School-Based Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)
Company : HealthPRO Heritage
Location : Porterville, CA, 93257
Job Type : Part Time
Date Posted : 28 December 2025
Overview
HealthPRO Pediatrics is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment where every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential. We are seeking a dedicated Occupational Therapist or Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant to join our team and make a meaningful impact in the lives of children.
New graduates are encouraged to apply! We provide mentorship and ongoing support to help you grow your skills and confidence in a collaborative, child-centered environment.
Licensed Occupational Therapist or COTA – Porterville, CAPart-Time, In-Person, W2 PositionHourly Rate: $68–$70 per hour, based on experience
Why Choose HealthPro Pediatrics?
- Meaningful Impact: Play a pivotal role in the lives of children and their families by helping them overcome challenges and achieve milestones in speech, physical, occupational, or ABA therapy.
- Growth Opportunities: Enjoy continuous learning and development opportunities tailored to support your professional growth.
- Collaborative Culture: Thrive in a supportive environment where teamwork, respect, and open communication are at the heart of everything we do.
- Commitment to Excellence: Join a team recognized for clinical expertise and commitment to delivering high-quality care and outcomes.
- Competitive Benefits Package: Enjoy competitive compensation along with a comprehensive benefits package designed with YOU in mind!
Join Us in Making a Difference
At HealthPRO Pediatrics, A division of HealthPro Heritage, we are more than just a team—we are a family dedicated to empowering children, supporting families, and fostering growth. As a leader in pediatric therapy, we provide a purpose-driven environment where your skills and compassion truly make a difference.
Responsibilities
- Patient Assessment: Patient Assessment: Evaluate clients' physical, emotional, and cognitive abilities using observations and standardized tools.
- Treatment and Education: Create personalized treatment plans to meet clients' goals and enhance their functional abilities. Educate clients and their families on improving daily activities, including the use of adaptive equipment and environmental modifications.
- Documentation: Maintain accurate records of evaluations, progress, and treatment plans, ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards.
- Advocacy and Support: Advocate for clients' needs and support them in accessing community resources, services, and accommodations.
Qualifications
- Education: Degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited institution.
- Licensure: Valid state licensure as an Occupational Therapist, or license eligible
- Skills: Strong clinical assessment and diagnostic skills. Proficient in developing and implementing effective treatment plans. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a patient-centered approach.
- Physical Requirements: Ability to lift and assist patients as needed. Must be able to stand for extended periods and perform physical tasks related to therapy.
HealthPRO Heritage and its subsidiaries provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, HealthPRO Heritage and its subsidiaries comply with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
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Frequently asked questions
Porterville's demand for school-based Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants is growing, fueled by increasing awareness of pediatric therapy needs. While competition exists, candidates with pediatric experience and COTA licensure find favorable opportunities in local school districts and therapy providers.
California requires a valid COTA license to practice in schools, alongside adherence to state educational regulations. Additional credentials in pediatric occupational therapy or school-based therapy methods can enhance employability, especially in regions like Porterville with diverse student needs.
A school-based COTA evaluates children's motor and cognitive skills, designs tailored interventions to improve functional independence, assists with adaptive equipment, and collaborates with educators to integrate therapy goals into classroom activities, fostering holistic child development.
Entry-level COTAs can advance by gaining specialized pediatric certifications, taking on mentorship roles, or transitioning into licensed occupational therapist positions. HealthPRO Heritage’s supportive culture encourages continuous education, enabling career progression within pediatric therapy.
HealthPRO Heritage invests in mentorship programs and ongoing training tailored to pediatric occupational therapy, fostering a collaborative environment. This support helps COTAs enhance clinical skills, stay current with best practices, and build confidence in delivering child-centered care.
HealthPRO Heritage emphasizes a family-like culture focused on teamwork, respect, and open communication. Their commitment to high-quality clinical outcomes and tailored professional growth opportunities distinguishes them from typical pediatric therapy providers.
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants in Porterville typically earn between $68 and $70 per hour at HealthPRO Heritage, reflecting competitive compensation aligned with experience and specialized pediatric skills within the school-based therapy sector.
COTAs often engage in physically supportive tasks like lifting or assisting children, standing for extended periods, and managing therapy equipment. Maintaining stamina and ergonomic practices is essential to ensure effective care without injury.
Many assume COTAs only perform exercises, but their role extends to detailed assessments, personalized treatment planning, family education, and advocacy. They play a vital part in helping children overcome diverse physical and cognitive challenges.
Porterville may present unique cultural and resource-related challenges due to its demographic diversity. COTAs here often need adaptable communication strategies and creativity in leveraging community resources to maximize therapy effectiveness.