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School Based Occupational Therapy Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Occupational Therapist

Cary, NC · On-site

$41 - $54/hr

Considerable knowledge of school-based occupational therapy practices; * Considerable knowledge of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) policy and procedure and section 504 policy ...

Occupational Therapist

Cary, NC

$41 - $54/hr

Considerable knowledge of school-based occupational therapy practices; * Considerable knowledge of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act ( IDEA) policy and procedure and section 504 policy ...

Occupational Therapist

Cary, NC

$41 - $54/hr

Considerable knowledge of school-based occupational therapy practices; * Considerable knowledge of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act ( IDEA) policy and procedure and section 504 policy ...

Occupational Therapist

Cary, NC

$41 - $54/hr

Considerable knowledge of school-based occupational therapy practices; * Considerable knowledge of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act ( IDEA) policy and procedure and section 504 policy ...

Occupational Therapist

Cary, NC

$41 - $54/hr

Considerable knowledge of school-based occupational therapy practices; Considerable knowledge of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act ( IDEA) policy and procedure and section 504 policy ...

Occupational Therapist

Cary, NC

$41 - $54/hr

Considerable knowledge of school-based occupational therapy practices; Considerable knowledge of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act ( IDEA) policy and procedure and section 504 policy ...

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School Based Occupational Therapy information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$7

$42

$60

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

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for school based occupational therapy in Raleigh, NC is $42.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.50 and $49.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a school-based occupational therapist do?

A school-based occupational therapist helps students develop or improve skills needed for daily activities, such as handwriting, motor coordination, and self-care. They assess students' needs, create intervention plans, and collaborate with teachers and parents to support academic and social success, often using specialized tools and therapy techniques within the school environment.

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?

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of School Based Occupational Therapy jobs in Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of School Based Occupational Therapy jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for School Based Occupational Therapy jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most School Based Occupational Therapy job openings:

Infographic showing various School Based Occupational Therapy job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, and 44% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $89,332 per year, or $42.9 per hour.

$41 - $54/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Wake County Public School System rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 36 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

521st of 631 rated elementary and secondary schools


Job description

Overview

POSITION TITLE (Oracle title)

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST             

 

WORKING TITLE

Occupational Therapist

 

SCHOOL/DEPARTMENT

Special Education Services (SES)

LOCATION

Crossroads II, Cary, NC

PAY GRADE

Occupational/Physical Therapy Salary Schedule

FLSA STATUS

Exempt

ELIGIBILITY FOR EMPLOYMENT CONTRACT

No

WORK WEEK SCHEDULE

Monday-Friday (occasional evenings and weekends)

 

POSITION PURPOSE:

Provides occupational therapy services in support of the federal civil rights law under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, section 504 (provides protection against discrimination for individuals with disabilities and general education students as part of the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) process). Ensures provided services align with the mission, vision, and core beliefs of Wake County School System (WCPSS).

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES (KSAs)

  • Considerable knowledge of the theory, principles and methods of occupational therapy;
  • Considerable knowledge of school-based occupational therapy practices;
  • Considerable knowledge of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) policy and procedure and section 504 policy and procedure;
  • Considerable knowledge of Common Core State Standards, Extended Common Core State Standards, and the WCPSS curriculum implementation regarding policies governing services for students with disabilities;
  • Considerable knowledge of Microsoft Office, specifically Microsoft Word, Excel, and Power Point; Google Apps;
  • Ability to adapt or design equipment for individual needs;
  • Ability to select and administer appropriate assessment and treatment activities;
  • Ability to communicate clearly and concisely both in oral and written form using a variety of communication techniques and tools to ensure the appropriate flow of information, collaborative efforts, and feedback;
  • Ability to guide the learning process toward achievement of established Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals;
  • Ability to motivate students;
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships, and build consensus with school administrators, teachers, support staff, central services staff, occupational therapists, and parents.

 

EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE

  • Successfully completed an accredited (by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education ((ACOTE)) Occupational Therapy educational curriculum and the required supervised fieldwork as determined by the National Board of Certification for Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) Board;
  • Three years of experience as an occupational therapist, preferably, in a public-school system is preferred; newly licensed graduates will be considered.

*Only postbaccalaureate Occupational Therapy degree programs will be eligible to receive or maintain ACOTE

accreditation status as of January 1, 2007*

**Postbaccalaureate: being, involving, or pursuing studies following the award of a baccalaureate degree**

CERTIFICATION AND LICENSE REQUIREMENTS

  • Initial certification by NBCOT;
  • Current license by North Carolina Board of Occupational Therapy (NCBOT);
  • Must hold and maintain a valid motor vehicle operator's license with a good driving record according to the State of NC requirements.

 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Master's degree in occupational therapy from an accredited occupational therapy program;
  • Experience in pediatric occupational therapy services.

 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Screens and evaluates children to determine needs for occupational therapy.
  • Identifies occupational therapy goals for the child's individualized family service plan or the IEP.
  • Provides occupational therapy interventions that enable children with disabilities to benefit from special education and to participate in the natural/general education environment.
  • Collaborates with team members on reinforcement of strategies and use of assistive devices for accessing the curriculum and activities of daily living.
  • Maintains communication with parents to discuss progress on goals and provide activities for home to reinforce skills.
  • Completes required documentation including evaluations, progress notes, individualized family service plans, IEPs, service logs, and quarterly progress reports in a timely manner.
  • Participates in staff meetings and professional development activities.
  • Participates in individualized family service plan and IEP meetings, team meetings, and parent conferences.
  • Performs other related duties, as assigned.
  •  

    WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

    This position operates in a professional office and has a noise level of mostly low to moderate. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, scanners, and copiers. The position, at times, must be able to come into direct contact with school system staff, students, parents, staff members of external funding agencies, and the community. Work is considered medium physical work, requiring the exertion of up to 50 pounds occasionally, and/or 25 pounds of frequently, and/or 20 pounds of constantly. The work frequently requires driving automotive equipment.

     

    EFFECTIVE DATE:  10/2023

    DISCLAIMER:  The above statements are intended to describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this position.  They are not intended to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required by the employees assigned to this position.  This description may be revised by HR and approved at any time.

    Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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    About Wake County Public Schools

    Sourced by ZipRecruiter

    Wake County Public Schools (WCPSS) is a well-regarded educational institution based in Cary, NC, United States. As the largest school district in North Carolina and the 15th largest in the U.S, it operates within the education industry providing primary and secondary education to students in Wake County. The district oversees a wide array of schools, including traditional calendars, year-round calendars, modified calendars, and magnets. Founded in 1976, the WCPSS has consistently strived to meet the individual needs of all students by providing a safe, supportive, and rigorous learning environment.

    Industry

    Education

    Company size

    201 - 500 Employees

    Headquarters location

    Cary, NC, US

    Year founded

    1976