and Licensure:

• Current Illinois Occupational Therapist license required.
• Pediatric experience required.
• School-based experience is preferred.

Professional Experience and Skills:

• Experience working with students ages 3-21 in both general and special education settings.
• Strong knowledge of fine motor, sensory integration, and functional skill development.
• Ability to assess student needs and implement appropriate interventions.
• Strong collaboration and communication skills with multidisciplinary teams.
• Ability to maintain accurate documentation and comply with IEP requirements.
• Knowledge of special education laws, procedures, and best practices.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.

Student Support, Engagement, and Staff Development:

• Support students in developing functional skills necessary for academic success and independence.
• Collaborate with staff to implement accommodations and modifications.
• Provide guidance and training to staff on strategies to support student needs.
• Promote inclusive practices and equitable access to learning.
• Support student social-emotional development and engagement.

Success Indicators (First Three-to-Five Years):

• Improved student functional performance and progress toward IEP goals.
• Effective collaboration with staff and families to support student success.
• Timely and compliant completion of all documentation and reporting requirements.
• Increased staff capacity to support students through training and collaboration.
• Positive student engagement and participation in the educational environment.