The Tuscarora Intermediate Unit invites applicants for either an Occupational Therapist or a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant in Juniata County.  Anticipated start date is July 1, 2024.

Fundamental Duties/Essential Functions

    1.     Perform and interpret appropriate tests and procedures which aid in the evaluation of the needs of physically handicapped students.

    2.     Assist the multidisciplinary team in the comprehensive assessment of a student so that appropriate and adequate educational programs and services are considered as part of the team decision making process.

    3.     Plan and implement therapy programs on the basis of evaluations, following referral and approval of the program by the physician.

    4.     Consult with the teacher to effectively link therapy with IEP goals and objectives in the sensory motor and gross motor areas.

    5.     Provide assessment data and recommendations about intervention strategies and expert knowledge in specific areas of a child's development through periodic progress reports.

    6.     Consult with parents regarding evaluation results, as well as making recommendations to the parent about any interventions that can be done at home.

    7.     Function as a liaison between the school and community-based therapy program.

    8.     Any employee who completes certification and/or licensure requirements shall fulfill School-Based Access Program (SBAP) functions.

    9.     Perform other tasks as assigned by the designated Supervisor of Special Education.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Individuals must possess these skills, knowledge and abilities or be able to explain and demonstrate that the individual can perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation, using some other combination of skills and abilities.  Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health and safety of themselves or other employees.

    1.     Knowledge of the Pennsylvania Special Education Regulations and Standards.

    2.     Knowledge of occupational therapy assessment procedures and therapy methods.

    3.     Ability to orally communicate effectively in English with others in all levels of group and individual contacts.

    4.     Ability to communicate effectively in writing, using the English language.

    5.     Ability to provide personal, reliable vehicle for own travel requirements.

    6.     Ability to exert up to 50 pounds of force, occasionally, to lift, carry, push, or otherwise move equipment/supplies including students.

    7.     Willingness to conduct therapy in various physical settings to include homes, schools, community centers, etc.

    8.     Ability to employ interpersonal skills so as to effectively collaborate with school staff, parents and agency personnel.

Qualification Standards

    1.     Education:  Possess an Occupational Therapy License to practice in Pennsylvania.

    2.     Experience:  Prior experience as an occupational therapist in educational settings is preferred.

A review of this job description has excluded the marginal functions of the position that are incidental to the performance of fundamental job duties.  All duties and requirements are essential job functions.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee.  Employees will be required to follow any other job related instructions and to perform any other job related duties required by their supervisor.0