Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA) - School

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)This contract Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) role is a school-based position serving students within a welcoming public school district in Lovington, New Mexico. Lovington offers the charm of a small, friendly community with the convenience of nearby larger towns. Residents enjoy big skies, open landscapes, and colorful New Mexico sunsets, along with a lower cost of living that makes day-to-day life more comfortable. In your off time, you can explore local parks and community events, or make a short drive to Hobbs and other Lea County communities for additional shopping, dining, recreation centers, and regional festivals. The area provides a relaxed pace of life, strong community traditions, and supportive schools that value their staff.In this position, you will work under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist to provide school-based occupational therapy services to students with a variety of needs. You will support students' participation in their educational programs by addressing fine motor skills, handwriting, visual-motor integration, sensory processing, self-care, self-regulation, and other functional skills needed for school success. Typical responsibilities include implementing therapeutic activities and interventions designed by the supervising Occupational Therapist, collecting data on student progress, documenting sessions in alignment with district and state expectations, and assisting in preparation of materials and equipment. You will participate in team meetings as requested, provide input to support IEP goals, and collaborate with teachers and staff on classroom strategies, modifications, and accommodations that help students access the curriculum.A typical day may include: Traveling between one or more school campuses within the district as assigned Providing direct and group therapy sessions in classrooms, therapy rooms, or other school settings Carrying out fine motor and sensory activities that align with student IEP goals Supporting teachers with classroom environmental modifications and activity adaptations Completing timely documentation of services provided and student responses Communicating with the supervising OT regarding student progress, concerns, and needed adjustments Collaborating with special education staff, related service providers, and school teams to ensure coordinated care Caseload size and age range will be determined by district needs but may include students from preschool through high school, with a mix of mild to more complex needs. You may support students in general education classrooms, resource rooms, and specialized programs. Ratios and schedules are designed to be manageable and to support meaningful, quality interventions, while still reflecting the realities of a busy school environment. The work schedule follows the school calendar, typically Monday through Friday during standard school hours, which allows for evenings and most weekends free. As a contract COTA, you will have the opportunity to gain valuable experience in a school-based practice, strengthen your skills in IEP-driven therapy, and build a resume with solid pediatric and educational practice in New Mexico. The district is accustomed to working with related service providers and offers a team-oriented culture where collaboration is encouraged and input from COTAs is valued.