Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant

Stanislaus County • Modesto, CA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Health Services Agency is seeking a compassionate, skilled Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant with pediatric experience serving children with complex medical conditions. Under medical direction and the supervision of a licensed occupational therapist, the assistant implements occupational therapy interventions for physically disabled clients from birth through age 21 who are eligible for services through the California Children’s Services Medical Therapy Program (CCS MTP). The role requires specialized knowledge of pediatric care, occupational therapy laws and regulations, and participation in an interdisciplinary team with parents, caregivers, and other professionals.

Services are primarily provided in an outpatient clinic, and may also take place in clients’ homes and communities to address equipment needs and caregiver training. The assistant uses clinical reasoning to carry out and adapt interventions within the established plan of care based on each patient’s response, and communicates significant changes to the supervising occupational therapist. The position calls for organized, adaptable, culturally responsive, family-centered care that supports children’s functional outcomes.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program or equivalent.
• Possess and maintain a current Occupational Therapy Assistant license issued by the California Board of Occupational Therapy.
• Demonstrate acceptable therapeutic techniques in a wide variety of occupational therapies.
• Follow, understand, and implement a licensed therapist’s written or oral directions regarding occupational therapy treatment plans.
• Maintain treatment records and complete accurate medical records or charts; prepare reports.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with patients, families, coworkers, and medical-professional staff.
• Maintain excellent customer relations and communicate effectively, orally and in writing.
• Motivate patients and use computers and standard office automation equipment.
• Have physical stamina to assist patients with mobility and exercise activities.
• Knowledge of principles, methods, materials, and equipment used in physical therapy; basic anatomy and physiology; safe patient positioning; body mechanics and safety procedures; treatment hazards and precautions; basic medical record keeping and computer operations; and English usage, grammar, spelling, vocabulary, and punctuation.
• Pass a County-paid pre-employment job-related background investigation.
• Perform duties in a manner that assures a safe working environment and maintain confidential information according to applicable legal standards and County regulations.
• Understand and communicate in English sufficiently to safely and effectively perform the essential functions of the position.
• Submit proof of education at the time of application, or contact the specified phone number to make other arrangements before 5 p.m. on the final filing date.
• A valid California Driver’s License may be required depending on the assignment; some positions also require meeting County insurability requirements.

Nice To Haves

• Pediatric experience serving children with complex medical conditions.

Responsibilities

• Implement individualized treatment plans designed by occupational therapists.
• Report patient responses to treatment and changes in functional status to the occupational therapist.
• Instruct, motivate, and assist patients with therapeutic activities and functional tasks.
• Maintain accurate treatment records and prepare written patient progress reports.
• Assist in gathering patient assessment data.
• Assist in evaluating for and ordering durable medical equipment and orthotics, and instruct patients and caregivers in their use.
• Provide activities of daily living training and caregiver education to promote functional independence in self-care, consistent with the established plan of care.
• Participate in the IEP process and represent the Medical Therapy Program.
• Attend clinics, case conferences, staff meetings, and in-service training.
• Consult with patients’ caregivers and other agencies involved in the care of assigned patients.
• Maintain treatment areas, equipment, and supplies in a clean, safe, and organized condition; adjust and make minor repairs to equipment as needed.
• Perform other related duties.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree