Occupational Therapist

Occupational Therapist

JOB STATUS: UNTIL FILLED POSTING DATE: 06/12/2025 POSTING NUMBER: 00007154 LOCATION: Special Education POSITION TITLE: Occupational Therapist

JOB DESCRIPTION:

PRIMARY PURPOSE:

Plan and provide therapy to students with mental, physical, or emotional disabilities. Assess students and provide therapeutic intervention to maximize physical functioning, increase independent functioning, and/or adjust to disabilities.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

Therapy:

Plan and provide direct and consultative services consistent with occupational therapy goals contained in students' Individual Education Plans (IEP).

Evaluate student progress and determine readiness for termination of occupational therapy services.

Design, construct, alter, and provide students with adaptive equipment and devices to promote maximum independence.

Assessment:

Assess students with disabilities and determine eligibility for services.

Participate in the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee to assist with the interpretation of assessment data, appropriate placement, and goal setting for students according to district procedures.

Consultation:

Consult with educational staff and parents regarding occupational therapy.

Provide staff development training in assigned school to assist school personnel with selection and use of adaptive equipment and understanding of occupational therapy program.

Consult with parents, teachers, administrators, and other relevant people to enhance their work with students.

Student Management:

Create an environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the maturity level, interests, and needs of the student.

Establish control and administer discipline according to the Student Code of Conduct and student handbook.

Program Management:

Develop and coordinate a continuing evaluation of the occupational therapy program and implement changes based on the findings.

Assist in the selection of equipment and adaptive material.

Develop and maintain effective individual and group relationships with students and parents.

Administration:

Compile, maintain, and file all physical and computerized reports, records and other documents required.

Comply with policies established by federal and state law, State Board of Education rule, and local board policy.

Comply with all district and campus routines and regulations.

Effectively communicate with colleagues, students, and parents.

Participate in professional development activities to improve skills related to job assignment.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

None

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

Tools/Equipment Used: Special needs adaptive equipment; standard office equipment including computer and peripherals

Posture: Frequent standing, sitting, kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing pulling, and twisting

Motion: Frequent walking, grasping/squeezing, wrist flexion/extension; repetitive hand motions; prolonged use of computer; exposure to computer emissions

Lifting: Regular heavy lifting (45 pounds or more) and position of students with physical disabilities; controlling behavior through physical restraint, assisting non-ambulatory students

Environment: Exposure to biological hazards, bacteria, and communicable diseases; may requiredistrict-wide travel

Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress; ability to communicate effectively (verbal and written)

Other:

Work as a team member and with peers, teachers, campus personnel and principals. Professional demeanor, and resourcefulness, communicate effectively with diverse groups and accept supervision.

EVALUATION:

This position will be evaluated in accordance with McKinney Independent School District Board Policy DNB(LEGAL).

PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND EXPERIENCE:

One-year experience as an occupational therapist in a school setting (educational model)

REQUIREMENTS:

Education/Certification:

Bachelor's degree in occupational therapy or related program

Valid Texas license as an occupational therapist granted by the Texas Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners

Special Knowledge/Skills:

Knowledge of rehabilitation procedures, activities, and equipment used in occupational therapy

Ability to instruct students and manage their behavior

Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

Attend training and gain certification in Non-violent Crisis Intervention training (CPI) and maintain that certification annually

CONTACT INFORMATION: Reports to: Special Populations Coordinator APPLY TO: SALARY: Pay Grade: Professional (2) DAYS: 187