CERTIFIED OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSISTANT JOB DESCRIPTION

A Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant works under the clinical supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist. The role owns direct patient care: executing treatment plans, documenting progress in the medical record, and tracking outcomes against discharge goals in post-acute and residential settings. OBRA regulations, HIPAA, and Local Coverage Determination guidelines frame every documentation and billing decision this person makes. Residents depend on consistent, technically sound sessions to regain functional independence before discharge.

As the Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant, you deliver prescribed occupational therapy treatments to residents in post-acute care, maintain accurate daily records, and allocate therapy resources in alignment with third-party reimbursement requirements. You work within an interdisciplinary rehabilitation team, reporting to and receiving clinical direction from a Registered Occupational Therapist, while coordinating care needs with physicians, family members, and other health professionals.

Career Impact: Gaining hands-on experience with NBCOT-certified practice across geriatric and post-acute populations builds the clinical depth that distinguishes a mid-career OTA in the rehabilitation job market.

Business Impact: Residents' ability to meet discharge goals and return to prior functional levels depends directly on the consistency and quality of the treatment sessions this role delivers.

Growth Opportunity: Demonstrated competency in third-party reimbursement, CPT-4 coding, and multi-payer documentation opens advancement pathways toward senior OTA, rehabilitation coordinator, or OTR-bridge program candidacy.

• Implement occupational therapy treatment plans for residents under the clinical direction of the supervising Occupational Therapist.
• Document daily progress notes, treatment records, and supplemental forms in the patient medical record accurately and on time.
• Monitor resident response to treatment and report observable changes in condition to the supervising Occupational Therapist.
• Coordinate with physicians, family members, and interdisciplinary team members to support cohesive total patient care.
• Allocate therapy resources in accordance with resident discharge goals and third-party reimbursement guidelines.
• Assist the Occupational Therapist with evaluations, complex treatment procedures, and departmental in-service programs.
• Participate in rehabilitation team conferences to contribute updates on resident progress, needs, and response to intervention.
• Maintain clinical currency by pursuing continuing education appropriate to discipline and assigned responsibilities.

• Associate degree in Occupational Therapy from an AOTA-accredited program or equivalent approved program.
• One or more years of experience in a post-acute, residential, or geriatric care setting, with demonstrated patient care competency.
• Current COTA licensure in the state of practice, or eligibility for licensure upon hire.
• NBCOT certification upon hire, with ongoing registration maintained throughout employment.
• Knowledge of OBRA regulations, HIPAA, Local Coverage Determination, and third-party reimbursement guidelines.
• CPR or BLS certification upon hire, maintained as current throughout employment.
• Ability to perform physical care tasks including prolonged standing, pushing and pulling up to 35 lbs, and lifting up to 50 lbs independently.
• Effective oral and written communication skills, with the ability to interact with patients, families, and clinical staff across diverse backgrounds.

• Experience in a setting serving a geriatric or age-specific resident population consistent with the hiring facility.
• Working knowledge of CPT-4 coding and billing documentation requirements in a rehabilitation context.
• Familiarity with quality assurance processes and infection control practices in a post-acute care environment.
• Demonstrated ability to delegate tasks to support staff and oversee COTA students or volunteers.

• Treatment session completion rate, reflecting adherence to the OT-prescribed plan across the resident caseload.
• Documentation turnaround time, measuring whether daily notes and supplemental records are completed within required periods.
• Resident goal achievement rate at discharge, indicating functional progress relative to established OT treatment targets.
• Reimbursement accuracy rate, reflecting correct payer allocation and CPT-4 coding on submitted treatment records.
• Compliance audit results, measuring adherence to OBRA, HIPAA, and Local Coverage Determination standards across documentation.
• Typical tools: Rehabilitation documentation platforms (commonly Rehab Optima or similar therapy EMR) and productivity software (commonly Microsoft Word and Excel).

