University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Location
Fort Smith, Arkansas
The Occupational Therapist provides evidence-based fine motor assessments and therapy techniques for children aged birth to five years within an interdisciplinary team. They are responsible for documenting services, managing billing, and collaborating with families and healthcare staff to support developmental outcomes.
Candidates must hold a Master's degree in Occupational Therapy or a Bachelor's degree with two years of experience. Applicants must be certified or eligible for certification by the NBCOT and possess or be eligible for an Arkansas Occupational Therapy license.
08/01/2026 Type of Position: Other Health Care - Rehabilitation Therapy Job Type: Regular Work Shift: Sponsorship Available: No Institution Name: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) has a unique combination of education, research, and clinical programs that encourages and supports teamwork and diversity. We champion being a collaborative health care organization, focused on improving patient care and the lives of Arkansans. UAMS offers amazing benefits and perks (available for benefits eligible positions only): Health: Medical, Dental and Vision plans available for qualifying staff and family Holiday, Vacation and Sick Leave Education discount for staff and dependents (undergraduate only) Retirement: Up to 10% matched contribution from UAMS Basic Life Insurance up to $50,000 Career Training and Educational Opportunities Merchant Discounts Concierge prescription delivery on the main campus when using UAMS pharmacy Below you will find the details for the position including any supplementary documentation and questions you should review before applying for the opening. To apply for the position, please click the Apply link/button. The University of Arkansas is an equal opportunity institution. The University does not discriminate in its education programs or activities (including in admission and employment) on the basis of any category or status protected by law, including age, race, color, national origin, disability, religion, protected veteran status, military service, genetic information, sex, sexual preference, or pregnancy. Questions or concerns about the application of Title IX, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, may be sent to the University’s Title IX Coordinator and to the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights. Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment. All application information is subject to public disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act. For general application assistance or if you have questions about a job posting, please contact Human Resources at askrecruitment@uams.edu.
Master's degree in Occupational Therapy or Bachelor's degree in Occupational Therapy plus two (2) years of experience in Occupational Therapy required. Certified by the National Board for Certification of Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) or eligible to apply for the examination. Current Arkansas Occupational Therapy License or eligible to obtain license within one (1) month of date of hire. Knowledge, Skills &Abilities: Excellent communication skills with adults and children. Must have the ability to function as a health care team member and operate within an interprofessional team. Intermediate computer skills (MS Office preferred).
Responsibilities: Provides fine motor assessment and treatment using evidence-based techniques in a naturalistic, developmentally appropriate manner. Evaluates to determine fine motor skills, visual perceptual motor skills, sensory processing and self-help skills in addition to upper extremity strength, range of motion, muscle tone, dynamic sitting/standing balance for functional task and trunk stability using appropriate diagnostic instruments. Also, determines the need for adaptive equipment and splinting needs. Reviews results of standardized scores along with informed clinical judgment and observations to make the correct diagnosis. Translates the obtained information into a professional, typed document along with treatment recommendations, developing appropriate goals and objectives as related to patient’s needs. Confers with the Medical Director when necessary regarding said results/recommendations. Implements direct therapy for children, based upon findings using evidence-based techniques. Monitors progress and makes modifications to treatment plan as needed. Documents services provided in a professional, timely manner. Prepares and provides billing documents according to KIDS FIRST and Medicaid guidelines on a weekly basis. Verifies accuracy billing documents through careful review of progress notes, treatment room sign-out forms, and child’s individual prescription requirements. Collaborates and communicates with families, other therapists, nurses, social workers, director, developmental staff, and contractors to provide the best quality of care and optimal outcomes for each child. Encourage families to take an active role in supporting their child’s development using the principles of Family Centered Care. Supports the academic mission of the Kids First program. This includes participation in the training of students and pre-service professionals, education and outreach to stakeholders, families served, and community partners. May include training and participation in research projects. Performs other duties as assigned. Salary Information: Commensurate with education and experience Required Documents to Apply: None
Proof of Veteran Status, Resume Special Instructions to Applicants: Recruitment Contact Information: Please contact askrecruitment@uams.edu for any recruiting related questions. All application materials must be uploaded to the University of Arkansas System Career Site https://uasys.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/UASYS Please do not send to listed recruitment contact. Pre-employment Screening
Adult Maltreatment, Child Maltreatment, Criminal Background Check, FBI Background Check This position is subject to pre-employment screening (criminal background, drug testing, and/or education verification). A criminal conviction or arrest pending adjudication alone shall not disqualify an applicant except as provided by law. Any criminal history will be evaluated in relationship to job responsibilities and business necessity. The information obtained in these reports will be used in a confidential, non-discriminatory manner consistent with state and federal law. Constant Physical Activity: Climbing, Crawling, Crouching, Feeling, Grasping, Reaching, Standing, Talking, Walking Frequent Physical Activity: Lifting, Manipulate items with fingers, including keyboarding, Talking Occasional Physical Activity: Sitting Benefits Eligible: Yes At the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), we are looking for health care and non-health care professionals who believe in excellence as a way of life. If you think you have the skills and commitment to succeed at the highest level, consider a career at UAMS, the state’s only academic health sciences center. Combining diverse talents and expertise, our employees work together to provide advanced patient care. We currently have a wide variety of positions available, from patient care to support staff- we may have the perfect position for you. UAMS is Arkansas’ only comprehensive academic health sciences center. We educate and train the vast majority of the state’s physicians and prepare doctors, scientists, nurses, pharmacists and health professionals through innovation, compassion, teamwork and patient- and family-centered care so they can impact the world. UAMS rewards its nurses! Statewide opportunities are available in direct patient care, education, and research settings. We offer Bonus Programs, Hotel Lodging, New Graduate RN Residency and support for Clinical Ladder, National Certification, Shared Governance, and Recognition Programs to name a few. Go to nurses.uams.edu for more details. The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for students, faculty, staff, visitors, and prospective employees. The below report is provided in compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act) and the Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA). The report will provide you with information on campus safety and security including information on various policies and procedures for reporting crime, safety and security prevention and protection programs, victim assistance services, fire safety, and other materials to assist you in maintaining your safety and security. www.uams.edu/police.
Market context
Pediatric occupational therapy roles in Arkansas are often competitive because employers look for licensed clinicians who can support children’s functional goals and work closely with families and school or clinic teams. This posting requires an Arkansas OT license plus NBCOT certification or eligibility, and the benefits package includes sick leave, retirement, life insurance, dental, and vacation leave. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to quickly compare fit before you apply, then confirm your licensure status and pediatric experience in your application.
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