An Occupational Therapist helps patients with injuries, illnesses, and disabilities recover, improve, or develop skills needed for everyday activities. Assists people with mobility impairments to move easily around their homes; develops school and workplace settings that are accessible for individuals with physical or mental disabilities. May specialize in certain types of impairments or certain categories of patients.
2026-2027 Onward Education is partnering with a school district in Lake County, Illinois to hire a dedicated and compassionate School Occupational Therapist (OT) for the 2026-2027 school year. The Occupational Therapist will work with students to develop and improve the physical, sensory, cognitive, and functional skills they need to successfully participate in the school environment. The OT will collaborate closely with students, families, teachers, and school staff to support educational access and student independence. About the Role Unlike clinical occupational therapy, school-based OT focuses specifically on skills that support a student's educational participation and success . The Occupational Therapist may provide services outlined in a student's Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan , helping students access the curriculum and participate more fully in academic, social, and school activities. Examples of OT Interventions Support students with handwriting difficulties through instruction on proper grip, posture, and fine motor techniques. Develop sensory strategies or sensory break plans for students who experience self-regulation challenges. Adapt classroom tools and materials for students with physical or motor needs. Recommend adaptive equipment such as pencil grips, slant boards, specialized seating, or adaptive scissors. Support students with autism in developing functional, social, and play skills. Help students develop greater independence with school-based self-care activities when appropriate.
Key Responsibilities:
Skill Development Support students in developing fine motor skills, including handwriting, cutting, and tool use. Address gross motor skills such as balance, posture, coordination, and motor planning as they relate to school participation. Develop individualized strategies to improve students' functional skills and independence. Classroom Participation Help students successfully use classroom tools, materials, technology, and equipment. Recommend adaptations to classroom environments and materials based on individual student needs. Promote independence with functional school routines and self-care tasks when necessary. Sensory Support Address sensory processing needs that may affect a student's ability to focus, self-regulate, or participate in learning. Develop practical sensory strategies and interventions for students and staff. Help create supportive and sensory-friendly classroom environments. Assistive Technology & Adaptations Evaluate and recommend adaptive equipment and classroom supports. Train students and staff on the appropriate use of adaptive tools and equipment. Suggest modifications that allow students to participate more independently in classroom activities. Collaboration Collaborate with teachers, parents, special education staff, and other related service providers. Participate in IEP meetings and contribute to the development of appropriate goals and accommodations. Provide staff with strategies and recommendations for supporting individual student needs. Assessment & Documentation Conduct occupational therapy evaluations to identify students' functional needs within the school setting. Develop and implement therapy goals aligned with students' educational needs. Monitor student progress and maintain accurate documentation. Provide services in accordance with students' IEPs and applicable school requirements.
Qualifications:
Current Occupational Therapist license/credential required. School-based or pediatric experience preferred. Experience working with students with disabilities is preferred. Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills. Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary school team. Commitment to helping students develop independence and successfully participate in their educational environment. Why Join Us? This is an excellent opportunity for an Occupational Therapist who enjoys working directly with students and collaborating with educators to make a meaningful impact in a school setting. You'll have the opportunity to support students' development, independence, and access to education while working as part of a collaborative school team.
Location:
Lake County, Illinois Position:
School Occupational Therapist School Year:
2026-2027
Employer Details:
Onward Search is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to a policy of non-discrimination in an employment with regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status or any other classification protected by federal, state and local laws and ordinances. Candidates must be at least 18 years old to be considered for employment.
EOE/M/F/D/V/SO.
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire. Onward Search is unable to support 1099 / Corp-to-Corp or Independent Contractor arrangements at this time. All freelancers will be paid as W2 employees. Onward Search offers medical, dental, vision benefits, as well as a 401k program, for all eligible full-time temporary assignments. Onward Search is a drug-free workplace. Onward Search is a nationwide staffing agency and talent solutions provider specializing in creative, marketing, and technology. Our clients are continuously turning to us to fill their open positions. Therefore, there is no application deadline for this position, as we are seeking candidates for this type of role across all our clients on an ongoing basis.
