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School Based Occupational Therapy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Soliant

School-Based Occupational Therapist

Bakersfield, CA

$43.86 - $63.86/hr

Master's degree in Occupational Therapy, active Occupational Therapist license and 1+ year of ... School-Based Occupational Therapist (OT) Employment Type: Full-time, Contract Job Location: Long ...

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School Based Occupational Therapy information

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How much do school based occupational therapy jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for school based occupational therapy in the United States is $44.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.41 and $50.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between School Based Occupational Therapy vs Pediatric Occupational Therapy?

AspectSchool Based Occupational TherapyPediatric Occupational Therapy
Work EnvironmentSchools and educational settingsClinics, hospitals, or homes
CertificationsOccupational Therapist (OT) license, possibly school certificationOT license, pediatric specialization often preferred
Employer & IndustrySchool districts, educational agenciesHealthcare facilities, private practices
FocusSupporting children's educational and functional skills in schoolSupporting children's developmental, motor, and sensory needs in various settings

School Based Occupational Therapy and Pediatric Occupational Therapy both require OT licensure and focus on helping children develop essential skills. The main difference lies in the work environment and specific focus: school-based therapists work within educational settings to support academic success, while pediatric therapists often work in clinics or homes addressing broader developmental needs.

How does a school-based occupational therapist typically collaborate with teachers and other educational staff?

School-based occupational therapists work closely with teachers, special education staff, and other related service providers to support students’ functional participation in the classroom. Collaboration often involves attending team meetings, sharing strategies for classroom modifications, and providing training or resources to staff. Therapists may also co-develop individualized education program (IEP) goals and consult regularly to monitor student progress. This team-based approach ensures that therapy is integrated into daily routines, promoting student success across school environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a School-Based Occupational Therapist, and why are they important?

To excel as a School-Based Occupational Therapist, you need a master's degree in occupational therapy, national certification (NBCOT), and relevant state licensure. Familiarity with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), assistive technology, and data collection software is common in this role. Strong communication, creativity, and patience are vital soft skills for collaborating with educators, students, and families. These competencies ensure effective support of students' developmental needs and academic success within diverse school environments.

What is school-based occupational therapy?

School-based occupational therapy is a specialized service provided within educational settings to support students who have difficulties that impact their ability to participate fully in school activities. Occupational therapists work with students, teachers, and families to address challenges related to fine motor skills, sensory processing, self-care, and classroom participation. The goal is to help students develop the skills they need to succeed academically and socially by adapting tasks or the environment as needed. Therapy services are often delivered through individualized education programs (IEPs) or 504 plans. Occupational therapists may provide direct intervention, consultation, or assistive technology recommendations.
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School Based Occupational Therapy jobs near you

School Based Occupational Therapist

Transformation Therapy Group

Harper Woods, MI • On-site

$48 - $52/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

The school-based occupational therapist is responsible for evaluating, planning, and implementing occupational therapy services for students with disabilities or special needs within the school environment. The primary goal is to help students develop, improve, and maintain the skills necessary for successful participation in academic, social, and functional activities.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Conduct comprehensive occupational therapy evaluations to assess students.

2. Develop individualized intervention plans that target the student's specific needs and goals, addressing areas such as fine and gross motor skills, visual-motor integration, self-care, etc.

3. Provide direct occupational therapy services, including individual and group therapy sessions, to help students improve their functional abilities and achieve their goals.

4. Collaborate with teachers, administrators, parents, and other professionals to ensure a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to supporting students' educational and developmental needs.

5. Provide consultation, training, and education to school staff, parents, and other team members to help them understand and support the student's occupational therapy needs.

6. Document student progress, maintain accurate and up-to-date records, and complete required reports and paperwork in a timely manner.

7. Participate in the development and implementation of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), 504 plans, and other educational plans.

8. Supervise/oversee COTA's.

9. Stay current with evidence-based best practices, research, and trends in school-based occupational therapy, and implement appropriate strategies and interventions.

10. Collaborate with community providers, agencies, and resources to ensure a seamless continuum of care for students and their families.

11. Maintain professional development, continuing education, and licensing/certification requirements.

Qualifications:

- Current license as an occupational therapist in the state of employment

- Experience working with children and adolescents, preferably in a school-based setting

- Strong knowledge of child development, educational practices, and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) preferred.

- Excellent communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills

- Proficient in documentation, data analysis, and report writing

- Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Work Location: In person