Job Details

Make an Impact in Illinois Schools

TactStaff EDU is seeking passionate and dedicated Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs) to join school districts throughout Lake County, Illinois for the 2026-2027 school year. Multiple openings are available across K-12 caseloads, allowing candidates to find the setting that best matches their experience and interests.

Whether you enjoy working with elementary students, middle school populations, or transition-age learners, we have opportunities designed to help you make a meaningful difference in students' academic and functional success.

Position Overview

As a School-Based Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant, you will:

• Provide occupational therapy services under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist and in accordance with students' IEPs
• Implement treatment plans and interventions developed in collaboration with the supervising OT
• Assist students in developing fine motor, sensory, self-help, visual-motor, and school participation skills
• Monitor and document student progress toward IEP goals
• Collaborate with Occupational Therapists, teachers, special education staff, administrators, and families
• Participate in IEP meetings and multidisciplinary team discussions as appropriate
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation in compliance with district, state, and federal requirements
• Follow treatment plans, goals, and recommendations established by the supervising Occupational Therapist
• Travel between school sites if assigned to multiple campuses

Caseload Options Available

• Early Childhood
• Elementary School
• Middle School
• High School
• Transition Programs
• Resource and Self-Contained Programs
• Mild/Moderate and Moderate/Severe Populations

Specific caseload details will be discussed during the interview process.

Compensation

• Competitive weekly gross pay
• Weekly direct deposit
• Competitive compensation packages based on experience and assignment

TactStaff EDU Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) with company match (where applicable)
• Dedicated Clinical and Recruiting Support
• Professional Development Resources
• Referral Bonus Opportunities
• Credentialing and Onboarding Assistance
• Access to School-Based Career Opportunities Nationwide

Qualifications

Required:

• Associate Degree from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program
• Active Illinois Occupational Therapy Assistant license issued by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR)
• NBCOT COTA Certification (or eligibility)
• Ability to work under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist
• Ability to obtain and maintain all district onboarding requirements
• Previous pediatric or school-based experience preferred but not required

Preferred:

• Experience working within school settings
• Knowledge of IEP processes and special education environments
• Experience implementing pediatric occupational therapy interventions
• Strong collaboration and communication skills

Illinois School Requirements

To provide occupational therapy assistant services in Illinois schools, candidates must hold an active Illinois Occupational Therapy Assistant license through IDFPR and provide services under the appropriate supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist. Some districts may also require additional school-specific clearances, background checks, and onboarding requirements.

Why TactStaff EDU?

At TactStaff EDU, we connect exceptional therapy professionals with rewarding educational opportunities. Our team understands the unique demands of school-based practice and provides personalized support from application through assignment completion.

Apply today to secure your start and join a team committed to helping students thrive.