Occupational Therapy Assistant; COTA Pittsburg, CA

Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) – Spectrum Center Schools and Programs

Pittsburg, CA
• Starting Rate: $35 - $40 /hour based on experience

Environment:
Special Education Program, Grades K-12

We are a growing, dynamic organization with a social mission to offer hope, seeking an Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to join our award-winning Special Education team and perform meaningful work in a culture that welcomes innovation and offers personal and professional growth.

If you excel in a collaborative, student-centered environment and want to impact the lives of children with special needs, bring creativity, compassion, a positive attitude, and dedication — We Should Talk!

As an Occupational Therapy Assistant
, you will play a critical role in empowering students with special needs to achieve educational success by delivering occupational therapy services under the guidance of a licensed Occupational Therapist, upholding excellence across multiple school locations and collaborative educational teams.

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Responsibilities Include:

• Providing targeted occupational therapy interventions aligned with students' IEPs, following designated service hours and established schedules.
• Assisting the Occupational Therapist during evaluations by collecting pertinent data, administering standardized assessments, and observing students to determine functional capabilities and developmental needs.
• Maintaining precise, organized, and timely documentation of student progress, including daily session notes and progress reports, in compliance with district and program protocols.
• Collaborating with educators and support staff to integrate therapeutic goals into classroom activities and provide strategies and accommodations to optimize student achievement.
• Modifying classroom environments, resources, and instructional materials under supervision to enhance engagement and access to the curriculum.
• Training school staff and families on adaptive equipment and practical techniques to boost students' functional independence.
• Maintaining therapy tools, equipment, and supplies in good condition and reporting issues to the supervising OT.
• Attending and participating in IEP meetings, collaborative team discussions, and professional development activities to enhance student planning and support.
• Upholding professional and ethical standards in interactions with students, families, and team members, including confidentiality and cultural respect.
• Travelling regularly and maintaining a consistent onsite presence to support multiple Spectrum School locations within the designated region.
• Performing additional tasks as assigned to advance the mission and effectiveness of Spectrum Center Schools and Programs.

‖ Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor's degree or higher in occupational therapy or a closely related field.
• Licensed currently or in the process of obtaining a certified occupational therapy assistant (COTA) credential.
• Hold a valid CA driver’s license or ability to obtain one.
• Prior experience and/or knowledge in special education services and compliance, particularly for students with severe learning, emotional/behavioral disorders, autism spectrum disorders, and related disabilities.
• Prior experience and/or knowledge in applied behavior analysis (ABA) preferred.
• Ability to think and act quickly and calmly in an emergency and make independent decisions.
• Proficiency in motivating students and engaging in productive conversations to move them toward goals.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain organization and attention to detail.
• Effective presentation and response skills for groups of staff, students, parents, and the public.
• Advanced oral and written communication, organization, conflict resolution, multitasking, problem solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Proficiency with technology, including Microsoft Office Suite, databases, and basic office equipment.

Chance Light Behavioral Health, Therapy, & Education is a division of Chance Light, the nation’s leading provider of alternative and special education programs for children and young adults. For more than 45 years, in partnership with over 235 school districts nationwide, we…