Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)

Job Description: Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)

Department: Rehabilitation Services

Reports To: Rehabilitation Manager

Position Summary

The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) works under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist (OT) to support the implementation of individualized treatment plans designed to improve residents’ functional abilities, independence, and quality of life. The COTA assists residents with therapeutic activities and exercises in accordance with established plans of care, applicable federal and state regulations, professional standards, and organizational policies.

The responsibilities outlined below describe the general nature and level of work performed and are not intended to represent an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Conduct resident screenings and gather relevant information within the scope of practice permitted by applicable state laws and regulations, without independently interpreting findings when prohibited.
• Assist residents with therapeutic activities, exercises, and functional tasks outlined in individualized treatment plans developed in collaboration with the supervising Occupational Therapist.
• Implement assigned interventions to support improvements in activities of daily living (ADLs), functional mobility, coordination, strength, balance, and safety.
• Observe residents during treatment activities to ensure proper technique, encourage participation, and promote safe completion of prescribed exercises.
• Monitor residents’ responses to treatment and communicate changes in functional status, performance, or condition to the supervising Occupational Therapist.
• Document treatment activities, resident participation, progress, and other required clinical information accurately and promptly.
• Provide education and training to residents, families, and caregivers regarding therapeutic activities, adaptive techniques, safety precautions, and strategies outlined in the plan of care.
• Assist with maintaining an organized, clean, and properly stocked rehabilitation environment.
• Support administrative functions as assigned, including appointment scheduling, telephone coverage, supply inventory, ordering supplies, and completion of insurance forms or other required paperwork.
• Complete assessments, treatment records, progress notes, and other documentation in accordance with company policies and applicable state and federal regulations.
• Maintain resident confidentiality and follow infection prevention procedures, safety standards, and organizational policies.
• Collaborate with the supervising Occupational Therapist and interdisciplinary healthcare team to promote coordinated, resident-centered care.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.
  
  

Minimum Qualifications

• Associate degree from an Occupational Therapy Assistant program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), or an applicable predecessor accrediting body.
• Current Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) credential and state licensure or authorization to practice, as required by applicable law.
• Knowledge of occupational therapy treatment principles, therapeutic activities, resident safety, and rehabilitation practices.
• Strong communication, organizational, documentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively with residents, families, caregivers, and interdisciplinary healthcare professionals.
  
  

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities. The COTA works under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist and may provide guidance to residents and caregivers regarding assigned therapeutic activities.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

The physical demands and environmental conditions described below are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

• Work Schedule: Shift work may be required based on facility operations and resident care needs.
• Physical Activity: Frequently requires standing, walking, using hands and fingers, reaching with hands and arms, feeling, seeing, speaking, and hearing.
• Resident Assistance: May require assisting residents with positioning, mobility, and transfers in accordance with established safety procedures and approved equipment use.
• Environmental Exposure: May occasionally involve exposure to blood or other bodily fluids, fumes, airborne particles, and potentially hazardous or caustic substances.
• Safety Compliance: Must follow infection prevention practices, personal protective equipment requirements, safe resident-handling procedures, and applicable workplace safety guidelines.
  
  

Professional Expectations

The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant is expected to demonstrate professionalism, compassion, respect for resident dignity, and a commitment to quality rehabilitation services. The employee must maintain confidentiality, follow ethical and professional standards, work within the authorized scope of practice, and contribute to a supportive environment that promotes resident independence and positive rehabilitation outcomes.