About this opportunity
Brooklyn Kindergarten Society lists this Occupational Therapy Assistant opportunity in brooklyn, New York. Review the employer’s description below for duties, qualifications and application requirements.
Job description
School-Based Pediatric Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)
Reports To: Supervising Occupational Therapist (OT), Related Services Coordinator
FLSA Status: Exempt/Non-Union Work Location: Center-based with travel to all BKS sites Schedule: Full-time (40 hours/week)
The Brooklyn Kindergarten Society (BKS) is the original "born in Brooklyn." We were founded in 1891, and for 130 years, BKS has helped provide high-quality early childhood education to working families. BKS has grown up with the borough and continues to be a leader in equitable access to early childhood education. We provide full day, year-round academic experiences and care for children ages 2-5 years old. Our curriculum is play based and marries together reading, writing, movement and music, with STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) learning. Our goal is to ensure that Brooklyn's youngest learners have an equitable first educational step.
Position Summary
Brooklyn Kindergarten Society is seeking a certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to join our school-based related services team in Brooklyn, New York. This role supports students across the preschool settings by providing occupational therapy services under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist (OT), in alignment with IEP goals and assessment outcomes and treatment plans.
This position differs from common expectations outlined in NYC-based COTA roles posted on Indeed and LinkedIn, with a strong focus on classroom-based intervention, collaboration, and student access to inclusive learning across 7 centers in Central Brooklyn.
Key Responsibilities
Deliver direct occupational therapy services to students (individual and small group) as outlined in IEPs and treatment plans
Carry out treatment plans developed by the supervising OT, with fidelity and adaptability to school routines
Support student development in:
Fine motor and visual-motor integration
Handwriting and pre-writing skills
Sensory processing and self-regulation
Gross motor coordination and postural control (as applicable)
Self-care and school participation skills
Collect data on student progress and report outcomes to the supervising OT
Assist with progress notes, session documentation, and IEP-related paperwork
Implement classroom-based strategies, accommodations, and sensory supports
Collaborate regularly with teachers, related service providers, and families
Participate in Inclusive Learning Team meetings, team conferences, and professional development activities
Maintain compliance with district, state, and federal regulations, including FERPA and IDEA
Travel to other sites when needed to meet the needs of participating children attending other BKS centers.
Required Knowledge, Skills & Experience
Associate's degree from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program
Active New York State licensure/certification as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)
Current NBCOT certification
Ability to work under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to manage a school-based caseload and daily schedule
Preferred Qualifications
Prior experience in a school-based or pediatric setting
Familiarity with IEPs and treatment plans, AOTA ethics and multidisciplinary collaboration
Experience supporting students with:
Autism Spectrum Disorder
ADHD
Developmental delays
Sensory processing differences
Comfort working in inclusive classrooms and special education environments
Skills & Competencies
Classroom-based intervention and consultation skills
Strong clinical reasoning skills
Strong organization and time-management abilities
Flexibility and adaptability within fast-paced school settings
Ability to work some evenings and weekends
Flexibility with traveling to multiple locations
Ability to build rapport with children, families, and school staff
Data-driven decision-making and documentation accuracy
Work Environment
Services provided in sensory gym classrooms, therapy rooms, and playgrounds
Physical demands include sitting on the floor, bending, lifting therapy materials, and assisting students with movement as appropriate
Worksite address
brooklyn, NY, 11210, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.