• Base Salary Range: $48,000 to $62,000 annually, depending on experience and facility type.
• Bonus: periodic performance or productivity bonuses common in post-acute settings.
• Equity: not typical for this role and industry.
• Health Benefits: medical, dental, and vision coverage standard across most post-acute employers.
• PTO: 10 to 18 days annually, plus observed holidays.
• Common Perks: Continuing education reimbursement, license renewal support, and CPR recertification coverage.

Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.

Background checks, including applicable drug screening, are a condition of employment given the patient-care nature of this role. All qualified applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under federal, state, or local law. Reasonable accommodations are available to individuals with disabilities throughout the hiring process and in the performance of job duties. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.

The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant delivers direct resident care by providing occupational therapy treatments, documenting progress notes, and allocating therapy resources in alignment with resident discharge goals. Working under the clinical supervision of the Occupational Therapist, this role supports regulatory compliance with OBRA, HIPAA, and Local Coverage Determination standards to sustain a confident and effective rehabilitation program.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide occupational therapy treatments to residents according to treatment plans developed by the Occupational Therapist.
• Assist the Occupational Therapist when performing tests, evaluations, and complex treatment procedures.
• Observe, record and report to the therapist the conditions, reactions and responses related to assigned duties.
• Maintain daily records of treatments and document progress notes on residents as directed by the therapist.
• Assist the therapist in consulting with family members, physicians and other health care professionals, as appropriate.
• Assist the Occupational Therapist with in-service programs and other meetings as assigned.
• Access continuing education opportunities appropriate to discipline and responsibilities to maintain clinical currency.
• Attend and participate in rehabilitation team conferences regarding resident progress, problems or needs.
• Understand reimbursement by various payers and allocate therapy resources efficiently in accordance with resident goals and outcomes.
• Demonstrate knowledge of OBRA regulations, HIPAA, Local Coverage Determination, and third party reimbursement guidelines.

Required Qualifications

• Graduate of an approved Occupational Therapy Assistant program.
• Current license or eligible for license under statutes in the state of practice.
• Experience in a setting serving the same age and type of resident population preferred.
• Knowledge of OBRA regulations, HIPAA, and Local Coverage Determination guidelines.
• Ability to understand and follow the directions of the Occupational Therapist and facility policies.
• Ability to perform prolonged standing, pushing and pulling up to 35 lbs, lifting up to 50 lbs independently, stooping, reaching, and balancing safely.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Embedded within a licensed occupational therapy department, the Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant implements therapy services for patients ranging from adolescent to geriatric under OTR supervision, including daily documentation, billing accuracy, and work area compliance inspections. Working closely with the supervising OTR and interdisciplinary personnel, this role advances patient outcomes by maintaining clear communication on treatment response and contributing to a measurable, well-documented care record.

Core Functions

• Implement occupational therapy services for patients under the direction and supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist.
• Monitor medical condition of patients and report changes to appropriate personnel.
• Inspect work area daily for compliance with policies, procedures, regulations and standards, and take corrective action when violations occur.
• Effectively communicate the benefits of therapeutic intervention to patients in understandable terms.
• Maintain communication with the OTR regarding the patient's response to treatment, progress, and recommendations for treatment plan adjustment.
• Document daily in a clear, concise and organized manner and accurately complete all required supplemental documentation in a timely manner.
• Provide accurate information of services rendered for billing purposes and keep tracking tools accurate and up to date.
• Enhance professional growth through participation in educational programs, professional affiliations, in-services, and workshops.
• Contribute to patient assessment under supervision of an OTR.

Qualifications and Experience

• Associate's Degree from an accredited COTA program.
• Current BLS certificate through the American Heart Association.
• Valid COTA license.
• Knowledge of indications and contraindications of all department modalities and procedures.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Ability to prioritize, organize, coordinate work, and handle multiple tasks appropriately.
• Ability to deal effectively with people across a broad range of cultural backgrounds and ages.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Reporting to the supervising Occupational Therapist, the Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant follows established treatment plans, charts patient progress, and liaises with patients, families, and support departments to ensure coordinated post-acute care. Partnering with an interdisciplinary team and community health initiatives, this role strengthens care delivery outcomes by maintaining regulatory compliance and supporting consistent, dependable attendance and conduct.

