Certified Occupation Therapist Assistant (COTA)

Certified Occupation Therapist Assistant

Payette Special Services | 2026–2027 School Year

Location: Payette Special Services
Position Type: Classified
Work Schedule: approximately 20 hrs. per week/days to be negotiated
Reports To: Director of Special Services

Position Summary

Applicant must possess current certification/licensure as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant and be eligible to work in Idaho schools under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist. The successful candidate will support students with fine motor, sensory, adaptive, and functional skill development in accordance with student IEPs and occupational therapy plans. Applicant must pass a background check and demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively with students, families, and school staff.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Duties may vary by assignment and student needs and may include, but are not limited to:

• Provide occupational therapy support services to students under the direction and supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist (OT)
• Implement therapy activities and treatment plans designed to improve fine motor, sensory, self-help, adaptive, and functional skills
• Assist students in accessing educational environments and curriculum through therapeutic supports and accommodations
• Support students with sensory regulation, motor coordination, handwriting, visual motor integration, and adaptive equipment use
• Document therapy sessions, student progress, and service delivery information accurately and in a timely manner
• Assist the Occupational Therapist with screenings, observations, data collection, and preparation of materials
• Collaborate with teachers, paraprofessionals, special education staff, administrators, and families regarding student supports and accommodations
• Support implementation of IEP goals and accommodations related to occupational therapy services
• Maintain therapy equipment, materials, and student workspaces in a safe and organized condition
• Assist with student positioning, transfers, mobility, and physical support needs as required
• Attend staff meetings, IEP meetings, trainings, and professional development activities as assigned
• Maintain confidentiality regarding students, staff, and district information in accordance with state and federal laws
• Follow district policies, procedures, safety guidelines, and professional standards
• Perform other duties as assigned by the supervising Occupational Therapist, Special Education Director, or administration

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Associate degree from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program
• Current Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) certification
• Current Idaho licensure or eligibility for Idaho licensure
• Ability to work under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist
• Knowledge of child development, sensory integration, adaptive equipment, and school-based therapy supports
• Ability to implement therapy activities and interventions as directed by the Occupational Therapist
• Ability to assist students with fine motor, sensory, self-help, and functional skills
• Ability to maintain accurate therapy documentation and service logs
• Ability to follow confidentiality requirements regarding student records and services
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to collaborate effectively with teachers, special education staff, administrators, and families
• Ability to work positively with students with disabilities and diverse educational needs
• Ability to lift, position, transfer, or assist students as needed
• Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, kneel, and move throughout school environments
• Ability to operate therapy-related equipment and educational technology
• Maintain professionalism and confidentiality at all times
• Pass a criminal history background check

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this position, the employee may be required to stand, walk, sit, bend, or kneel for extended periods and assist with student supervision or mobility consistent with assigned duties.

Reasonable accommodations will be provided, in accordance with applicable state and federal law, to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Compensation

Compensation dependent upon education and experience. Position includes applicable district benefits and work calendar consistent with district assignment.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Payette School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law. Position open until filled. All recommendations for hire are tentative offers. Employment is contingent upon board approval, and successful completion of a federal background check and drug-free workplace pre-employment screening (if required for the position). Any applicant convicted of any of the felony crimes enumerated in Section 33-1208, Idaho Code may not be hired, and any applicant convicted of any felony offense listed in Section 33-1208(2), Idaho Code shall not be hired. Regular attendance is an essential function of this position.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should apply through the Payette School District employment portal.

Legal Reference:
I.C. § 33-512 Governance of Schools
I.C. § 33-513 Professional Personnel
I.C. § 33-1210 Information on Past Job Performance
I.C. § 33-130 Licensure and Discipline of Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants
IDAPA 24.06.01 Rules for Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants
IDEA – Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act