Position Overview The PAAL Program is a mission-driven, specialized school committed to fostering the development and independence of students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) through tailored educational and therapeutic interventions. We are seeking a skilled Sensory Integrative Occupational Therapist whose expertise in sensory integration and passion for supporting students with autism will help create empowering, functional, and adaptive experiences for each student. This role requires a compassionate individual who understands the complex sensory needs of adults and adolescents with autism and can apply a collaborative, evidence-based approach to maximize students' participation in academic and daily living activities. Key Responsibilities Conduct in-depth sensory integration evaluations, including clinical observations and administration of standardized tools such as the Sensory Integration and Praxis Tests (SIPT), Sensory Processing Measure (SPM), or other relevant instruments. Analyze sensory, motor, and praxis functioning in relation to student behavior, learning style, communication, and self-regulation. Use assessment data to develop detailed reports to guide educational planning and family understanding. Design, implement, and monitor student-specific intervention plans that incorporate sensory integration strategies, therapeutic activities, and adaptive techniques to support developmental milestones, executive functioning, emotional regulation, and social participation. Deliver direct, play-based, and meaningful therapy sessions in sensory classrooms and other school settings, integrating motor skills development with sensory modulation and tactile defensiveness management. Provide consultation and co-treatment opportunities within classrooms and small groups to embed sensory supports that enable students to access the curriculum and engage with peers effectively. Collaborate in multi-disciplinary team meetings, including teachers, speech-language pathologists, behavior specialists, psychologists, and administrators, to create coordinated intervention plans aligned with Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals and school-wide objectives. Serve as sensory integration resource for families and caregivers by facilitating parent training sessions, workshops, and direct coaching on home-based sensory strategies, including environmental modifications and sensory diets tailored to each individual's sensory profile. Maintain meticulous and timely documentation of assessments, goals, intervention sessions, progress notes, and communication logs according to legal, regulatory, and organizational guidelines. Advocate for the implementation of sensory-friendly environments throughout the school by recommending adaptive equipment, classroom arrangement modifications, and sensory break schedules. Engage in continuous professional development by attending relevant seminars, training, and conferences focused on autism spectrum disorders, sensory integration, and occupational therapy advancements. Contribute to program evaluation and development initiatives by providing feedback on therapy outcomes and helping to design innovative sensory support protocols within the PAAL Program. Qualifications Master's or Doctorate degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited institution. Current licensure (or eligibility) to practice Occupational Therapy in the state of Pennsylvania. Certification or advanced training in Sensory Integration (e.g., SIPT certification) is highly desirable. Minimum of 3 years clinical experience in pediatric occupational therapy with a strong focus on sensory integration, ideally within an autism-specific educational or clinical setting. Thorough knowledge of sensory processing disorders, neurodevelopmental conditions, and interdisciplinary therapeutic practices. Strong clinical reasoning, observation, and documentation skills to develop effective, individualized treatment plans. Excellent communication and collaboration skills with the ability to work empathetically with children, families, and diverse professional teams. Ability to manage multiple students and caseload priorities in a dynamic school environment while maintaining high-quality care. Preferred Skills In-depth understanding of Ayres Sensory Integration® framework and other sensory processing models. Experience with assistive technology and adaptive devices to enhance functional participation during therapy and in academic settings. Ability to foster self-advocacy and promote independence for students with autism. Skilled in delivering sensory-based interventions that support social-emotional development and executive functioning. Cultural competence and sensitivity in working with diverse families, emphasizing inclusivity and respect.

Salary & Benefits Full-Time Position:

Competitive salary based on experience, certifications, and qualifications, ranging from $75,000 to $95,000 annually. Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance. Paid time off (vacation, sick days, holidays). Support for continuing education, certifications, and professional memberships.

Part-Time Position:

Competitive hourly rate of $40 to $65, depending on qualifications and experience. Flexible scheduling to support work-life balance and personal needs. Prorated or limited benefits based on hours worked. Work Environment Therapy delivered primarily within dedicated sensory integration adapted classrooms, and quiet therapeutic spaces within the PAAL Program school facility. Access to a wide variety of specialized equipment such as swings, therapy balls, tactile toys, balance boards, compression vests, noise-cancelling headphones, and other sensory tools. Immersive, supportive team culture focused on student-centered, strengths-based approaches to education and therapy. Opportunities for involvement in program innovation, cross-disciplinary research initiatives, and community outreach to enhance sensory integration services and autism education.

Pay:

$75,000.00 - $95,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off

Work Location:

In person