Primary Duties

• Follow occupational treatment plans for patients under the direction of the supervising Occupational Therapist.
• Implement and interpret the programs, goals, objectives, policies, and procedures of the department.
• Chart appropriately and timely, and utilize therapy software accurately.
• Assist in the evacuation of patients and demonstrate dependable, regular attendance.
• Communicate and function productively on an interdisciplinary team.
• Liaise with patients, families, and support departments to adequately plan for patient needs.
• Demonstrate good body mechanics at all times and make independent decisions when circumstances warrant.
• Maintain confidentiality of all proprietary and confidential information.
• Participate in community health matters and projects as appropriate.

Skills and Qualifications

• NBCOT certified upon hire, with renewal optional going forward.
• Graduate of an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program.
• Currently registered and licensed in the applicable state, with active license maintained throughout employment.
• One year of experience in post-acute care or a related setting preferred.
• CPR certification upon hire or obtained during orientation, maintained as current throughout employment.
• Knowledge of practices, procedures, laws, regulations, and guidelines governing post-acute care facilities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and email applications.

Sitting at the intersection of clinical care and interdisciplinary coordination, the Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant documents daily and weekly treatments, delegates support staff assignments, and represents the Occupational Therapy Department in care conferences. Operating across patient, family, and departmental relationships, this role ensures quality care delivery and accurate inventory management within a geriatric rehabilitation setting.

Duties

• Legibly document daily and weekly treatments provided in the patient medical record.
• Coordinate with other disciplines for effective total patient care.
• Delegate work assignments, responsibilities, and patients to support staff as needed.
• Represent the Occupational Therapy Department to family, visitors, and personnel and attend care conferences as requested.
• Effectively communicate with department staff, company personnel, patients, caregivers, and the department head.
• Assist in maintaining, organizing, and coordinating appropriate inventory levels of departmental supplies and equipment.
• Actively participate in Quality Assurance initiatives as appropriate.

Experience and Qualifications

• Current Michigan COTA license in good standing.
• Graduate of an AOTA-approved school with an associate degree in Occupational Therapy.
• Minimum one year of experience in geriatrics.
• Effective written, verbal, and analytical skills.
• Effective customer relations skills.

A key member of the school rehabilitation team, the Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant implements therapeutic activities and IEP-aligned intervention plans, conducts student evaluations, and adapts classroom materials to facilitate access for students with special needs. Collaborating across Occupational Therapists, classroom staff, families, and related service providers, this role guides educational outcomes by ensuring compliant documentation and responsive communication with all stakeholders.

Functions

• Implement therapeutic activities, programs, and treatments under the direction of an Occupational Therapist.
• Conduct evaluations or screenings of students under the guidance of the Occupational Therapist and document services rendered.
• Coordinate the development of intervention plans with the Occupational Therapist, classroom staff, and other related service providers.
• Assist with the implementation of behavioral and academic intervention plans in accordance with IEP goals.
• Communicate and respond to inquiries from families, teachers, and other staff, and provide instructional information.
• Recommend, research, and obtain specialized equipment, and maintain equipment as needed.
• Adapt school and classroom materials to facilitate student access and participation in activities.

Technical Qualifications

• Associate degree or two-year technical certificate in Occupational Therapy.
• Occupational Therapy Assistant license.
• Knowledge of occupational therapy principles, practices, ethics, safety requirements, and applicable local, state, and federal laws.
• Knowledge of special needs students, assistive learning tools, technologies, and evaluation and assessment methods.
• Proficient in computers and related software applications.
• Skills in preparing and maintaining records, reports, and providing customer service.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills applied to interaction with students, families, coworkers, and the general public.

Consistent patient recovery depends on the Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant, who implements and modifies treatment plan components under OTR direction, performs measurement procedures, documents outcomes daily, and oversees COTA students and volunteers. Based within a medical rehabilitation facility and serving patients whose needs span physical, mental, and social dimensions, this role advances care quality through accurate CPT-4 coding and timely interdisciplinary communication.

