Occupational Therapist OT

School-Based Occupational Therapist (OT) | Tacoma, WA | 2026–2027 School Year | Early Childhood

Ampersand Therapy is hiring a School-Based Occupational Therapist (OT) for the 2026–2027 school year in Tacoma, Washington. This position will support preschool students ages 3–5 in an early learning setting.

We are a women- and therapist-founded company working to elevate the employment experience for school-based professionals. Join a supportive team and help young students develop the skills needed to participate meaningfully and independently in their educational environment.

Job Highlights:

• Location: Tacoma, WA
• Position: School-Based Occupational Therapist
• Setting: In-person, early learning program
• Grade Levels: Preschool, ages 3–5
• Anticipated Start Date: Early September 2026
• School Year: 2026–2027
• Schedule, FTE, and caseload details will be confirmed

Responsibilities:

• Conduct occupational therapy evaluations and reevaluations
• Provide individualized and small-group occupational therapy services
• Develop and implement Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals
• Support students’ fine-motor, visual-motor, sensory-processing, self-regulation, and daily living skills
• Help students improve their participation in classroom routines, play, and early learning activities
• Recommend adaptive equipment, assistive technology, and environmental modifications when appropriate
• Track student progress and maintain accurate service documentation
• Prepare evaluation reports, progress reports, and other required records
• Participate in IEP meetings, eligibility meetings, and multidisciplinary team planning
• Collaborate with teachers, families, administrators, and related service providers
• Provide consultation and strategies to classroom staff and families
• Ensure services comply with state, federal, and district requirements

Qualifications:

• Master’s or doctoral degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program
• Valid Washington State Occupational Therapist license or eligibility to obtain one
• Valid Washington Educational Staff Associate certificate or eligibility to obtain one
• Current NBCOT certification
• Must have current fingerprints on file with OSPI or be willing to complete
• Must provide at least two supervisory references
• Experience working with preschool-aged children preferred
• Previous pediatric, early-intervention, or school-based experience preferred
• Strong communication, documentation, organization, and collaboration skills

Benefits & Perks:

• Paid Sick Leave
• Healthcare Benefits*
• 401(k) with company matching*
• Reimbursement for licensure, CEUs, and professional development
• Mileage reimbursement at IRS rate
• W-2 employee status with liability insurance coverage
• Referral bonuses
• No non-compete clause

(*Healthcare benefits available for 0.8 FTE or higher after a short waiting period)

Why Work With Ampersand Therapy?

Ampersand Therapy is a local, women- and therapist-operated company founded by providers who understand what it’s like to work in schools. Our mission is to build a community of therapists who feel supported, appreciated, and empowered to make a difference. We proudly serve school districts throughout Western Washington and across several other states.

You’ll work alongside a small, passionate team of school-based specialists—some of whom are still active providers in schools themselves. We offer mentorship and support, especially for professionals who are newer to school-based practice, and are deeply committed to equity, sustainability, and community involvement.

Our Values:

• Equity & Inclusion
• Community Engagement
• Environmental Sustainability

Apply today to join a team of passionate school-based professionals and make a difference as an Occupational Therapist in Tacoma, WA!