Occupational Therapy Assistant

Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) – Job Description

Position Summary

The Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) supports the delivery of high-quality rehabilitative services under the direction of a licensed Occupational Therapist (OT). The OTA helps residents achieve and maintain their highest level of independence by implementing therapeutic interventions that improve daily living skills, safety, function, and quality of life. The OTA collaborates closely with residents, families, therapy staff, nursing staff, and facility leadership.

Essential Job Functions

Clinical Responsibilities

• Carry out treatment plans developed by the Occupational Therapist in accordance with physician orders, facility policies, and state/federal regulations.
• Provide therapeutic interventions including ADL retraining, cognitive/perceptual training, functional mobility tasks, strengthening, coordination, and restorative programs.
• Assist residents with adaptive equipment education, home safety recommendations, and functional task modifications.
• Monitor resident performance and tolerance during therapy sessions and modify tasks as appropriate under OT guidance.
• Document treatments, observations, resident progress, and communication in the EMR per facility standards and regulatory requirements.
• Participate in care plan development by providing timely and accurate data to the OT.
• Conduct therapy screens to identify residents who may benefit from skilled therapy services.
• Support therapy programs such as restorative nursing, positioning, and fall prevention initiatives.

Compliance & Safety

• Follow CMS, state, and facility regulatory requirements for therapy delivery and documentation.
• Maintain resident privacy and confidentiality per HIPAA and facility policy.
• Ensure proper infection control and safety measures during treatment.
• Identify and report changes in resident condition to the OT and nursing staff promptly.
• Properly maintain and request repairs for therapy equipment and assistive devices.

Collaboration & Communication

• Communicate effectively with the OT, therapy team, nursing staff, residents, and families regarding resident progress and needs.
• Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings, care conferences, and daily stand-up as appropriate.
• Provide training and education to residents, caregivers, and staff on safe functional techniques, adaptive equipment, and recommended interventions.

Qualifications

• Graduate of an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program.
• Active, unrestricted OTA license in the state of Minnesota (or appropriate state).
• Prior experience in skilled nursing, long-term care, or geriatric therapy preferred.
• Current CPR certification (or ability to obtain upon hire).
• Strong clinical reasoning, time management, and documentation skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing resident needs.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift, push, pull, and