What are the responsibilities and job description for the Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) Instructor position at ND State College of Science?
TYPE OF RECRUITMENT: External
POSITION: Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) Instructor
LOCATION: NDSCS – Wahpeton, North Dakota
TYPE OF APPOINTMENT: Full-time, 9-month, benefited position
WHO MAY BE CONSIDERED: Anyone eligible to work in the United States
JOB SUMMARY: The Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) Faculty member is responsible for providing high-quality instruction, mentorship, and support to OTA students in accordance with ACOTE standards and program goals. The ideal candidate is a collaborative team player who is passionate about the field of occupational therapy, enjoys sharing clinical experiences, and is dedicated to shaping the next generation of practitioners. Candidates should have experience in mental health practice and hold a BA/BS degree or currently in progress (doesn’t need to be a BA/BS in OT).
WORK ENVIROMENT AND EXPECTATIONS
- Commitment to student-centered education and inclusive teaching practices.
- Flexibility to teach day, hybrid, or online courses as needed.
- Active participation in ongoing professional development and program improvement.
- Passion for sharing the value of occupational therapy and inspiring future OTA professionals.
Minimum Requirements
Must support the mission, vision, and values of NDSCS
- Occupational Therapy Assistant (Licensed/eligible for license in North Dakota)
- Clinical experience including mental health related experience
- Bachelor’s degree (BA/BS) or currently in progress. Doesn’t need to be a BA/BS in OT.
- Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively as part of a collaborative team.
Demonstrated computer skills, including LMS use and electronic documentation systems
Ability to communicate effectively, work collaboratively, and manage multiple priorities
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior teaching experience in higher education or clinical instruction (fieldwork supervision, in-service training, or student mentoring).
- Familiarity with ACOTE standards and OTA curriculum design.
Experience in classroom, lab, or clinical teaching in higher education
Experience with curriculum development, assessment, or accreditation processes
North Dakota Career and Technical Education (CTE) Certification or willingness to obtain
Additional Information
SALARY: Starting at $59,163, commensurate with education and experience
BENEFITS: NDSCS offers a comprehensive benefits package with an estimated value of over $25,000. The package includes single or family health insurance coverage with premiums paid for by the College – with an effective date for new employees the first of the month following the date of hire. Other benefits include basic life insurance, annual and sick leave, retirement plan, tuition waiver, spouse/dependent tuition discount, and employee assistance program. Optional benefits include life, dental, and vision insurance, a flexible spending account, and supplemental retirement plans.
DATE AVAILABLE: August 2026.
SCREENING BEGINS: Immediately – for full consideration, applications should be received as soon as possible.
BACKGROUND CHECK: NDSCS requires a successful background check for the selected candidate prior to an official offer of the position.
HOW YOU WILL BE EVALUATED: To be considered, interested candidates must submit an NDSCS employment application. A resume and cover letter may also be required in certain positions. Official transcripts must be made available upon request. Only applicants who appear best qualified based on this review will be invited for a personal interview. The submission of all required materials by the screening date is the responsibility of the applicant.
VETERANS’ PREFERENCE: This position is subject to North Dakota Veteran's Preference requirements and follows NDUS Policy 601.0 Veterans' Preference. An NBG 22 or DD-214 must be provided if claiming veterans' preference. If claiming disabled status, a current letter of disability from the VA dated within the last 12 months must also be submitted.
OPEN RECORDS: Pursuant to N.D.C.C. Section 44-04-18, except as otherwise specifically provided by law, all records of NDSCS are public records, open and accessible for inspection during regular office hours. NDSCS shall comply with public records laws and will not disclose information that is considered exempt under the public records laws.
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION: NDSCS is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, please contact NDSCS Human Resources at 701-671-2903 or NDSCS.HR@ndscs.edu
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY: NDSCS does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, gender identity/expression, genetic information, marital status, national or ethnic original, mental or physical disability, public assistance status, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, familial or parental status, status as a U.S. veteran/service member, or participation in lawful activity off the employer’s premises during nonworking hours which is not in direct conflict with the essential business related interests of the employer.
Salary : $59,163