Part Time Occupational Therapist

Specialized Education Services•Peoria, IL

About The Position

The Occupational Therapist provides services to students eligible for occupational therapy intervention in accordance with their IEP/ISP. The therapist may also assess students when requested, in accordance with state and district requirements. The position works with students, classroom teachers, and parents to support educational needs and student progress.

Requirements

Bachelor’s or master’s degree in occupational therapy, as required by state and contract.
NBCOT certification and/or valid state certification as specified in the contract.
Ability to work independently.
Motivated and well-organized.
Good communication skills with adults and students.
Ability to run short distances and move swiftly in response to student needs, including bending, kneeling, and crouching.
Ability to lift and assist students with mobility challenges, often handling up to 50 pounds or more.
Skill in managing fine motor tasks, such as helping students with writing, manipulating small objects, or using adaptive devices.
Ability to operate a computer or tablet for up to 8 hours daily.
Capacity to notice and respond to non-verbal cues from students.
Capacity to remain calm and composed during physically and emotionally demanding situations, ensuring student safety and well-being.

Responsibilities

Provide occupational therapy intervention using exercises and equipment to facilitate fine motor coordination based on goals and objectives in students’ IEPs/ISPs.
Monitor student progress.
Test and evaluate students, when requested, to determine their need for or continuing need for occupational therapy.
Consult with classroom teachers about occupational therapy plans to ensure interventions address students’ educational needs and are incorporated into the classroom when appropriate and possible.
Communicate regularly with parents about student progress and support incorporating interventions into home activities when appropriate and possible.
Develop research-based solutions, using sound professional judgment, to address challenges for individual students.
Refer students to community resources as needed.
Complete required paperwork in a timely and organized manner.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Supervise the OT Assistant.