Title - Occupational Therapists Assistant - Extended Summer Year (ESY)
Location - Multiple
Intro
Here at Questar III BOCES, we believe in changing lives, realizing dreams and doing together what can’t be done alone. Our vision is that of creating a student-centered culture and putting students first. Our core values include a commitment to excellence by honing our craftsmanship to deliver high-quality work, a commitment to leadership & service by moving the organization, departments and school districts forward by exceeding client expectations, and a commitment to innovation by creating programs and services to address client needs AND by continuously improving our programs and operations. We believe that organizational excellence is best achieved when leadership is reflective of our diverse society.
About the Job
Questar III BOCES announces a full-time (6-week summer program) Occupational Therapists Assistant position to support Questar III special education students during ESY located at our following School Locations:
George Washington School (Troy)
Marilyn A. Noonan School (Durham)
Paul Puccio School at Maple Hill (Schodack)
Rensselaer Academy (Rensselaer)
Sackett Educational Center (Castleton-on-Hudson)
We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Occupational Therapist Assistant (OTA) to join our dynamic team for the summer. The OTA will work under the direct supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist (OT) to implement patient-specific treatment plans designed to help students recover, improve, and maintain the skills needed for daily living and working. The ideal candidate will be highly organized, possess excellent interpersonal skills, and be committed to promoting independence and quality of life for our patients.
Key Responsibilities
Assist in the Implementation of Treatment Plans:
Execute therapeutic interventions as established by the supervising OT, including purposeful activities and exercises designed to improve students' motor skills, strength, endurance, cognitive function, and daily living skills (ADLs/IADLs).
Student Care and Documentation:
Monitor and document student performance, progress, and response to treatment, reporting any significant changes to the supervising OT promptly.
Maintain accurate, timely, and compliant student records and charts.
Educate students and their families/caregivers on treatment procedures, home exercise programs, and adaptive equipment use.
Assist in Collaboration and Communication:
Collaborate effectively with the supervising Occupational Therapist regarding student status, goal modifications, and progress planning.
Communicate professionally and compassionately with students, families, and other healthcare professionals (e.g., Physical Therapists, Speech-Language Pathologists).
Assist with Equipment and Environment:
Assist in the daily use and maintenance of adaptive equipment, orthotics, and splints.
Ensure a safe, clean, and organized treatment environment, including proper handling and cleaning of therapy tools and equipment.
Professionalism:
Adhere to all federal, state, and local regulations, as well as facility policies and ethical standards of practice set forth by the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA).
Extended Summer Year (ESY) Schedule is as follows:
- July 2, 2026 - Orientation Day - All Day
- July 7, 2026 - August 14, 2026 - 6 weeks
Qualifications:
Current NYS Certified Occupational Therapy licensure/certification required.
Minimum of 1 year of experience as a COTA, or new graduates are encouraged to apply.
Skills:
Proven ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and demonstrate strong clinical reasoning skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred applicants will have experience working with special education students in an education setting.
Candidates with relevant experience in geriatric care, pediatrics, and acute rehabilitation settings are encouraged to apply.
Knowledge of electronic health record (EHR) systems and Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification is a plus.
This role requires frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and kneeling. The OTA must be able to lift and transfer patients and equipment, which may require the ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally. Specific demands will vary based on the clinical setting.
In addition to your online application, please scan and upload supporting documentation including certification, resume and letters of reference.
Preferred applicants will have experience working with special education students in an education setting.
For more information on Questar III and our programs, please visit www.questar.org
Questar III prefers an online application, please click on APPLY below.