School-Based Occupational Therapist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of education, the importance of school-based occupational therapists has never been more pronounced.

As educational strategies evolve, the demand for skilled professionals who can integrate, enhance, and secure the learning environment for children with varying needs continues to grow.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a school-based occupational therapist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the intricate workings of school-based occupational therapy,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable school-based occupational therapist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

School-Based Occupational Therapist Duties and Responsibilities

School-Based Occupational Therapists (OTs) support students with disabilities or developmental challenges to participate fully in school and social situations.

Their aim is to help students improve their ability to perform tasks in their daily school activities.

The duties and responsibilities of a School-Based Occupational Therapist include:

• Evaluating the child’s abilities and needs in relation to performing functional tasks in the school environment
• Working closely with teachers, parents, and other school staff to identify and address issues affecting a student’s performance in school
• Designing and implementing individualized therapy programs to improve a student’s ability to learn, play, and socialize
• Providing direct therapy to students either individually or in small groups to improve gross and fine motor skills, visual perceptual skills, cognitive skills, and sensory processing skills
• Adapting classroom activities, assignments, and materials to support the participation of students with disabilities
• Advising on modifications to the school environment, as necessary, to make it more accessible for students with disabilities
• Consulting with teachers on how to implement a student’s occupational therapy plan in the classroom
• Documenting and reporting on a student’s progress in meeting therapy goals
• Participating in multidisciplinary team meetings for the development, review, and revision of a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP)

 

School-Based Occupational Therapist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated and compassionate School-Based Occupational Therapist to join our team.

In this role, you will help students enhance their sensory, motor, and academic skills to achieve their best in the school environment.

You will be responsible for evaluating students’ abilities, developing tailored therapy plans, and implementing therapeutic interventions to help students succeed acadically and socially.

Ideal candidates are resourceful, patient, and have a deep understanding of child development and educational systems.

 

Responsibilities

• Evaluate students’ skills and abilities to determine their needs.
• Develop individualized therapy plans based on students’ unique needs and abilities.
• Provide therapeutic interventions to help students improve their motor, sensory, and academic skills.
• Collaborate with educators, parents, and other school staff to ensure integrated care.
• Monitor and document students’ progress and adjust therapy plans as needed.
• Provide recommendations for adaptive equipment and training for school staff as necessary.
• Participate in IEP (Individualized Education Program) meetings and provide input on students’ needs and progress.
• Adhere to professional standards as outlined by protocols, rules and regulations.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as an Occupational Therapist, preferably in a school setting.
• Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy.
• Valid license to practice occupational therapy.
• Excellent knowledge of principles and practices of occupational therapy.
• Strong understanding of child development and educational systems.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Patience and ability to manage stressful situations.
• Ability to maintain detailed and accurate therapy records.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: School-Based Occupational Therapist
• Work Environment: School setting. Some travel may be required for continuing education or training purposes.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Special Education or School Principal.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $55,000 minimum to $85,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a School-Based Occupational Therapist Do?

School-Based Occupational Therapists work in educational settings where they assist students to overcome physical, mental, or cognitive impairments that might hinder their academic and social development.

They work closely with teachers, parents, and other school staff to assess students’ needs and develop individualized education plans (IEPs) that focus on improving their fine and gross motor skills, sensory processing abilities, and cognitive functions.

Their job involves creating and implementing therapeutic intervention strategies.

These might include helping students with handwriting and other classroom tasks, promoting independence in daily living activities, such as eating and dressing, or providing adaptive strategies for those with sensory processing difficulties.

They also play a significant role in supporting students’ social and emotional growth by teaching them coping strategies and social skills.

In addition to direct intervention, School-Based Occupational Therapists also recommend and provide training in the use of adaptive equipment and technology that can assist students in their learning process.

Furthermore, they regularly monitor students’ progress, reassess their needs, and adjust their intervention plans accordingly.

Their ultimate goal is to ensure that every student can participate in school activities to the fullest extent possible.

 

School-Based Occupational Therapist Qualifications and Skills

A competent School-Based Occupational Therapist should have the skills and qualifications that align with the unique requirements of working in an educational setting, such as:

• Excellent knowledge of child development and specific education-associated therapy practices for children with special needs.
• Strong understanding of different disabilities and learning difficulties, and the ability to devise targeted therapeutic strategies.
• High level of patience, empathy, and compassion to connect with children and encourage their participation in therapeutic activities.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills to effectively liaise with parents, teachers, and other professionals involved in the child’s care.
• Problem-solving skills to adapt therapy plans based on each child’s unique needs and progress.
• Knowledge of laws and regulations related to school-based therapy to ensure that all activities conform to legal and ethical standards.
• Ability to handle stressful situations with calmness and professionalism, especially when dealing with behavioral issues.
• Physical stamina and dexterity to assist and demonstrate various therapeutic activities.
• Documentation and record-keeping skills for maintaining detailed notes on students’ progress and therapy sessions.

