Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

Position Title: Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
Department: Rehabilitation Services
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (Hourly)

Position Summary

The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) provides skilled occupational therapy services under the direction and clinical supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist (OTR/L). The COTA implements individualized treatment plans designed to help patients and residents achieve their highest level of independence, function, and quality of life. The setting includes short-term rehabilitation, outpatient therapy and long-term care.

Responsibilities include assisting with therapeutic interventions, activities of daily living (ADLs), therapeutic exercise, range of motion (ROM), functional mobility, and other treatment activities as outlined in the plan of care. The COTA monitors patient progress, communicates changes in condition to the supervising Occupational Therapist, and documents treatment in accordance with professional standards, regulatory requirements, and facility policies.

The COTA provides age-appropriate, patient-centered care while promoting a safe, compassionate, and respectful environment. As a representative of Cuba Memorial Hospital (CMH), the COTA demonstrates professionalism and promotes CMH positively within the organization and throughout the community.

Essential Responsibilities

· Implement occupational therapy treatment plans established by the supervising Occupational Therapist.

· Assist patients and residents in improving independence with activities of daily living (ADLs), instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), mobility, strength, coordination, balance, cognition, and functional performance.

· Conduct therapeutic activities, exercises, neuromuscular re-education, and range of motion programs as directed.

· Observe, monitor, and report patient responses, progress, and changes in condition to the supervising Occupational Therapist.

· Accurately document treatments, patient progress, and communication in accordance with regulatory and facility requirements.

· Maintain a safe treatment environment and utilize appropriate infection prevention and safety practices.

· Collaborate effectively with interdisciplinary team members to promote optimal patient outcomes.

· Educate patients, families, and caregivers regarding treatment techniques, home exercise programs, and safety recommendations as directed by the Occupational Therapist.

· Participate in quality improvement initiatives and departmental meetings.

· Maintain current knowledge of evidence-based occupational therapy practices and regulatory standards.

· Promote CMH in a positive and professional manner within the facility and the community.

· Perform other duties as assigned.

Education, Training, and Experience

· Associate degree from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program.

· Current New York State licensure/registration as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant.

· Experience in skilled nursing, outpatient, or hospital rehabilitation is preferred but not required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

· Knowledge of occupational therapy principles, treatment techniques, and documentation standards.

· Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

· Ability to work collaboratively within an interdisciplinary healthcare team.

· Excellent organizational and time management skills.

· Ability to adapt to changing patient needs and priorities.

· Commitment to providing compassionate, patient-centered care.

· Basic computer skills and proficiency with electronic medical records preferred.

Physical Requirements

· Ability to frequently stand, walk, bend, kneel, squat, reach, lift, carry, push, and pull.

· Ability to safely transfer and assist patients using proper body mechanics and assistive equipment.

· Ability to lift up to 50 pounds independently and more with assistance or mechanical lifting devices.

· Ability to perform repetitive upper extremity movements and fine motor tasks.

· Ability to tolerate prolonged periods of standing and walking throughout the workday.

· Ability to respond appropriately in emergency situations.

Supervisory Responsibilities

May provide direction and oversight to Rehabilitation Aides, Therapy Technicians, and students as assigned.

Clinical Supervision

Licensed Occupational Therapist (OTR/L)

Reports To

Director of Rehabilitation Services

Pay: $35.00 - $40.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule

Work Location: In person

Salary : $35 - $40