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School Based Cota Jobs (NOW HIRING)

School-Based Occupational Therapist (OT) | Parker Area Make a lasting impact in students' lives ... Collaborate closely with educators, families, and a full-time COTA * Support students in achieving ...

School COTA

Walterboro, SC ยท On-site

$24.25 - $32.25/hr

Work within a school-based therapy team American Traveler Job ID #P-739718. Pay package is based on ... COTA - School About American Traveler With over 25 years of experience, American Traveler has ...

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How much do school based cota jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for school based cota in the United States is $32.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.40 and $36.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by school based COTAs, and how can they be addressed?

School Based Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs) often encounter challenges such as managing high caseloads, adapting therapy plans to diverse student needs, and collaborating effectively with teachers and families. To address these challenges, COTAs can prioritize strong communication with the educational team, stay organized with detailed documentation, and seek ongoing professional development to keep up with best practices. Proactively participating in team meetings and advocating for manageable workloads also helps ensure effective support for students.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a school based COTA?

To thrive as a School Based COTA, you need an associate degree from an accredited occupational therapy assistant program, a state license, and a solid understanding of pediatric occupational therapy principles. Familiarity with documentation software, assistive technology, and individualized education program (IEP) systems is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and collaboration skills help build rapport with students, families, and interdisciplinary school teams. These competencies are crucial for delivering effective interventions that support student participation and success in the educational environment.

Do schools hire school based Cotas?

School-based Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs) are often employed by schools to support students with disabilities, working under the supervision of licensed occupational therapists. They typically assist with therapy sessions, implement treatment plans, and help students develop daily living and motor skills within the school environment. Employment opportunities depend on school district needs and certification requirements, which may include state licensure or certification.

What is a school based COTA?

A School Based COTA, or Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant, is a professional who works under the supervision of a licensed occupational therapist to support students with disabilities in a school setting. They help implement therapy plans designed to improve students' fine motor skills, sensory processing, and ability to participate in everyday school activities. The COTA collaborates with teachers, parents, and other school staff to promote student independence and academic success. Their work is essential in helping students access their education and reach their developmental goals.

What is the difference between School Based Cota vs Pediatric Cota?

AspectSchool Based CotaPediatric Cota
CredentialsOccupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) certification, state licensureOccupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) certification, state licensure
Work EnvironmentSchools, educational settings, classroomsPediatric clinics, hospitals, outpatient settings
Employer & IndustrySchool districts, educational agenciesHospitals, outpatient clinics, pediatric practices
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both School Based Cotas and Pediatric Cotas hold similar credentials and work as occupational therapy assistants. The main difference lies in their work environment: School Based Cotas primarily work in educational settings, while Pediatric Cotas typically work in clinics or hospitals. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path within pediatric occupational therapy.

More about School Based Cota jobs
What cities are hiring for School Based Cota jobs? Cities with the most School Based Cota job openings:
What states have the most School Based Cota jobs? States with the most job openings for School Based Cota jobs include:
What job categories do people searching School Based Cota jobs look for? The top searched job categories for School Based Cota jobs are:
Infographic showing various School Based Cota job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,531 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

School-Based Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA)

Strides Therapy and Educational Services

Warrenton, VA โ€ข On-site

$28.50 - $38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Job Title: School-Based Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA)

Company: Strides Therapy & Educational Services

About Us:

Strides Therapy & Educational Services is a leading local provider of contract therapy services dedicated to enhancing the educational experience of students in schools across Maryland. We are seeking a skilled and passionate Occupational Therapist to join our team of professionals, working collaboratively to support students' fine motor, sensory, and functional development within educational settings.

Position Overview:

As a School-Based Occupational Therapist Assistant in Virginia, you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact on students' lives by addressing their unique needs, enhancing their participation in school activities, and helping them achieve their educational goals. Your expertise will be crucial in promoting students' overall well-being and success in the school environment.

Location: Warrenton, VA
Additional Details: In-Person Role
Requirements: Current Virginia Occupational Therapy Assistant license issued by the Virginia Board of Medicine.
Expected Hours per week: 7.5 hours a day; 37.5

Responsibilities:

Under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist, the COTA will:

Provide direct occupational therapy services to students as outlined in Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

Implement treatment plans developed by the supervising Occupational Therapist.

Assist students in developing fine motor, visual motor, sensory processing, self-care, handwriting, and school participation skills.

Collect data and document student progress toward IEP goals.

Maintain accurate and timely service documentation in accordance with district, state, and federal guidelines.

Collaborate with teachers, special education staff, related service providers, and families to support student success.

Assist with implementing classroom accommodations and adaptive strategies.

Prepare therapy materials and maintain therapy equipment.

Participate in IEP meetings and team meetings as requested by the supervising OT.

Maintain compliance with all school district policies, IDEA regulations, HIPAA/FERPA requirements, and professional standards.

Travel between school sites as assigned, if applicable.

Qualifications:

Associate's degree from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program.

Current state COTA license (or eligibility for licensure).

NBCOT certification required.

Previous pediatric or school-based experience preferred but not required.

Strong communication, organizational, and collaboration skills.

Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary educational team.

Benefits:

  • Health Benefits on Day 1 (Medical, Dental, Vision) with 50% employer contribution
  • 401k with match and immediate vesting, 100% match for the first 3% and 50% for 4 % and 5% (also a part-time benefit)
  • Up to 40 hours PTO/sick time (also a part-time benefit)
  • Professional liability insurance (also a part-time benefit)
  • Cancer insurance (also a part-time benefit)
  • Pet insurance (also a part-time benefit)
  • Life insurance (also a part-time benefit)
  • Catastrophe medical (also a part-time benefit)

Please contact Dana Morgan for more information and additional details. Email: danamorgan@stridesspeechtherapy.com / Phone: 443-247-5517