 

School-Based Occupational Therapist Experience Requirements

The path to becoming a School-Based Occupational Therapist often begins with a bachelor’s degree in a field related to occupational therapy, such as psychology or biology.

Following this, an accredited master’s degree in Occupational Therapy is required.

During their master’s program, students gain substantial practical experience through supervised fieldwork, which lasts for about 24 weeks.

This offers the opportunity to work with children in a school setting and apply learned theories and techniques in a real-world environment.

For entry-level positions, new graduates who have completed their clinical fieldwork in a school setting may be considered qualified.

These candidates typically have up to 1 year of experience.

Candidates with 2 to 4 years of experience often have had more extensive work with diverse student populations and have developed their skills in creating and implementing specialized treatment plans.

They may also have experience in working with other members of an educational team, such as teachers, counselors, and special education professionals.

Those with over 5 years of experience may have additional qualifications such as advanced certifications or specializations in pediatric occupational therapy.

They are often prepared to take on leadership roles, including mentoring less experienced therapists, leading professional development workshops, and coordinating therapy programs across multiple schools.

 

School-Based Occupational Therapist Education and Training Requirements

School-Based Occupational Therapists typically need a master’s degree in occupational therapy from an accredited program.

In addition to the degree, they must also successfully pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam to obtain certification and licensure to practice.

Many states require School-Based Occupational Therapists to be licensed, which typically requires the completion of an accredited occupational therapy program, completion of all fieldwork requirements, and passing scores on the NBCOT exam.

Furthermore, some states require School-Based Occupational Therapists to complete continuing education to maintain their licensure.

This can be achieved through various workshops, seminars, and classes related to the field of occupational therapy.

In addition to educational requirements, School-Based Occupational Therapists should also possess strong interpersonal skills, patience, creativity, and a deep understanding of the unique needs and challenges of working with children in a school setting.

Some therapists may also choose to earn specialty certifications in areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or physical rehabilitation to improve their skills and knowledge in specific areas.

It is also important to note that this job role requires practical experience which is usually gained during supervised fieldwork as part of an accredited educational program.

 

School-Based Occupational Therapist Salary Expectations

A School-Based Occupational Therapist can expect to earn an average salary of $74,117 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can fluctuate depending on factors like experience, additional certifications, location, and the specific school district’s budget.

 

School-Based Occupational Therapist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a School-Based Occupational Therapist need?

A School-Based Occupational Therapist should have strong communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with students, parents, and school staff.

They need to have a solid understanding of child development and specific knowledge about various disabilities and conditions.

Additionally, they should be creative and innovative to adapt therapy techniques to meet each student’s individual needs.

 

What are the educational requirements for a School-Based Occupational Therapist?

A School-Based Occupational Therapist typically requires a master’s degree in occupational therapy from an accredited program.

They also need to pass the national certification exam to become a Registered Occupational Therapist.

Furthermore, most states require licensure or certification to practice occupational therapy in schools.

 

What should you look for in a School-Based Occupational Therapist resume?

When examining a resume, look for a solid educational background and certification in occupational therapy.

Relevant experience in a school setting or with children with disabilities is highly valuable.

Also, look for evidence of strong communication skills, creativity in therapy methods, and a commitment to helping students succeed in their academic environment.

 

What qualities make a good School-Based Occupational Therapist?

A good School-Based Occupational Therapist should be patient and compassionate, as they will be working with students who have varying levels of ability and who may progress at different rates.

They should also be innovative and flexible, able to adapt therapy methods to meet individual student needs.

Excellent communication skills are necessary to effectively liaise with parents, school staff, and other healthcare professionals.

 

What are the typical responsibilities of a School-Based Occupational Therapist?

A School-Based Occupational Therapist is typically responsible for evaluating students’ abilities, developing individualized education plans, providing one-on-one or group therapy, and consulting with teachers and other school staff to modify classrooms or other environments to accommodate students.

They also communicate regularly with parents about their child’s progress.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we delved into the heart of what it truly means to be a school-based occupational therapist.

And guess what?

It’s not just about implementing therapy plans.

It’s about crafting bright futures for students, one therapeutic intervention at a time.

With our reliable school-based occupational therapist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the leap.

But why stop there?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your go-to tool for meticulously drafted listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every therapeutic intervention is a step towards a student’s brighter future.

Let’s build that future. Together.

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