CERTIFIED OCC THERAPIST ASSISTANT(COTA)

Description:

Join our Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) team and help families support their child's development during the most important years of life. We are seeking a compassionate and motivated Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to work with infants and toddlers (birth to age 3) who have developmental delays, disabilities, or medical conditions impacting functional play, sensory processing, and daily routines. This position provides hands-on developmental support and caregiver coaching in the child's natural environment - homes, childcare centers, and community settings - under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist. As an ECI COTA, you will help young children build foundational skills for independence, participation, and engagement. Using play-based approaches and everyday routines, you will guide families in strategies that promote motor skills, sensory regulation, feeding readiness, self-help skills, and overall functional development. If you enjoy family partnership, community-based work, and creative problem-solving, this role is an excellent fit.

Requirements:

Key Responsibilities Direct Services & Intervention Implement therapeutic activities designed by the supervising OT to support fine motor development, sensory processing, self-regulation, and participation in routines. Use play-based, developmentally appropriate activities to improve functional skills. Assist with positioning, adaptive equipment, and environmental modifications. Caregiver Coaching & Support Teach families how to embed therapeutic strategies into daily routines such as feeding, dressing, playtime, bath time, and transitions. Offer practical tools to support sensory needs, self-regulation, and functional independence. Provide supportive communication that respects each family's strengths, priorities, and culture. Team Collaboration Collaborate with a multidisciplinary ECI team including OTs, PTs, STs, EISs, service coordinators, and other specialists. Participate in team meetings and contribute observations for the Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). Maintain regular communication with the supervising OT about progress, needs, and recommended adjustments. Documentation & Compliance Complete all required documentation in compliance with Texas Health and Human Services (HHSC) ECI standards and agency policies. Document caregiver coaching, intervention strategies, and child progress. Uphold all ethical and professional requirements related to early intervention. Natural Environment Service Delivery Provide services directly in homes, childcare centers, and community settings. Adapt strategies to align with the child's everyday routines and family priorities. Support families during the transition process to Part B services at age 3 when appropriate. Qualifications Graduate of an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program. Current Texas licensure as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant. Pediatric and/or infant-toddler experience preferred (ECI experience a plus). Valid driver's license and reliable transportation for community-based visits. Strong communication, observation, and family engagement skills. Ability to work independently with consistent communication to the supervising OT. What We Offer Flexible scheduling Mileage reimbursement Paid training in the Texas ECI model and family-centered service delivery Opportunities for CEUs and professional development Supportive leadership and collaborative team environment About Texas ECI Texas Early Childhood Intervention supports children birth to age 3 with developmental delays and disabilities. The ECI model emphasizes family-centered , routine-based , and natural-environment interventions, empowering families to support development during daily life.