Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA)

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)

Benefits and Perks

• 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching up to 2%
• Paid time off and sick leave
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Life and disability insurance coverage
• Annual performance reviews and professional feedback
• Electronic medical documentation system
• Employee recognition and appreciation events

Position Overview

We are seeking a compassionate and motivated Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to join our rehabilitation team. In this role, you will work under the direction of a licensed Occupational Therapist to help residents improve their functional abilities, maintain independence, and participate more fully in their daily routines.

The COTA will deliver individualized therapeutic interventions, monitor resident responses to treatment, maintain accurate clinical records, and work closely with the interdisciplinary team to support meaningful rehabilitation outcomes. Responsibilities will be performed in accordance with established treatment plans, applicable state regulations, and professional practice standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide occupational therapy interventions based on established treatment plans and the individual needs, abilities, and goals of each resident.
• Guide residents through therapeutic exercises and functional activities designed to improve self-care, coordination, mobility, and participation in daily tasks.
• Monitor resident performance and tolerance during treatment sessions, documenting functional changes, responses to interventions, and progress toward established goals.
• Partner with the supervising Occupational Therapist to communicate changes in resident status and contribute to appropriate updates to the plan of care.
• Educate residents and caregivers on adaptive techniques, assistive devices, home exercise programs, and strategies that promote safety and independence.
• Assist residents with activities of daily living, including dressing, grooming, and other self-care routines, as appropriate to the treatment plan.
• Collaborate with nursing, physical therapy, speech therapy, and other members of the care team to promote coordinated resident care.
• Participate in interdisciplinary care conferences and discharge planning discussions to support continuity of care and successful transitions.
• Prepare, organize, sanitize, and maintain therapy equipment and treatment materials in accordance with facility procedures.
• Incorporate therapeutic tasks, purposeful activities, games, and other appropriate interventions to encourage resident participation and engagement.
• Provide encouragement and supportive instruction to help residents build confidence, develop coping strategies, and work toward their rehabilitation goals.
• Maintain timely, accurate, and compliant clinical documentation in the facility's electronic medical record system.
• Follow applicable infection prevention practices, facility policies, ethical guidelines, and occupational therapy standards.

Qualifications and Skills

• Knowledge of rehabilitation practices and the functional needs of residents in a skilled nursing or post-acute care environment.
• Strong clinical observation and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to establish positive, professional relationships with residents, families, and interdisciplinary team members.
• Excellent time management, organization, and attention to clinical documentation.
• A resident-centered approach that emphasizes dignity, safety, compassion, and individualized care.
• Ability to use and maintain therapeutic equipment and assist with the preparation of adaptive devices.
• Willingness and ability to travel between locations when required by the position.

Education and Licensure

• Associate degree from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program.
• Current and active Occupational Therapy Assistant license or authorization to practice in the state of employment.
• Ability to meet applicable federal and state requirements, facility policies, and professional standards governing occupational therapy services.

Physical and Environmental Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the workday.
• Ability to assist with resident transfers, repositioning, lifting, and mobility activities, using appropriate equipment and assistance when needed.
• Frequent bending, reaching, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and other movements associated with providing hands-on rehabilitation services.
• Ability to safely handle therapy equipment and supplies and perform the essential physical functions of the position, with reasonable accommodation where applicable.