Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA)

Advanced Health Care of Sacramento•Sacramento, CA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) assists Occupational Therapists in providing rehabilitative services to residents. The role supports residents in regaining independence in activities of daily living and improving their quality of life by implementing individualized treatment plans, providing hands-on therapy assistance, and coordinating care with residents, families, and other team members. The position is part-time and PRN, with weekday and weekend day scheduling. Work is performed in a medical setting and involves direct interaction with residents, families, and team members.

Requirements

Current certification as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA).
Current CPR certification.
State licensure or eligibility for licensure as a COTA in the state where work is performed.
Strong clinical skills in rehabilitative services for individuals with a variety of diagnoses and functional limitations.
Ability to build rapport with residents through a compassionate and caring demeanor.
Commitment to high-quality, resident-centered care.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively with residents, families, and team members.
Ability to accept criticism and deal calmly and effectively with high-stress situations.
Ability to assist residents with mobility, including transfers, standing, walking, and positioning.
Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, talk, hear, stoop, kneel, crouch, stretch, and twist; required vision includes close, distance, and peripheral vision and the ability to adjust focus.
Ability to lift or maneuver equipment such as therapy mats, adaptive devices, or weights.
Ability to stand for extended periods and move around the facility.
Ability to keep the hand and arm steady while moving or holding them in position.
Stamina to work full shifts and perform repetitive tasks, including providing therapy to multiple residents and documenting sessions.
Regular attendance and punctuality according to the schedule designated by the department supervisor or manager.

Nice To Haves

One to two years of clinical experience in a skilled nursing facility or similar healthcare setting is preferred.

Responsibilities

Assist Occupational Therapists with assessments of residents’ physical, cognitive, and psychosocial functioning, including their ability to perform activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living.
Implement individualized treatment plans developed by Occupational Therapists, including therapeutic exercises, activities, and interventions.
Provide hands-on assistance and guidance during therapy sessions while ensuring safety, proper technique, and therapeutic outcomes.
Use adaptive equipment, assistive devices, and environmental modifications to support participation in therapy and independence in daily tasks.
Document resident progress, interventions, and outcomes accurately and promptly in accordance with facility policies and regulatory requirements.
Communicate with Occupational Therapists, nursing staff, and other team members to coordinate care and promote continuity of services.
Collaborate with residents and families to establish goals, educate them on therapeutic techniques and strategies, and provide support during rehabilitation.
Participate in team meetings, case conferences, and discharge planning discussions.
Stay current on occupational therapy best practices, evidence-based interventions, and regulatory changes, and participate in continuing education and professional development as needed.
Maintain professional licensure and adhere to applicable ethical standards.
Perform other duties as assigned.