Travel Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
Concord, CA
The Good Life MedStaff
5x8 hrs, Days
Referral Bonus

Job Title: Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA)
Job Summary:
An Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) works under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist to help patients develop, recover, improve, and maintain the skills needed for daily living and working. OTAs play a crucial role in implementing treatment plans, monitoring progress, and supporting patients' therapeutic goals.

Key Responsibilities:
Assist patients with therapeutic activities and exercises outlined by the Occupational Therapist.

Monitor and record patient progress, behavior, and response to treatment.

Educate patients and family members about home exercises and therapeutic strategies.

Maintain patient records and document therapy sessions accurately.

Set up equipment and prepare treatment areas for patient use.

Support patients in learning how to use adaptive tools and techniques to perform daily tasks.

Communicate observations and feedback to the Occupational Therapist to update treatment plans.

Ensure a clean, safe, and supportive therapy environment.

Participate in team meetings and collaborate with other healthcare professionals.

Skills and Qualifications:
Associate’s degree from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program.

Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Ability to follow directions and work under supervision.

Patience, empathy, and motivation to help others.

Familiarity with medical terminology and therapeutic techniques.

Licensing and Certification Requirements:
In the United States, all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico require OTAs to be licensed, certified, or registered. While requirements vary slightly, most states have similar criteria:

Common Requirements Across States:
Graduation from an accredited OTA program.

Completion of supervised fieldwork (clinical experience).

Passing the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) COTA® exam.

Background check and application through the state licensing board.

Continuing education to maintain licensure.

Example of State-Specific Requirements:
California: Requires licensure through the California Board of Occupational Therapy (CBOT).

Texas: Licensure required through the Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners.

New York: Requires licensure through the New York State Education Department and completion of an ethics exam.

Florida: Requires licensure and proof of 2 hours of HIV/AIDS training before initial licensure.

Illinois: Requires licensure and 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years for renewal.