Accountabilities

• Implement and modify the designated parts of the treatment plan under the direction of the Registered Occupational Therapist.
• Review patient chart and obtain medical and precaution information prior to each treatment requiring alteration.
• Provide therapeutic exercise, ADL training, adaptive equipment training, and industrial rehabilitation activities as appropriate.
• Report observations and patient responses to the OTR on a timely basis and involve patient and family in home program instruction.
• Perform selected measurement procedures and discuss results with the appropriate Occupational Therapist for their interpretation.
• Document treatment outcomes daily, including changes in patient status, treatment progression, and achievement of goals.
• Consult with the appropriate Occupational Therapist regarding patients and document conferences.
• Provide and participate in in-service and community education within scope of knowledge base.
• Oversee work assignments of COTA students and volunteers.
• Demonstrate working knowledge and appropriate application of CPT-4 codes for all services provided.

Education and Experience

• Associate's degree in Occupational Therapy.
• Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
• Current BLS for Healthcare Provider CPR or CPR and AED for the Professional Rescuer certification.
• Valid Hawaii Occupational Therapy Assistant license.
• One year of experience in a medical facility with thorough understanding of physical, mental, psychological, and social needs of patients.
• Knowledge of CPT-4 coding and billing requirements.
• Ability to physically assist patients in performing functional tasks and therapeutic exercises.
• Demonstrated skills in adaptability, interpersonal relations, customer service, problem solving, and teamwork.

As the Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant, this role implements IEP goals, develops adaptive equipment, maintains student progress records, and supports program development under the supervision of a Registered Occupational Therapist in a school-based environment. The school rehabilitation team relies on this work to ensure compliant documentation, safe equipment maintenance, and consistent attendance that sustains continuity of therapy services for students.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

• Implement IEP goals under supervision of the Registered Occupational Therapist.
• Observe students informally in the school and home setting.
• Develop adaptive equipment under the supervision of a Registered Occupational Therapist.
• Establish and maintain appropriate records, reports, and procedures including lesson plans, behavioral data, and student progress on IEP goals.
• Use various software packages for communication and documentation purposes.
• Participate in IEP and parent conferences as appropriate.
• Assist with program development and ordering of supplies and materials.
• Maintain occupational therapy equipment and adhere to district health and safety procedures.
• Maintain regular consistent attendance, punctuality, and a professional personal appearance.

Position Requirements

• High school diploma or GED, with registration, licensure, or certification from a state governmental agency or recognized professional board.
• Knowledge of child growth and development principles.
• Proficient in PC computer, laptop, assistive communication devices and technology, and educational software.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely both orally and in writing.
• Ability to organize, follow through on multiple tasks, and assume responsibility for supervising students.

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant delivers direct patient care by instructing and assisting patients through physical activities, administering assessments at multiple treatment stages, and completing all billing and documentation in compliance with regulatory standards. The work directly supports patient progress across varied age groups and health care settings, with the care plan executed in collaboration with Occupational Therapist Assistants and aligned to infection control protocols.

Scope of Work

• Instruct, motivate, and assist patients to perform physical activities such as non-manual exercises, ambulatory functional activities, daily-living activities, and use of assistive devices.
• Educate patients and their families and caregivers on resident progress, healthy lifestyle, and injury and disability prevention.
• Collaborate with Occupational Therapist Assistants in the delivery of the established care plan.
• Administer objective tests and assessments at various stages for regulatory and documentation compliance, and adjust treatments to achieve maximum benefit.
• Complete all essential documentation and forms related to treatment services including billing, physician orders, interdisciplinary screenings, ROM, and care plan.

Background and Experience

• State-issued certificate as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant.
• At least one year of experience as an Occupational Therapy Assistant.
• Exposure to patients of varying age groups in different health care settings.
• Experience implementing infection control practices and procedures preferred.
• Proficient with Rehab Optima and Microsoft Office software.