Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant
Company : HealthPRO Heritage
Location : Lakeland, FL, 33803
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 8 January 2026
Overview
HealthPro Pediatrics has an exciting opportunity available for a Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant in Lakeland, FL!
- Full Time of Part Time available
- Pediatric out patient clinic in Lakeland, FL
- $25-28 an hour
- Monday to Friday schedule!
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 Care & Treatment Implementation: Assist in delivering individualized therapy based on treatment plans developed by the Occupational Therapist, including activities to improve daily living skills (e.g., dressing, eating, mobility).
- Progress Monitoring & Documentation: Track and document patient progress, maintaining accurate records in compliance with facility policies, and report changes or concerns to the Occupational Therapist.
- Collaboration & Patient Education: Work with interdisciplinary teams (e.g., PT, OT, nursing) to provide holistic care, and educate patients and families on therapeutic exercises, adaptive equipment, and strategies for independence.
- Therapeutic Activities & Support: Lead or assist patients with exercises, activities of daily living, and other therapeutic tasks, while creating a positive and supportive environment to encourage patient engagement.
Qualifications
- Education: Associate’s degree in Occupational Therapy Assistant program from an accredited school.
- Certification: Certification as an Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) through the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
- Licensure: Current state licensure (or eligibility) to practice as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant.
- Experience: Previous experience in an occupational therapy setting (hospital, clinic, school, etc.) is preferred, but new graduates are also encouraged to apply.
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
Lakeland, FL shows a steady need for Certified Occupational Therapist Assistants, especially in pediatric outpatient settings. Local healthcare providers focus on child development therapies, making opportunities viable but moderately competitive. Candidates with pediatric experience or relevant certifications tend to have an edge in this market.
Besides the national NBCOT COTA certification, Florida requires state licensure to practice as a Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant. Clinics often prefer candidates with pediatric therapy credentials or continuing education focused on child-centered approaches, enhancing their alignment with local care standards.
Certified Occupational Therapists typically design and oversee treatment plans, while assistants implement these therapies directly. In Lakeland pediatric clinics, therapists may also engage more in interdisciplinary coordination and family education, guiding assistants in tailored therapeutic activities.
Starting as a COTA in Lakeland opens routes toward specialization in pediatric therapy, advancing to Certified Occupational Therapist status, or branching into therapy management roles. Continuous education and hands-on pediatric experience significantly boost these growth prospects.
At HealthPRO Heritage, a Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant focuses on hands-on patient engagement, implementing therapy plans, and tracking progress, while other allied health roles may emphasize diagnostics, nursing care, or physical therapy. This hands-on pediatric focus demands strong interpersonal skills and adaptability.
HealthPRO Heritage offers tailored learning opportunities emphasizing pediatric occupational therapy, fostering skill enhancement through workshops, mentorship, and interdisciplinary collaboration. This support ensures assistants grow clinically while contributing effectively to child-centered care.
The position offers a competitive hourly rate between $25 and $28, aligning with Lakeland's pediatric therapy assistant market. This reflects the specialized skills required for pediatric outpatient care and the company's commitment to rewarding expertise.
HealthPRO Heritage accommodates both full-time and part-time schedules, recognizing diverse candidate needs. Part-time roles enable flexibility while maintaining involvement in meaningful pediatric therapy work, suitable for professionals balancing other commitments.
Certified Occupational Therapists typically lead patient and family education on therapy goals and adaptive strategies, while assistants reinforce these teachings through hands-on guidance during therapy sessions. This division ensures comprehensive support for child development in Lakeland clinics.
Florida mandates active state licensure for Certified Occupational Therapist Assistants, with some counties having additional continuing education requirements. Staying updated with the Florida Board of Occupational Therapy ensures compliance and smooth employment transitions in Lakeland.