Occupational Therapist

Occupational Therapist

The Occupational Therapist delivers Occupational Therapy services to school-aged individuals with Autism, in accordance with the clinical instructions and Code of Ethics of the profession. This position serves as a member of Multi-Disciplinary Teams (MDT) and is responsible for effectively communicating and collaborating with team members to deliver services and achieve student progress. This position also possesses considerable knowledge about the effective and ethical treatment of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Essential Functions

• Performs standardized and non-standardized assessments
• Delivers direct 1:1 therapeutic services and/or supports for school personnel (SSP) for a caseload of students assigned by the Director of Related Services
• Assesses and reports student strengths and needs; develops and implements measurable goals, objectives and lesson plans; collects and analyzes data; and reports progress related to the OT domains
• Formulates treatment programs to address Individualized Education Plan (IEP) goals and objectives and Specially Designed Instruction (SDIs)
• Serves as a member of the Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) for planning, problem solving, and progress monitoring of students and IEP
• Actively participates in team meetings, IEP meetings, and Treatment Plan meetings, and maintains communication with parents/guardians, school district personnel, and outside agency representatives
• Participates in professional development activities in order to maintain necessary certifications and licensure, and contributes to staff development and coaching
• Maintains accurate and complete records, and effectively documents and/or bills for services delivered in accordance with IEP standards and billing guidelines

• Completes other duties as assigned
• Supervisory Responsibility

This position may fulfill supervision requirements in accordance with PA state laws for Vista's Certified OT Assistants.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The following positions or frequent movements are typical of the job: sitting, walking, standing, reaching, pushing, pulling, lifting, stooping, and crawling, often for extended periods of the workday. Assignment may require the ability to physically move students during possible physical interventions in order to maintain a safe learning environment.

The position requires that an individual be able to learn new tasks quickly and effectively. Job requirements may change frequently. The ability to understand and carry out detailed, involved, instructions is mandatory. The incumbent must be able to travel to multiple locations as needed, when needed to conduct organizational business. Subject to inside environmental conditions.

Expected Schedule

This is a minimum full-time position with a 40-hour work week expectation, unless otherwise agreed upon by management, the department/caseload needs, and The Vista School student calendar.

Minimum Qualifications

• Valid Pennsylvania Occupational Therapy License required
• Minimum Master's degree in Occupational Therapy from an Accredited University or College required
• Certification by National Board for Certification of Occupational Therapy required
• Successful completion of Vista's crisis intervention training is required
• Valid Pa Driver's License highly preferred

Knowledge and Skills

• Doctorate degree in Occupational Therapy highly desired
• Experience working with individuals with Autism using principles of Applied Behavior Analysis highly desired
• Demonstrates strong leadership abilities and organizational skills
• Effectively manages multiple priorities, projects, and deadlines
• Problem solves in a positive manner to analyze issues and create action plans