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School Based Occupational Therapy Assistant Jobs

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School Based Occupational Therapy Assistant information

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

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for school based occupational therapy assistant 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 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.

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 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.
More about School Based Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for School Based Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs? Cities with the most School Based Occupational Therapy Assistant job openings:
What states have the most School Based Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for School Based Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various School Based Occupational Therapy Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $67,531 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

School-Based Occupational Therapist

Jefferson County Educational Service Center

Steubenville, OH • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Position: School-Based Occupational Therapist

Assignment Area: Jefferson County Educational Service Center


2023 Sunset Boulevard

Steubenville, Ohio 43952

Work Location: Anticipated Vacancy Edison Local and Indian Creek Local

Salary: Based upon education and experience on the salary schedule

Employment Date: Beginning as soon as possible and continuing through the 2026-2027 school year


Contract: 210-day contract


Qualifications and Requirements:

  • Candidates must possess experience or be able to demonstrate a vast knowledge and skill set to provide School-Based Occupational therapy as a direct or related service for students with disabilities, ages preschool through high school
  • Experience working with pre-school and school-age students
  • Master's degree in Occupational Therapy
  • Must be licensed as an Occupational Therapist in the State of Ohio
  • Must be well-versed in applicable state and federal law


Specific Duties:

  • Conduct occupational therapy assessments for evaluations and develop occupational therapy goals/ services for non-public students
  • Responds to requests for consultation on students or consults on specific program needs
  • Responds to evaluation referrals for students with suspected disabilities or re-evaluation of students with identified disabilities
  • Develop a present level of function and an Individual Educational Plan (IEP) with goals and objectives in conjunction with the IEP team
  • Implement service delivery to assigned students based on the goals, objectives, frequency/ duration, and placement as determined by the IEP team
  • Exhibits knowledge of clinical theory and its application as it relates to the student's educational needs
  • Work cooperatively with educational staff to identify areas where support is needed, including adaptation strategies
  • Engages in professional development and keeps abreast of new developments in the field.
  • Other duties assigned by the Superintendent or their designee.