Occupational Therapist

Purpose: The Occupational Therapist serves to evaluate students’ functional physical and developmental levels and determine the impact on educational performance. The role includes designing and implementing individualized, evidence-based interventions to support student goals; identifying environmental and architectural barriers; and recommending strategies to improve accessibility, program development, and appropriate student placement. The Occupational Therapist also provides supervision and direction to Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs) and support staff, with the overarching purpose of maximizing students’ functional independence and participation within the school setting.                                                                                 

Essential Functions:                                    

• Administer occupational therapy evaluations, procedures, and therapeutic modalities across multiple service sites to support student achievement of IEP goals and program objectives.
• Collaborate with parents, teachers, administrators, physicians, and multidisciplinary team members to coordinate services, communicate progress, resolve concerns, and ensure compliance with district, state, and federal regulations.
• Coordinate with community-based therapists and healthcare providers to align services and promote continuity of care.
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans, interventions, instructional strategies, and evaluations to remediate motor skill deficits, support sensory processing, strengthen life skills, and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Supervise and direct Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs) and other assigned staff to ensure effective service delivery and achievement of student outcomes.
• Facilitate, Lead, and participate in IEP meetings and evaluation conferences to present findings, interpret data, identify barriers, and recommend appropriate services.
• Integrate occupational therapy services within the K–12 educational environment by providing direct intervention, consultation, and training to staff and families to support student access and progress in the general curriculum.
• Interpret and apply medical reports and assessment data to inform appropriate treatment planning and intervention strategies.
• Maintain and document accurate records, including evaluations, progress reports, service logs, billing documentation, and treatment plans to ensure compliance and continuity of services.
• Manage and adapt specialized materials, assistive technology, equipment, and environmental supports to create safe, accessible, and effective learning environments.
• Participate actively in professional meetings, workshops, and interdisciplinary teams to exchange information and strengthen collaborative practice.
• Conduct site visits, including home-based services when required, to deliver therapy and support student access to educational programming.
• Pursue ongoing professional development to maintain licensure, strengthen clinical expertise, and apply evidence-based practices.
• Research and evaluate current intervention strategies, assessment tools, and community resources to determine effective approaches for meeting students’ functional goals.
• Respond promptly and professionally to inquiries from students, families, and staff, providing information, guidance, and referrals as appropriate.
• Demonstrate effective communication skills, emotional awareness, active listening, patience, empathy, professionalism, and a growth mindset in all interactions.
• Cultivate and maintain positive, respectful, and professional relationships with students and families.
• Uphold ethical standards and maintain confidentiality in accordance with professional practice guidelines and legal requirements.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support district and program needs.

Qualifications:

Essential:

• Possession of a Washington State OT license
• Eligibility for Washington State ESA Certification as an Occupational Therapist
• Ability to establish relationships with students, parents, and the community.
• Willingness to implement and support the program.
• Willingness to be involved with school reform activities aimed at ensuring student success.

Preferred

• At least two years of successful OT service provision in the school setting
• Additional training in pediatrics and neurodevelopmental therapy
• Ability to speak Spanish
• Experience working with students from diverse backgrounds

Clearances

• Criminal Justice Fingerprint/Background Clearance
• WA State Sexual Misconduct Disclosure Release

RESPONSIBLE TO AND EVALUATION BY: Executive Director of Special Education

BENEFITS: 

• Medical, dental, vision, retirement, sick leave, and personal leave

Additional Paid Days based on Assignment and CBA

• Up to ten (10) extra TRI-days
• Up to six (6) extra paperwork days

The following employees have been designated to handle questions and complaints of alleged discrimination: Civil Rights Coordinator: Ryan Greene, 360-785-3537, [email protected]. Title IX Coordinator: Angela Campbell, 360-785-3516, [email protected], Section 504 Coordinator: Ashlie Auckland, 360-785-3582, [email protected], Gender Inclusive Schools Coordinator: Michelle Jeffries, 360-785-3582, [email protected]. Address: 401 NE 1st St, PO Box 128, Winlock WA 98596.