Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)
Position Summary
As a COTA at our Skilled Nursing Facility, you will play a vital role in delivering high-quality occupational therapy services under the supervision of licensed OTs. You will assist in evaluations, treatment planning, and execution of interventions to help residents regain or maintain functional independence in meaningful daily activities.
Key Responsibilities
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Provide direct therapeutic intervention to residents under the supervision of an OT, following established care plans.
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Assist with patient evaluations and contribute observations and data to inform OT assessments.
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Guide residents through therapeutic exercises and functional tasks (e.g., self-care, ADLs, transfers, mobility).
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Fabricate, modify, and adapt therapeutic and orthotic devices as needed.
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Document patient progress, treatment notes, and outcomes in accordance with facility policies and regulatory standards.
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Communicate effectively with interdisciplinary team (nurses, PTs, speech, nursing leadership) to coordinate care.
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Educate patients and their families/caregivers on therapeutic activity carry-over and safe strategies.
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Maintain compliance with all facility, state, and professional standards, including documentation, infection control, and safety.
- Participate in team meetings, in-service training, and continuing education opportunities.
Qualifications
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Graduation from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program.
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Certification (COTA) by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) (or equivalent).
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Valid license / registration as required by California.
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Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
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Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
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Ability to work effectively with elderly, medically complex, and cognitively impaired populations.
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Strong organizational and documentation skills.
- Commitment to working in a teaching and mentorship environment.
Preferred Qualifications
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Experience in skilled nursing, geriatric, or rehab settings.
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Previous exposure to neurological (e.g., stroke, TBI), orthopedic, or long-term care populations.
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Familiarity with restorative nursing principles.
- Experience in adaptive equipment assessment and fabrication.
Working Conditions
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Full-time role, with possible weekend coverage / flexible scheduling.
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Expected to travel within facility units to provide therapy (e.g., rooms, common areas).
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May require lifting, transferring, or assisting patients per facility policy.
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PPE and infection control protocols in place.