Occupational Therapist

Primary Purpose:

Plan and provide therapy to students with mental, physical, or emotional disabilities. Provide therapeutic intervention to maximize physical or mental functioning, increase independent functioning, and/or adjust to disabilities.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification:

Bachelor’s degree in occupational therapy or related program

Valid Texas license as an occupational therapist granted by the Texas Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners

Special Knowledge/Skills:

Knowledge of rehabilitation procedures, activities, and equipment used in occupational therapy

Ability to instruct students and manage their behavior

Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

Experience:

Six months experience as an occupational therapist

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

Therapy

• Plan and provide direct and consultative services consistent with occupational therapy goals contained in students’ Individual Education Plans (IEP). Evaluate student progress and make recommendations regarding occupational therapy services.
• Design, construct, alter, and provide students with adaptive equipment and devices to promote maximum independence.
• Assess students with disabilities and determine eligibility for services.

Consultation

• Present staff development in assigned school as requested. Conduct one-on-one consultation with teachers, parents, and others to assist with selection and use of adaptive equipment and material that will enhance student learning.

Student Management

• Create an environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the maturity level, interests, and needs of the student.
• Establish control and administer discipline according to the Student Code of Conduct and student handbook.

Program Management

• Participate in the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee to assist with the interpretation of assessment data, appropriate placement, and goal setting for students according to district procedures.
• Develop and coordinate a continuing evaluation of the occupational therapy program and implement changes based on the findings.

Administration

• Compile, maintain, and file all reports, records and other documents required.
• Comply with policies established by federal and state law, State Board of Education rule, and local board policy. Comply with all district and campus routines and regulations.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

Supervise the work of the occupational therapy assistant(s).

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

Tools/Equipment Used: Special needs adaptive equipment; standard office equipment including computer and peripherals
Posture: Frequent standing, sitting, kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing pulling, and twisting
Motion: Frequent walking, grasping/squeezing, wrist flexion/extension

Lifting: Regular heavy lifting (45 pounds or more) and position of students with physical disabilities; controlling behavior through physical restraint, assisting nonambulatory students

Environment: Exposure to biological hazards, bacteria, and communicable diseases; may require districtwide travel
Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress
Days Employed: 187

Salary

Commensurate with TCISD teacher hiring salary guide