Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary: $$ 35 - $$ 40 per hour Location: Birmingham, Alabama We are seeking a dedicated, enthusiastic Daycare-Based Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to join our early childhood care team in Birmingham. Working under the supervision of a Licensed Occupational Therapist (OTR), you will help infants, toddlers, and preschoolers build the fine motor, sensory, visual-motor, and self-help skills necessary to participate fully in daily play, routines, and early learning environments. Key Responsibilities Direct Therapy Delivery: Implement targeted occupational therapy interventions to support toddlers' and preschoolers' individualized developmental goals and early intervention plans. Classroom & Play Integration: Focus on functional skill-building through play, including fine motor grasp, tool use (crayons, safety scissors, eating utensils), sensory regulation, self-feeding, dressing, and navigating play spaces safely. Collaboration & Support: Work closely with lead daycare teachers, early childhood aides, and support staff to implement sensory breaks, flexible seating modifications, and developmental accommodations during circle time and routine activities. Progress Tracking & Reporting: Document child progress toward specific developmental milestones, log therapy sessions, and contribute data for progress updates and team meetings under OTR guidance. Equipment & Environmental Setup: Assist with adaptive seating, floor-time support equipment, and assistive play devices tailored for infants, toddlers, and young children. Family Engagement: Maintain warm, open communication with parents and caregivers to provide home activity ideas and reinforce daily developmental strategies. Qualifications & Requirements Education: Graduate of an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program. Licensure: Active (or eligibility for) COTA license from the Alabama State Board of Occupational Therapy. Certifications: Current NBCOT certification and Pediatric CPR/First Aid certification. Experience: Prior experience working with infants, toddlers, or early childhood pediatric populations preferred. Skills: Strong interpersonal skills, patience, creative play-based problem-solving, and deep knowledge of early childhood developmental milestones. Join our early learning community in Birmingham and make a direct, positive impact on young children's growth and development!