Job Description

Full-Time School-Based Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)

Make a Difference in a School‐Based Setting with PDS!

Pediatric Developmental Services (PDS) is seeking a dedicated and qualified Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) for a full-time school-based role.

If you're passionate about helping children succeed in their academic and everyday routines and you're looking for meaningful, impactful work that supports a strong work-life balance this opportunity is for you.

Why Choose a School-Based Role with PDS?

As a school-based COTA with PDS, you'll work directly within a K–12 educational setting, supporting students' participation and functional skills across the school day, under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist (OTR/L). You'll also benefit from:

• A predictable weekday schedule that aligns with school hours
• Summers off and built-in holidays
• The ability to build lasting relationships with students, teachers, and school teams
• Collaborative, interdisciplinary support through IEP teams and district resources
• Optional - Compensation spread over 12 months, ensuring consistent pay throughout the year, even during school breaks
• Professional Development & Career Growth opportunities to mentor, join leadership teams, or specialize in areas like bilingual services, AAC, or early childhood
• Built-In Support for New and Experienced Clinicians - Access to mentorship, ongoing CEUs, and experienced colleagues
• Schools are ideal for New Grads or seasoned COTAs looking for a stable, enriching environment

What We Offer:

• Health, Dental & Vision Insurance with company contribution
• Retirement Account with Company Matching
• Unlimited CEUs
• Annual Materials Stipend
• Licensure/Certification Reimbursement
• Supportive internal team of SLPs, OTs, PTs, and school-based professionals

Qualifications:

• Associate degree in Occupational Therapy Assistant studies from an accredited program.
• Current state Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) license/certification (or eligibility for licensure; PDS will assist if needed).
• NBCOT certification as a COTA.
• Previous experience in a pediatric, school, or related setting preferred (but new grads are welcome).
• Strong interpersonal, communication and collaborative skills.
• Commitment to student-centered practice, teamwork and professional growth.

Your Impact:

As a PDS school-based COTA, you will:

• Deliver high-quality, individualized occupational therapy services, under the supervision of a licensed OTR/L, that enable students to fully participate in school activities and students' occupations including academic, play/leisure, self-care, transition/work skills, and social participation.
• Assist with evaluations, contribute to progress monitoring and reporting, and support implementation of IEP goals/short-term objectives for students with accommodations, supports or services, in collaboration with the supervising OTR/L.
• Collaborate with teachers, administrators, therapists, families and school teams to integrate OT strategies into natural school routines.
• Support classroom staff with adaptations/modifications of environment, curriculum and tasks to reduce barriers to student participation and functional performance.
• Participate in IEP meetings, progress monitoring, and support positive school culture and student success.

Ready to Join Us?

If you're a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant who is passionate about supporting students where they learn and grow every day and you're excited about the possibilities of a school-based role with PDS, this is the perfect opportunity. Apply now via our quick, mobile-friendly application.