Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) in Des Plaines, IL

Step into a dynamic, school-based setting as a Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant supporting students from Pre-K through transition ages (up to 22 years old). This full-time, contract opportunity is structured to offer exposure across multiple elementary, middle, and high schools within a prominent district near Des Plaines, IL. In this itinerant position, your expertise will play a direct role in fostering student independence and participation within educational settings.

Desired Qualifications & Experience:

• Active clinical license issued by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR)
• Active educator license from the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE)
• Previous school-based occupational therapy experience preferred
• Confidence working collaboratively across elementary, middle, and high school populations
• Ability to adapt to varying caseloads and travel between school sites during the workweek
• Must complete state-required fingerprinting as part of onboarding

Core Responsibilities:

• Deliver direct and consultative occupational therapy services under supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist
• Address a range of developmental, physical, and sensory challenges, supporting students’ educational progress
• Document session outcomes and communicate with interdisciplinary teams to tailor individualized education plans (IEPs)
• Work closely with teachers, families, and support staff to generalize skills across classroom and community settings
• Ensure compliance with district and state reporting, documentation, and service provision guidelines

This assignment offers a stable and rewarding path beginning as soon as possible and extending through early June of 2027, with workdays typically spanning 7 to 7.5 hours (35–37.5 hours per week). Schedules flex based on your assigned campuses, providing variety and meaningful engagement at each level.

Take the next step in your pediatric therapy career—apply today and help empower students’ growth and independence throughout the district. Your specialized skills are needed to make a difference!

Compensation for this position ranges from $25.06 to $45.06. Eligible candidates may also receive healthcare benefits, housing, and meals/incidentals. Full details of our healthcare benefits plan can be found here. This posting is open for 60 days after the posting date.

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