What are the responsibilities and job description for the Occupational Therapist (OT) or Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) (.5 FTE) position at Hilltown Cooperative Charter Public School (MA)?
Hilltown Cooperative Charter Public School is a K–8 public charter school founded in 1995. Our mission is to engage students in experiential, hands-on learning that integrates the arts and interdisciplinary studies, fosters critical thinking skills, and nurtures a lifelong joy of learning. We strive to sustain a cooperative, close-knit community of students, staff, families, and local partners who guide and support the educational program. At the heart of our work is a commitment to cultivating children’s individual voices and a shared respect for one another, our community, and the world around us.
Our mission informs every aspect of our teaching and learning. We are currently seeking a part-time (.5 FTE) Occupational Therapist or Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) who shares this vision and is excited to contribute to a vibrant, child-centered, and collaborative school community.
Position Overview
The Occupational Therapist or COTA at Hilltown works as part of our Student Support team to support the development of fine motor, sensory, self-regulation, and functional life skills for students across grades K–8. The therapist or assistant collaborates closely with classroom teachers, special educators, related service providers, and families to help ensure that students with diverse learning profiles can fully access the school’s curriculum and community.
This position includes a combination of direct service, consultation, collaboration, and participation in student support planning processes.
We are looking for a practitioner who brings warmth, flexibility, creativity, and strong communication skills to their work with students and colleagues. A successful candidate will value inclusive practices, relationship-building, and developmentally responsive support for children with a wide range of strengths and needs.
Minimum Qualifications
For Occupational Therapists:
Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy
Current Massachusetts license to practice as an Occupational Therapist
Experience working with children in educational or pediatric settings
For COTAs:
Associate’s degree from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program
Current Massachusetts license to practice as a COTA
Ability to work under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist
Preferred Qualifications
2 years of experience in a school-based role
Familiarity with IDEA, IEP processes, and school-based documentation
Experience supporting students with a variety of learning, emotional, sensory, and physical needs
Experience collaborating within inclusive or integrated educational settings
Primary Responsibilities
Provide direct and consultative occupational therapy services to students with IEPs, consistent with service delivery grids
Conduct or assist with evaluations as appropriate, under the supervision of a licensed OT (COTA only)
Collaborate with classroom teachers, special educators, and support staff to promote student participation and access within classroom routines and activities
Develop and/or implement strategies, accommodations, and modifications that support students’ functional performance in school settings
Participate in IEP team meetings and contribute to the development of goals, accommodations, and service plans
Maintain timely and accurate documentation of services, progress monitoring, and student records
Communicate regularly with families to support strong home-school collaboration
Support sensory and motor skill development through individual, small group, classroom-based, and consultative interventions
Consult with staff regarding strategies to support students’ regulation, motor development, and access to learning environments
Additional Expectations
Participate in faculty meetings, student support meetings, and relevant professional development opportunities
Collaborate with related service providers, administrators, and staff to promote inclusive practices across the school community
Maintain appropriate licensure, certifications, and compliance with all regulatory requirements
Support the school’s collaborative and community-centered culture
General Expectations
Meet routine responsibilities consistently
Manage time effectively to accomplish multiple tasks and meet deadlines
Maintain strong attendance and punctuality
Work independently with appropriate supervision and support
Maintain cooperative relationships with students, families, and colleagues
Communicate effectively both orally and in writing
Support the school’s mission, values, and educational philosophy