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Occupational Therapist – Part-Time (2 Days per Week)

Duties

Position/Role Summary:

The Occupational Therapist supports student outcomes by implementing an occupational therapy program aligned with IEP goals. Services are designed to improve fine motor skills, sensory processing, and functional independence to support participation in school activities. The Occupational Therapist actively participates as a member of each student’s educational team and the school community to ensure coordinated and effective services.

Qualifications

Qualifications:

Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) Occupational Therapist License
National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) certification
Membership in the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) is preferred

Salary/Benefits

Compensation and Benefits:

Per the Niles Township Federation of Special Education Educators and Support Staff Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Additional Notes

Responsibilities:

The Occupational Therapist works within a collaborative multidisciplinary team that may include:

School psychologists
Social workers
Speech-language pathologists
Physical therapists
Instructional & Behavioral Coaches
Music therapists
Paraprofessional staff
Vision Itinerants

The Occupational Therapist receives support through team collaboration, consultation with related service providers, and ongoing program development to ensure that students receive coordinated, comprehensive occupational therapy services aligned with their individual needs.

Vision of Learning

Demonstrates knowledge of current research and evidence-based practices in occupational therapy and special education.
Facilitates the development of fine motor, sensory, self-regulation, and functional skills that promote independence and student participation in the educational environment.
Works collaboratively with general education staff, related service providers, outside agencies, and families, as appropriate, to support student well-being and access to the educational environment.
Supports inclusive practices and student participation in the general education environment when appropriate.

Learning Context and Therapeutic Support

Provides individual and small-group occupational therapy services in a structured, supportive environment, in collaboration with related service providers.
Develops and implements therapeutic interventions aligned with students’ IEP goals and functional needs.
Demonstrates understanding of a range of disabilities, including autism spectrum disorders, developmental disabilities, and behavioral challenges, and supports students using evidence-based occupational therapy practices.
Utilizes data and observation to monitor student progress and adjust therapeutic approaches as needed.
Uses a variety of therapeutic techniques, tools, and adaptive equipment to support fine motor development, sensory processing, self-regulation, and functional independence.
Integrates student goals and objectives into therapy sessions and activities.
Utilizes technology and data systems to document services and monitor student progress.
Organizes time, environment, materials, and equipment to create a structured, predictable, and supportive therapeutic setting.

Assessment

Conduct formal and informal assessments of student performance in fine motor, sensory, functional, and developmental areas using standardized tools and observational methods.
Use progress-monitoring tools and data-collection systems to evaluate the effectiveness of occupational therapy interventions and supports.
Involve students in the assessment process, when developmentally appropriate, to promote self-awareness and independence.
Interpret assessment results in an equitable, culturally responsive, and developmentally appropriate manner.

Staff Roles

Communicates effectively in writing, including contributing to IEP documents, progress reports, and evaluation input.
Completes required documentation, including service documentation and progress monitoring, within required timelines and in compliance with IDEA and Illinois State Board of Education regulations.
Contributes to IEP development and implementation in collaboration with team members.
Responsible for the supervision and safety of students during therapy sessions and school-related activities, as assigned.
Maintains and documents ongoing communication with families regarding student progress and occupational therapy supports.
Assists district personnel in understanding and supporting student motor, sensory, and functional needs within the educational environment.
Participates in transition planning and goal development when appropriate.
Models positive behavior, communication, and problem-solving strategies for students.
Lifts and transports students as needed in accordance with safe lifting procedures and training.
Assists students during crisis situations by utilizing appropriate Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) techniques and other de-escalation strategies.
Demonstrates knowledge of first aid, health protocols, and emergency response procedures.
Participates in professional learning, mentoring programs, and collaborative team meetings.
Demonstrates professionalism and ethical conduct.
Follows policies and procedures established by NTDSE, partner districts, and the IL School Code.

Communication Skills

Communicates in an effective, collaborative, culturally responsive, and positive manner with students, colleagues, and families.
Acts as an integral member of the multidisciplinary educational team.
Maintains confidentiality in matters related to this position.
Builds and maintains positive relationships with students, families, staff, and community partners.
Serves as a positive ambassador for NTDSE.

Physical Demands and Work Environment: This position requires the ability to perform the essential functions of the role, with reasonable accommodations available as needed. Regular activities include standing, walking, sitting, bending, writing, typing, speaking, and listening, with occasional reaching, twisting, or climbing, and the ability to maintain close, peripheral, and distant vision.

Work is conducted in a variety of educational and office settings, including classrooms, therapy rooms, and administrative offices. The role may involve light lifting, use of standard office equipment and technology, frequent interaction with staff and students, and travel between NTDSE programs and participating districts. This description complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and may be reviewed as program needs evolve.

Terms of Employment: