Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA)
About The Position
REAL Journey Academies (RJA), a non-profit charter school, seeks a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to support students with disabilities. Under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist (OT), the COTA implements OT treatment plans and provides services in accordance with student IEPs and applicable special education requirements. The role supports students’ fine motor, sensory processing, visual-motor, self-help, functional, and school participation skills so they can access the educational environment. The position is full-time and located at Real Journey Academies in Ontario, California. The listed salary range is $30.00–$35.00 per hour.
Requirements
- Associate degree from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program.
- Current Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) certification and current California Occupational Therapy Assistant license, as applicable.
- Valid California driver’s license and reliable transportation.
- DOJ/FBI fingerprint clearance, tuberculosis clearance, and other required pre-employment clearances.
- Knowledge of pediatric occupational therapy, sensory integration, handwriting, fine motor development, visual perception, executive functioning, and adaptive equipment.
- Understanding of IDEA, Section 504, California special education requirements, and inclusive educational practices.
- Ability to implement OT treatment plans, maintain accurate electronic documentation, and communicate effectively with students, families, and school personnel.
- Strong organizational, time-management, and collaborative skills.
- Ability to read and apply IEPs and relevant procedures and maintain accurate service logs, progress records, and electronic documentation.
- Ability to lift, transfer, position, and assist students weighing up to 50 pounds, with assistance when necessary.
Nice To Haves
- Two years of COTA experience in a school, pediatric, rehabilitation, or healthcare setting.
- Experience supporting students with a range of disabilities.
- Familiarity with UDL and MTSS.
- CPR and First Aid certification.
Responsibilities
- Implement treatment plans developed by the supervising Occupational Therapist and provide individual or small-group services specified in student IEPs.
- Support fine and gross motor, sensory processing, visual-motor, handwriting, self-care, and functional life skills.
- Assist students with classroom access through adaptive equipment, assistive technology, and environmental modifications under OT supervision.
- Document services and student progress toward IEP goals, maintain accurate service logs, and report performance data to the supervising OT.
- Prepare therapy materials, maintain equipment, and assist with classroom observations and implementation of OT strategies.
- Collaborate with teachers, administrators, related service providers, and families; participate in IEP meetings as requested by the supervising OT.
- Maintain confidentiality, follow applicable special education requirements, and attend required meetings, training, and professional development.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Education Level
Associate degree
