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Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)
Company : HealthPRO Heritage
Location : Dekalb, IL, 60115
Job Type : Full Time / Part Time
Date Posted : 6 January 2026
Overview
HealthPro Heritage has a great PRN Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) Opportunity in Dekalb, IL. Occupational Therapist (OTR) opportunity for PRN hours too!
- COTA Wage Range: $35-$38 per hour (based on experience)
- Excellent Advantages of working in Senior Living:
- Autonomy and flexible schedule.
- Diverse clinical exposure with outpatient and wellness offerings.
- Float to ALF in Sycamore
Why Choose HealthPro Heritage?
- Purpose-Driven Work: Be part of a mission-driven organization dedicated to compassionate care and innovative therapy solutions.
- 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 Heritage, we offer a fulfilling career where you can positively impact lives and achieve personal and professional growth. As a therapist-led, diverse organization, we provide clinical services across various settings, including nursing facilities, retirement communities, hospitals, home care, schools and clinics. Join us to be part of a team that values your skills, listens to your input, and makes a meaningful difference in the community.
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
A COTA in Dekalb works closely with occupational therapists to implement personalized treatment plans that enhance patients' daily living skills, such as dressing and mobility. This hands-on support encourages autonomy in seniors and diverse patient groups within healthcare and senior living environments.
To work as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant in Illinois, candidates must hold NBCOT certification and secure state licensure or eligibility. These credentials ensure adherence to professional standards and legal requirements, enabling safe, effective therapy delivery.
Absolutely. COTAs can expand their expertise through specialized training in areas like pediatric or geriatric occupational therapy, gain leadership roles in therapy teams, or move toward occupational therapist licensure, enhancing career flexibility and professional development.
HealthPRO Heritage offers COTAs a mission-driven culture emphasizing compassionate care, continuous learning, and collaborative teamwork. Employees benefit from flexible schedules, diverse clinical exposure including outpatient and wellness services, and a supportive environment valuing their contributions.
At HealthPRO Heritage, COTAs collaborate with physical therapists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to deliver holistic patient care. This team approach fosters comprehensive treatment strategies and patient education, enhancing therapeutic outcomes.
COTA positions in Dekalb generally offer between $35 and $38 per hour, reflecting experience and qualifications. This competitive pay aligns with local healthcare standards and supports a balanced career in occupational therapy assistance.
Dekalb's aging population and diverse healthcare facilities create steady demand for skilled COTAs. Local senior living communities and rehabilitation centers often seek certified assistants to support therapy programs, making it a promising job market.
Many COTA jobs in Dekalb, including at HealthPRO Heritage, offer flexible scheduling and PRN opportunities, helping professionals manage commute times effectively. Local transit options and proximity to retirement communities also influence daily travel considerations.
While foundational COTA certification suffices, additional training in pediatric or outpatient therapy enhances employability and versatility in Dekalb’s healthcare settings. It broadens the scope of practice, catering to various patient needs across clinics and schools.
A frequent misunderstanding is that COTAs only assist with basic tasks. In reality, they actively implement intricate therapy plans, monitor patient progress, and educate families under the supervision of occupational therapists, playing a critical role in patient recovery.