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School Based Occupational Therapy Assistant Jobs in Rochester, NY

School Based Therapist

Rochester, NY · On-site

$54K - $60K/yr

School Based Therapist Position Summary: The therapist will provide assessments and psychotherapy ... therapy; co-occurring substance abuse and mental health treatment; psychiatric evaluation; and ...

School Based Therapist

Rochester, NY · On-site

$54K - $60K/yr

School Based Therapist Position Summary: The therapist will provide assessments and psychotherapy ... therapy; co-occurring substance abuse and mental health treatment; psychiatric evaluation; and ...

School Based Therapist

Rochester, NY · On-site

$54K - $60K/yr

School Based Therapist Position Summary: The therapist will provide assessments and psychotherapy ... therapy; co-occurring substance abuse and mental health treatment; psychiatric evaluation; and ...

School Based Therapist

Rochester, NY · On-site

$54K - $60K/yr

School Based Therapist Position Summary: The therapist will provide assessments and psychotherapy ... therapy; co-occurring substance abuse and mental health treatment; psychiatric evaluation; and ...

Showing results 21-40

School Based Occupational Therapy Assistant information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$17

$32

$46

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

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for school based occupational therapy assistant in Rochester, NY is $32.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.02 and $36.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a school based occupational therapy assistant?

A School Based Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) works under the supervision of a licensed occupational therapist to help students develop or improve the skills needed for daily living and academic success within a school setting. They assist students with activities related to fine motor skills, self-care, sensory processing, and classroom participation. COTAs collaborate with teachers and other school staff to create and implement strategies that support students' learning and independence. Their goal is to help students overcome barriers so they can fully participate in school activities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a school based occupational therapy assistant?

To thrive as a School Based Occupational Therapy Assistant, you need an associate degree from an accredited occupational therapy assistant program and state licensure, along with a strong understanding of pediatric development and interventions. Familiarity with assistive technology, documentation software, and Individualized Education Program (IEP) systems is often required. Strong communication, patience, and teamwork skills are essential for working with children, educators, and therapists. These skills ensure effective support for students’ functional independence and successful collaboration within school settings.

How does a school based occupational therapy assistant typically collaborate with teachers and other educational staff?

School Based Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs) work closely with teachers, special education staff, and school therapists to support students’ functional participation in academic and social activities. They often attend team meetings, share observations, and help integrate occupational therapy strategies into classroom routines. Collaboration may involve co-developing accommodations, modifying classroom materials, and providing staff with training or resources to ensure consistency in supporting students' needs. This teamwork is essential for promoting student success and maintaining effective, individualized interventions.

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

AspectSchool Based Occupational Therapy AssistantOccupational Therapy Assistant
CredentialsCPR certification, state-specific OTA license, possibly additional school district trainingCPR certification, state-specific OTA license
Work EnvironmentSchools, classrooms, therapy roomsHospitals, clinics, outpatient facilities
Employer & IndustrySchool districts, educational institutionsHealthcare facilities, outpatient clinics
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a School Based Occupational Therapy Assistant and an Occupational Therapy Assistant lies in their work environment and specific training. School Based OTAs work primarily in educational settings supporting students, while OTAs in healthcare settings assist patients in hospitals or clinics. Both roles require similar certifications, but the work context varies significantly.

Do schools hire school based occupational therapy assistants?

Yes, many schools hire school-based occupational therapy assistants to support students with disabilities. These assistants work under the supervision of licensed occupational therapists and often require relevant certifications or training. They typically assist with therapy sessions, classroom activities, and student assessments within the school environment.

What are popular job titles related to School Based Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in Rochester, NY?

For School Based Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching School Based Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in Rochester, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for School Based Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for School Based Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most School Based Occupational Therapy Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various School Based Occupational Therapy Assistant job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,631 per year, or $32 per hour.

Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)- $5,000 Sign-On Bonus-Rochester

Sigma Rehab

Rochester, NY • On-site

$28.25 - $37.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

We are currently offering a $5,000 Sign-On Bonus for this position.

Sigma Health Rehab is actively seeking a Full-time Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA/COTA) to work in a Skilled Nursing Facility.

COTA Requirements Include:

  • Graduate of an accredited OTA Program

  • Current New York State OTA License

  • Experience in a skilled nursing or geriatric care setting is preferred, but new graduates with relevant experience

Key Responsibilities Include:

  • Select therapy activities that follow the plan of care set out by the supervising occupational therapist

  • Assist residents in carrying out daily activities.

  • Monitor residents' performance in therapy activities, provide encouragement and document on residents as needed.

  • Teach residents how to use special equipment to assist with daily function.

  • collaborate with the OT to establish a rehabilitation plan.

  • Maintains a cooperative relationship among healthcare team members

  • Current evidence-based practices consistent with the standards and recommendations of the American Occupational Therapy Association

 What we offer our OTA/COTAs:

·       Highly competitive compensation

·       Comprehensive and affordable benefits package including medical insurance, vision, dental and 401k Retirement Plan

·       Generous PTO package- start accruing from day 1

·       401(k) Retirement Plan

·       Professional Development: Continuing education unit (CEU)reimbursement and advanced training

·       Mentorship and clinical support for all therapists along with state of the art technology

·       Flexible schedules, weekly paychecks, an Employee Referral Program and more

Who we are:

Sigma Health Rehab is premier provider of innovative rehabilitation services. At Sigma Health Rehab, we believe in the power of rehabilitation to transform lives. Our dedicated team of professionals are passionate about helping individuals overcome challenges, reach their goals, and regain their independence.
 

Rochester Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing, located in Rochester, New York is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) who is currently licensed in New York or is a graduate from an approved Occupational Therapy program and is actively working toward obtaining licensure. Be a part of our experienced team of rehabilitation professionals who are committed to helping each patient regain independence and achieve their rehab goals in our state-of- the art rehab gym. Whether you are a seasoned professional or at the beginning of your career, join our team and utilize your talents as an Occupational Therapy Assistant (COAT)to improve the lives of others.