At a Glance
- Tasks: Support scholars in achieving their goals through tailored occupational therapy activities.
- Company: Join Grand Rapids Public Schools, dedicated to empowering every scholar's potential.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive work environment with opportunities for professional development and community impact.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while working in a diverse and inclusive setting.
- Qualifications: Must have COTA certification and relevant education; experience with disabilities is a plus.
- Other info: Flexible roles available, including 1:1 support and classroom assistance.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
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Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant, Kent
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Client:
Michigan School Public Relations Association
Location:
Kent, United Kingdom
Job Category:
Other
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EU work permit required:
Yes
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Job Reference:
80ab70527f41
Job Views:
9
Posted:
14.07.2025
Expiry Date:
28.08.2025
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Job Description:
Toperform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions herein described. Since every duty associated with this position may not be described herein, employees may be required to perform duties not specifically spelled out in the job description, but which may be reasonably considered to be incidental in the performing of their duties just as though they were actually written out in this job description.
GRPS MISSION: Our mission is to ensure that all scholars are educated, self-directed and productive members of society.
CERTIFIED OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT (COTA)
Department: Special Education
Bargaining Unit: Union of Grand Rapids Education Support Professional (UGRESP)
Wage: According to the collective bargaining agreement (starting rate is fixed and non-negotiable)
JOB SUMMARY
The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) will work under the supervision of a Registered Occupational Therapist (OTR). The COTA will work with one or more scholars carrying out scholar goals, instructional objectives and supports as outlined in the Individualized Education Plan (IEP). This may include but is not limited to providing 1:1 single scholar support, working as a building program support position, or working in an itinerant position.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Essential functions under the Americans with Disabilities Act may include any of the following duties, knowledge, and skills. This list is illustrative only and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by employees in this position. Regular on time and in person attendance is an essential function of this job. Other essential functions may include, but are not limited to the following:
- Assist in providing Occupational Therapy in the following areas: Departmental evaluations on assigned caseload.Instruction of teachers/paraprofessionals/non-certified staff who assist with classroom groups.Writing of instructional objectives for assigned scholars, to be approved by supervising OTR.Maintenance of records regarding progress on instructional objectives.Writing of clinic reports and other medically related information for assigned caseload, as assigned by supervising OTR.Organizing “job skills” for assigned classrooms.Keeping work area and atmosphere of classroom equipment and/or instructional materials.Modifying and maintaining equipment and/or instructional materials.Making adaptive equipment as needed.
- Attend team meetings, meetings, staff meetings, and appropriate in-services and training.
- Perform other tasks as requested.
- Follow policies and procedures of the building(s) to which he/she is assigned, of the Special Education Division, and of the Grand Rapids Public Schools.
- Interact with co-workers, administration, scholars, parents and the community in positive, supportive and cooperative ways.
- Provide inclusive instructional support to a classroom of multiple scholars or as additional adult support for scholar success, as needed.
- Provide support in a specialized building program or special education classroom (i.e., in a moderate cognitive impairment program, an autism spectrum disorder program, and emotional impairment program).
- Comply with federal, state, and district laws, rules, and policies
- Other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required Education and Experience:
- Must have A) completed at least two (2) years of study at an institution of higher education (60 Credits); or
- obtained an associate’s or higher degree; or
- achieved a passing score on an MDE approved assessment.
- COTA certification by the American Occupational Therapy Association.
- Licensed as a COTA by the State of Michigan.
Preferred Qualification:
- Experience with individuals with disabilities (including children) preferred.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, and consistently reliable attendance and punctuality.
- Ability to work independently.
- Ability to deal with scholars, parents & staff in a tactful and courteous manner.
- Ability to work as a member of a team.
- Ability to work in a diverse environment.
ADA REQUIREMENTS
The physical demands, work environment factors, and mental functions described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The work is medium work which requires exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 30 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to stand, walk, sit, use hands to finger, handle, or feel, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl, talk, hear (in a quiet or noisy environment). Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision and ability to adjust/focus.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
MENTAL FUNCTIONS
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to compare, analyze, communicate both orally and in writing, copy, coordinate, instruct, compute, synthesize, evaluate, use interpersonal skills, compile, and negotiate.
Non-Discrimination
The Grand Rapids Public Schools will not discriminateagainst any person based on race, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and expression, height, weight, color, religion, national origin, age, marital status, pregnancy, disability, veteran, or military status.
Americans with Disabilities Act accommodations: Assistance with the application process may be requested through the Human Resources Department at (616) 819-2022or
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Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant employer: Michigan School Public Relations Association
Contact Detail:
Michigan School Public Relations Association Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the field of occupational therapy. Attend local workshops or seminars related to special education and occupational therapy, as these can provide valuable connections and insights into the job market.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and how they are implemented in schools. Understanding this process will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to supporting scholars effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Consider volunteering or shadowing a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant in a school setting. This hands-on experience will enhance your understanding of the role and make you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in occupational therapy. Subscribing to relevant journals or joining professional associations can provide you with knowledge that sets you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the responsibilities of a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant. Emphasise any previous work with individuals with disabilities, as well as your COTA certification.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses the job description. Mention your passion for helping scholars and how your background makes you a suitable candidate for this role. Be sure to include examples of your teamwork and communication skills.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly list your educational qualifications, including your COTA certification and any relevant coursework or training. If you have experience working in special education settings, make sure to detail this as well.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in this field.
How to prepare for a job interview at Michigan School Public Relations Association
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant. Familiarise yourself with the essential functions listed in the job description, such as providing 1:1 support and writing instructional objectives.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since strong written and verbal communication skills are crucial for this role, prepare to demonstrate these during your interview. Think of examples where you've effectively communicated with scholars, parents, or colleagues.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess how you would handle specific situations, especially those involving individuals with disabilities. Practice responses that highlight your problem-solving abilities and your approach to inclusive support.
✨Highlight Teamwork Experience
This position requires working as part of a team. Be ready to discuss your previous experiences collaborating with others, particularly in educational or therapeutic settings, and how you contributed to a positive team environment.