1

School Based Occupational Therapy Assistant Jobs in Spring Grove, VA

next page

Showing results 1-20

School Based Occupational Therapy Assistant information

See Spring Grove, VA salary details

$17

$32

$46

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

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for school based occupational therapy assistant in Spring Grove, VA is $32.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.07 and $36.11 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 cities near Spring Grove, VA are hiring for School Based Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs?

Cities near Spring Grove, VA with the most School Based Occupational Therapy Assistant job openings:

School-Based Occupational Therapist

Pediatric Developmental Services

Sussex, VA • On-site

$45 - $60/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Full-Time School-Based Occupational Therapist (OTR/L)
Make a Difference in a School-Based Setting with PDS!
Pediatric Developmental Services (PDS) is seeking a dedicated and qualified Occupational Therapist (OTR/L) for a full-time school-based role.
If you're passionate about helping children succeed in their academic and everyday routines and you're looking for meaningful, impactful work that supports a strong work-life balance this opportunity is for you.
Why Choose a School-Based Role with PDS? As a school-based OT with PDS, you'll work directly within a K-12 educational setting, supporting students' participation and functional skills across the school day. You'll also benefit from:
  • A predictable weekday schedule that aligns with school hours
  • Summers off and built-in holidays
  • The ability to build lasting relationships with students, teachers, and school teams
  • Collaborative, interdisciplinary support through IEP teams and district resources
  • Optional - Compensation spread over 12 months, ensuring consistent pay throughout the year, even during school breaks
  • Professional Development & Career Growth opportunities to mentor, join leadership teams, or specialize in areas like bilingual services, AAC, or early childhood.
  • Built-In Support for New and Experienced Clinicians- Access to mentorship, ongoing CEUs, and experienced colleagues.
  • Schools are ideal for New Grads or seasoned OTs looking for a stable enriching environment

What We Offer:
  • Health, Dental & Vision Insurance with company contribution
  • Retirement Account with Company Matching
  • Unlimited CEUs
  • Annual Materials Stipend
  • Licensure Reimbursement
  • Supportive internal team of SLPs, OTs, PTs, and school-based professionals

Qualifications:
  • Master's or higher degree in Occupational Therapy (OTR/L) from an accredited program.
  • Current state Occupational Therapist license (or eligibility for licensure; PDS will assist if needed).
  • Previous experience in a pediatric, school, or related setting preferred (but new grads are welcome).
  • Strong interpersonal, communication and collaborative skills.
  • Commitment to student-centered practice, teamwork and professional growth.

Your Impact: As a PDS school-based OT, you will:
  • Deliver high-quality, individualized occupational therapy services that enable students to fully participate in school activities and students' occupations including academic, play/leisure, self-care, transition/work skills, and social participation.
  • Conduct evaluations, write reports, monitor progress and establish IEP goals/short-term objectives for students with accommodations, supports or services.
  • Collaborate with teachers, administrators, therapists, families and school teams to integrate OT strategies into natural school routines.
  • Consult with classroom staff to support adaptations/modifications of environment, curriculum and tasks to reduce barriers to student participation and functional performance.
  • Participate in IEP meetings, progress monitoring, and support positive school culture and student success.

Ready to Join Us? If you're an Occupational Therapist who is passionate about supporting students where they learn and grow every day and you're excited about the possibilities of a school-based role with PDS, this is the perfect opportunity. Apply now via our quick, mobile-friendly application.

Pediatric Developmental Services logo

About Pediatric Developmental Services

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pediatric Developmental Services (PDS) provides the nation's public school districts, charter schools, and communities at large with highly qualified pediatric therapists, including speech, occupational, and physical therapists. At PDS, we want to make a difference in the lives of children. From finding and training the best pediatric therapists to partnering them with the right schools and clinics in need, PDS supports win-win initiatives for all. From speech-language therapy to school psychology, our children deserve the best care possible, and at PDS, we make that happen. For every therapist that works for us, we offer real support and a tailored mentorship program . We know that they are essential in our mission to make a difference in the lives of children. This is why we also offer competitive compensation and great benefits .

Industry

Education

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Pikesville, MD, US

Year founded

2010