Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)
 

Join KALESTA HEALTHCARE GROUP and make a meaningful impact by supporting high-quality, compassionate rehabilitation care for residents in our skilled nursing facility. This is an excellent opportunity for a graduating student or new graduate looking to begin a rewarding career in Occupational Therapy while working closely with residents, families, caregivers, licensed therapists, and an interdisciplinary healthcare team.
 

• Direct Hiring in Skilled Nursing Facilities across Northern California:
  Modesto, Merced, Menlo Park, Chico, Sacramento, Manteca, Los Banos & Saratoga.
• Pay ranges may vary depending on the location.
• $2,500 Retention Bonus — For full-time positions in California.
• $2,500 Relocation Bonus — Available for Modesto, Manteca, Los Banos, Merced, and Chico facilities. Typically eligible after 90 days.
• $5,000 Student Loan Repayment — Per Calendar year.
• $2,500 Referral Bonus
• $500 Annual License Renewal Bonus — Covers license renewal, CPR, and CEU expenses per calendar year.
• H-1B Sponsorship / H-1B Transfer Assistance — Available for eligible full-time employees
   

The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) provides appropriate aspects of patient care under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist. The COTA implements established treatment plans, communicates with patients and families, documents patient progress, and collaborates with the rehabilitation team to support positive functional outcomes.
 

Reporting: This position reports directly to the Occupational Therapist and Facility Rehab Director.
 

Why This Role Matters
 

• Implement and carry out established patient treatment plans under the supervision of the Occupational Therapist
• Provide appropriate occupational therapy interventions according to the established treatment plan
• Communicate with patients, families, physicians, and other members of the interdisciplinary team
• Monitor patient response to treatment and report changes in patient status or needs to the supervising therapist
• Provide timely and accurate written documentation according to facility, department, and payer requirements
• Document treatment and patient progress to support licensing, certification, regulatory, reimbursement, and physician requirements
• Provide patient screens and identify appropriate interventions for treatment
• Coordinate treatment goals with other members of the rehabilitation team
• Use professional judgment to ensure the safety of patients, staff, and others
• Participate in interdisciplinary teamwork and effective communication
• Attend required meetings, in-services, training sessions, and educational presentations
• Prepare and submit accurate patient charges and billing information
• Support department operations and development
• Maintain awareness of patient and community needs, conditions, and available programs
• Maintain and enhance clinical and professional knowledge through continuing education and professional development
• Maintain valid licensure and required certifications
   

What We’re Looking For
 

Education and License

• Currently completing or recently graduated from an approved Occupational Therapy Assistant program
• Graduating students and new graduates are encouraged to apply
• Current, active, and unencumbered Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant license or appropriate authorization to practice in the State of California
• CPR certification required; candidates who do not yet have CPR certification may obtain it prior to or during the onboarding process
• Must be in good standing with applicable regulatory agencies and licensing boards

Experience

• No prior skilled nursing facility experience required
• Clinical experience through fieldwork, internships, externships, or clinical placements
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities simultaneously

Qualifications & Skills

• Strong clinical foundation in Occupational Therapy
• Ability to follow and implement treatment plans under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Compassionate and empathetic approach to patient care
• Strong documentation and organizational skills
• Proficiency with EMR and rehabilitation systems or willingness to learn
• Ability to work effectively as part of an interdisciplinary team
• Strong desire to learn, grow, and build a career in skilled nursing rehabilitation
• Professional presentation and conduct
• Commitment to continuing education and professional development
• Understanding of patient rights, confidentiality, and HIPAA requirements

Physical & Working Conditions

• Skilled Nursing Facility environment
• Ability to move intermittently throughout the workday
• Ability to sit and walk for extended periods
• Ability to bend, squat, push, stoop, and pull as required for resident care
• Ability to lift and move up to 100 pounds with assistance according to resident needs
• Potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens, chemicals, fumes, and odors
• Ability to manage the physical, mental, and emotional demands associated with skilled nursing care
• Ability to work effectively in a 24-hour skilled care environment
   

Apply Now!

You may also contact: 

Kathy Opamen, Therapist Recruiter

Email: kopamen@kalestahc.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kathyopamen

We look forward to reviewing your application!