Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant

Fowler Elementary District

District Wide - Phoenix, Arizona This job is also posted in Fowler

Job Details

Job ID:

5938042

Application Deadline:

Posted until filled

Posted:

Sep 23, 2026 6:00 AM (UTC)

Starting Date:

Immediately

Job Description

Fowler Elementary School District

Job Title:

CERTIFIED OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT

Classification:

State Certified

Salary:

Full Time, Benefited

Description:

The Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA) provides occupational therapy treatment sessions and therapeutic support

to students under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist

(OT). The COTA supports eligible students enrolled in special education programs to achieve functional, developmental, and educational goals, fostering participation in classroom and school activities.

Qualifications:

AA degree or higher in an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program

License in Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA/L) issued by the Arizona Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners

Additional certification with the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (COTA) is preferred

Valid Arizona Identity Verified Prints (IVP) Fingerprint Clearance Card (AZ

IVP FPCC

).

Valid Arizona Driver's License

Certification in CPR & First Aid from an accepted agency (ARC/AHA)

Experience with diverse student populations

Job related experience or clinical fieldwork in occupational therapy.

Pediatric experience is preferred

Experience working with school aged children for a year or more is preferred.

Knowledge of physical therapy evaluation and treatment of children

Knowledge of child development

Knowledge of State and Federal guidelines regarding physical therapy and students with disabilities

Knowledge of District policies, procedures, organizational structure and school requirements

Strong knowledge of the English language including reading, writing and oral communication with extensive skills in spelling, punctuation and grammar

Knowledge of Spanish including reading, writing and oral communication is preferred

Strong communication and interpersonal skills when working with students, parents, staff and administration

Ability to comprehend and perform functions from written and verbal instructions

Experience as a Physical Therapist Assistant working with children in an educational setting is preferred

Alternatives to the above qualifications as the Governing Board or the Superintendent may deem appropriate

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Conduct screenings, assessments, and evaluations to identify student needs, interpret findings, and present results to the MET/IEP Team, parents/guardians, and relevant service providers

Participate in the Child Find process and collaborate with school teams to ensure appropriate evaluation and identification of students requiring services

Develop, implement, and monitor individualized IEPs, therapy plans, and intervention strategies to address identified motor, sensory, and functional needs

Provide direct occupational therapy services to students as indicated on IEPs, adapting interventions based on student progress and observed outcomes

Recommend, procure, and design therapeutic equipment, materials, and specialized tools to support student participation, learning, and independence

Train, consult with, and guide teachers, classroom aides, COTAs (if assigned), and other school staff on effective strategies, accommodations, and use of therapy tools.

Collaborate and communicate with parents, school staff, and external agencies regarding student needs, progress, and instructional modifications or accommodations

Monitor student response to interventions, modify plans as necessary, and regularly evaluate and report on student progress

Maintain accurate, thorough, and ongoing records, service logs, and required documentation in compliance with the Arizona Occupational Therapy Practice Act, Medicaid requirements, and district, state, and federal policies

Provide information, support, and education to families regarding student needs, progress, and therapy strategies

Serve as a consultant and resource to school staff, providing in-service education on topics such as motor planning, coordination, sensory processing, and adaptive strategies

Establish and maintain professional, positive relationships with students, school personnel, families, community members, and vendors

Communicate effectively in both oral and written forms with staff, parents/guardians, administrators, physicians, and other professionals

Uphold high ethical standards, maintain confidentiality, and demonstrate professional conduct in all interactions

Participate in professional growth and development activities to remain current with best practices, research, and innovations in occupational therapy

Additional job-related duties as assigned

Length of Employment:

Nine (9) months

Days worked will be determined by the school calendar

Reports to: Director of Exceptional Student Services

Evaluation:

Performance to be evaluated in accordance with Board Policy GDO

Position Type:

Full-Time

Salary:

$44,793.60 to $69,274 Per Year

Job Requirements

Citizenship, residency or work visa required