Occupational Therapist

Job Description

Job Description

Posting: Public
Reports to: Assistant Principal

About Us: The Shirley Aninias School is a private, 12-month behavior-based elementary program serving neurodiverse students ages 4–13. We create highly individualized programs that address each child’s academic, social-emotional, and behavioral needs. Our team is committed to providing meaningful accommodations in a supportive learning environment that nurtures each student’s potential. We’re excited to welcome passionate, experienced professionals who are eager to collaborate, grow, and make a difference.

Position Overview: We are seeking a dedicated School Occupational Therapist (OT) to join our multidisciplinary team. The OT will play a critical role in helping students develop the fine motor, sensory, and adaptive skills needed to access their education and participate fully in the school day. The role includes direct therapy services, collaboration with staff, support in developing classroom accommodations, and active participation in student support planning.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Assessment & Planning:
   • Conduct comprehensive occupational therapy evaluations to determine students' motor, sensory, self-care, and environmental needs.
   • Collaborate with IEP teams to develop, review, and revise occupational therapy goals and objectives.
   • Develop individualized treatment plans that support student success across academic and functional settings.

2. Therapeutic Interventions:
   • Provide direct OT services in individual or small group settings as outlined in student IEPs.
   • Design and implement therapy interventions focused on fine motor coordination, visual-motor integration, sensory processing, and daily living skills.
   • Recommend adaptive strategies, modifications, and tools to support student engagement and independence in the classroom.

3. Data Collection & Reporting:
   • Maintain accurate, timely documentation of all services, including assessments, interventions, and progress monitoring.
   • Track and report student progress regularly to the IEP team, school staff, and families.
   • Conduct periodic re-evaluations to adjust therapy plans as needed and support ongoing IEP development.

4. Collaboration & Communication:
   • Work closely with teachers, support staff, and related service providers to integrate OT goals into daily routines and activities.
   • Attend and actively participate in IEP and multidisciplinary team meetings.
   • Communicate regularly with families regarding student progress, therapy goals, and recommendations for home practice.
   • Provide training and consultation to staff on the use of sensory tools, motor strategies, and adaptive techniques.

Physical Requirements and Essential Functions:

• Ability to physically support students with motor needs, including kneeling, bending, and sitting at floor level.
• Engage in active play, student transitions, and classroom tasks that require movement and flexibility.
• Lift and manage therapy equipment or adaptive materials as needed (up to 35 lbs).
• Maintain visual and auditory supervision of students during therapy and school activities.
• Travel between classrooms and therapy spaces throughout the school day.
• Must have or be willing to obtain current First Aid and CPR certification.

Qualifications:

• Required: Master’s Degree or higher in Occupational Therapy.
• Required: Current NYS certification in good standing.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in a school or clinical setting, preferably working with neurodiverse student populations.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with students, families, and school staff.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational, documentation, and communication abilities.
• Flexible, compassionate, and committed to student-centered, inclusive practices.
• Engaged in ongoing professional development and current with best practices in occupational therapy and school-based services.

Benefits:

• Matching 401(k) (after 6 months)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance
• Long term disability insurance
• Commuter benefits
• Generous leave package
• Training opportunities

The Shirley Aninias School is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.