What are the responsibilities and job description for the Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant position at Bismarck Public Schools?
Bismarck Public Schools is accepting applications for a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant beginning the 2026-2027 School Year.
This position will work 36-40 hours per week and works 9 months per year.
Purpose Statement
The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) assists in providing occupational therapy services to students under the supervision of licensed therapists to support their educational goals.
Supervisory Relationship
Reports to: Assigned Registered Occupational Therapist(s) and Director of Special Education
Essential Functions
Skills
Work under direct supervision using standardized routines. Lead, guide, and coordinate others. Operate within a defined budget. Utilize resources from other work units as needed. Have a continual impact on the organization’s services.
Work Environment
Varies from well-equipped therapy rooms to hallways or other noisy, crowded areas due to space constraints. Requires the lifting and physical handling of students of all ages with multiple disabilities. Involves precautions regarding bodily fluids and physical handling during feeding, oral motor programming, and toileting.
Experience
Minimum of one year of experience with a background in pediatrics, school systems, assistive technology, or sensory integration is desirable.
Education
Associate degree in Occupational Therapy from an approved and accredited program
Certificates and Licenses
Initial certification with the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
Licensed by the North Dakota State Board of Occupational Therapy Practice
Continuing Education/Training
Maintain licenses
Participate in ongoing training as required
Clearances
Criminal Justice Fingerprint/Background Clearance
FLSA Status
Non-Exempt
Salary Grade
SM
Open until filled
This position will work 36-40 hours per week and works 9 months per year.
Purpose Statement
The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) assists in providing occupational therapy services to students under the supervision of licensed therapists to support their educational goals.
Supervisory Relationship
Reports to: Assigned Registered Occupational Therapist(s) and Director of Special Education
Essential Functions
- Implement Therapy Services: Execute services as determined through the IEP process, including individual and group therapy activities.
- Data Collection: Assist in establishing, implementing, and collecting data on therapy goals and objectives.
- Environment Adaptation: Modify school and classroom environments, tools, and materials to improve student functioning and access to activities.
- Screening and Assessment: Participate in screening and assessment using standardized measures under the direction of supervising occupational therapists.
- Documentation: Provide necessary documentation and maintain files and records in cooperation with the occupational therapist.
- Therapeutic Activities: Implement therapeutic activities and instruct students, teachers, parents, and other involved persons on proper techniques and use of equipment.
- Equipment Maintenance: Ensure treatment equipment and supplies are in clean and proper working condition.
- Collaboration: Consult with therapists, teachers, instructional assistants, and families to review and revise students' therapy goals and develop plans for services.
- Professional Development: Attend meetings and workshops to convey and receive information and best practices for school OT delivery.
- Transportation: Transport necessary materials and equipment for therapy sessions.
- Assistive Devices: Troubleshoot and maintain assistive devices to ensure they are in proper working order.
- Confidentiality: Maintain confidentiality regarding student information.
- Adhere to School Policies: Follow school policies and procedures.
- Attendance: This position requires prompt and consistent attendance.
- Perform Other Duties: Undertake additional tasks as assigned to support the effective operation of the work unit.
Skills
- Proficient in basic computer skills.
- Capable of planning and executing therapy activities.
- Competent in maintaining accurate records.
- Highly organized with strong attention to detail.
- Understanding of occupational therapy principles and practices.
- Familiarity with IEP processes and educational goals for students with disabilities.
- Knowledge of assistive technology and therapeutic equipment.
- Adapt to various work environments and changing conditions.
- Communicate effectively with diverse groups.
- Handle physical demands, including lifting and managing students with disabilities.
- Maintain confidentiality and work as part of a team.
Work under direct supervision using standardized routines. Lead, guide, and coordinate others. Operate within a defined budget. Utilize resources from other work units as needed. Have a continual impact on the organization’s services.
Work Environment
Varies from well-equipped therapy rooms to hallways or other noisy, crowded areas due to space constraints. Requires the lifting and physical handling of students of all ages with multiple disabilities. Involves precautions regarding bodily fluids and physical handling during feeding, oral motor programming, and toileting.
Experience
Minimum of one year of experience with a background in pediatrics, school systems, assistive technology, or sensory integration is desirable.
Education
Associate degree in Occupational Therapy from an approved and accredited program
Certificates and Licenses
Initial certification with the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
Licensed by the North Dakota State Board of Occupational Therapy Practice
Continuing Education/Training
Maintain licenses
Participate in ongoing training as required
Clearances
Criminal Justice Fingerprint/Background Clearance
FLSA Status
Non-Exempt
Salary Grade
SM
Open until filled