Onward Education is a specialized education staffing and talent solutions company that helps educators, therapists, and school health professionals find top roles with leading schools nationwide. We're partnering with a school district in Maricopa County, Arizona to hire a dedicated Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) for the 2026-2027 school year.

In this school-based role, the COTA works under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist (OT) to deliver direct therapy services and help students build the skills needed to participate successfully in school routines and activities.

Position Details:

• Role: Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)
• School Year/Program: 2026-2027 School Year
• Setting: In-person / on-site

Responsibilities:

• Implement OT treatment plans and intervention strategies aligned to student goals (IEPs and/or 504 Plans).
• Provide direct support to build student skills in areas such as:
• Fine motor development (handwriting, cutting, classroom tool use)
• Gross motor coordination (posture, balance, coordination)
• Sensory processing and self-regulation strategies
• Self-help skills as appropriate (school-based daily living tasks)
• Support student participation in school routines by using and reinforcing adaptive tools and accommodations (e.g., pencil grips, slant boards, seating supports).
• Track and document session observations and student progress; communicate updates to the supervising OT to support plan adjustments.
• Collaborate with school teams (teachers, service providers, and support staff) to help carry over strategies into the classroom.
• Prepare, organize, and maintain therapy materials and adaptive equipment.

Qualifications:

• Active Arizona COTA license required.
• School-based or pediatric experience preferred.
• Strong communication, documentation, and collaboration skills.

What We Offer:

• Competitive pay and benefits options (as applicable).
• A streamlined hiring process to help you start quickly.
• Ongoing communication and advocacy throughout your assignment.
• Support from dedicated recruiting professionals.
• Access to a wide network of school opportunities.

Why Apply?
If you enjoy hands-on work with students and want a school-based opportunity where you can make a meaningful impact day-to-day--this COTA role is a great fit.
Ready to join us? Apply today--we can't wait to hear from you.

Employer Details:

• Onward Search is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to a policy of non-discrimination in an employment with regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status or any other classification protected by federal, state and local laws and ordinances. Candidates must be at least 18 years old to be considered for employment. EOE/M/F/D/V/SO.
• In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire.
• Onward Search is unable to support 1099 / Corp-to-Corp or Independent Contractor arrangements at this time. All freelancers will be paid as W2 employees.
• Onward Search offers medical, dental, vision benefits, as well as a 401k program, for all eligible full time temporary assignments.
• Onward Search is a drug-free workplace.
• Onward Search is a nationwide staffing agency and talent solutions provider specializing in creative, marketing and technology. Our clients are continuously turning to us to fill their open positions. Therefore, there is no application deadline for this position, as we are seeking candidates for this type of role across all our clients on an ongoing basis.