2025-2026 CERTIFIED OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT (COTA)

Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA)

The job of a Classified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA) was established for the purpose of providing educationally relevant Occupational Therapy services to students suffering from a variety of cognitive, emotional, and/or physical illnesses or disabilities according to the student's Individual Education Plan (IEP) and under direction of a registered Occupational Therapist (OTR/L). This job reports to the Occupational Therapist and/or Support Services Director.

Principal duties include adapting school and classroom environment, tools and materials under the supervision of the Occupational Therapist for the purpose of improving student functioning and facilitating student access to curricular and instructional activities. Implementing therapeutic activities and instructing students for the purpose of providing appropriate care to students and/or supporting the student's IEP plan for use in the classroom under supervision of the Occupational Therapist. Maintaining treatment equipment and supplies in clean and proper working condition for the purpose of implementing motor/therapy goals. Presenting information (i.e.: student performance data, clinical feedback, etc.) for the purpose of communicating information to the supervisor. Providing direct Occupational Therapy services according to IEP goals for the purpose of ensuring compliance with established practices and procedures. Providing services at multiple work sites for the purpose of providing therapy and assistance as required. Researching resources and methods (i.e.: intervention activities) for the purpose of determining the appropriate activities for addressing students' functional needs and goals. Attending professional development training for the purpose of improving Occupational Therapy skills as required by the Arizona Occupational Therapy Board. Keeping log with COTA/OTR supervisor signatures for the purpose of documenting OTR supervision as required by Arizona Occupational Therapy rules and regulations.

Skills are required to perform single, technical tasks with a potential need to upgrade skills in order to meet changing job conditions. Specific skill-based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: adhering to safety practices; operating equipment used in Occupational Therapy; and preparing and maintaining accurate records. Knowledge is required to perform basic math, including calculations using fractions, percent's and/or rations; compose a variety of documents and/or facilitate group discussions and solve practical problems. Specific knowledge based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions if the job include: student behavior management skills; adaptive equipment; and Occupational Therapy models, practices and theories. Ability is required to work with a diversity of individuals and/or groups; work with a variety of data; and utilize a variety of job-related equipment. Flexibility is required to independently work with others in a wide variety of circumstances. Problem solving is required to identify issues and create action plans. Specific skill-based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: being attentive to detail; communicating with diverse groups; maintaining confidentiality; working as part of a team; displaying tact and courtesy; being empathetic and nonjudgmental; and establishing and maintaining effective relationships, especially with students.

Minimum qualifications include a degree from an accredited Occupational Therapist Assistance program. Required license/certification includes: current Arizona license to practice Occupational Therapy, national certification, valid driver's license and evidence of insurability, and current CPR certification.