Occupational Therapist

Description At Helping Hand, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and reach their fullest potential. We are seeking a compassionate, creative, and collaborative Occupational Therapist to join our interdisciplinary school team to serve students with autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and other complex learning needs.

This is more than a therapy role. It is an opportunity to make a lasting impact in the lives of students while working alongside dedicated educators, clinicians, and support professionals who are committed to transforming lives through genuine care and education.

As an Occupational Therapist at Helping Hand, you will evaluate, develop, and implement individualized therapy programs that help students strengthen the functional, sensory, motor, and daily living skills necessary for success both in and out of the classroom. This position is located within a therapeutic school setting and requires active participation throughout the school day. Responsibilities may include assisting students with physical needs, moving throughout classrooms and therapy spaces, facilitating activities, and responding appropriately in situations involving challenging behaviors. The ideal candidate is flexible, energetic, and committed to creating a safe and supportive learning environment for all students.

Schedule and compensation

On-site position, M-F, during normal school hours (weekdays) 40 hours per week, full-time Salary range $71,000-$82,000/year (salaried/exempt) Salary based on skills and experience. Up to 8% annual bonus potential. 403b retirement plan with up to a 4% company match.

Helping hand perks

Purpose-driven work that changes lives. Team member appreciation events and year-round recognition. Traditional medical (BCBS of IL), dental, and vision insurance. Employer-paid Group Life/AD&D, Short-Term, and Long-Term Disability. Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and wellness support. Generous PTO, including paid holidays, vacation, and accrued sick time. PSLF-qualifying employer under the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

What you'll do

Conduct occupational therapy evaluations and assessments to identify student strengths and areas for growth. Develop individualized treatment plans for therapy goals aligned with students' IEPs. Provide direct occupational therapy services in both individual and group settings. Collaborate with teachers, behavior specialists, speech-language pathologists, physical therapists, and other members of the interdisciplinary team to create meaningful educational programming. Participate in IEP meetings, domain meetings, classroom team meetings, and progress reviews. Create therapy materials and adaptive supports that promote student success. Provide consultation, coaching, and training to classroom staff regarding sensory, motor, and functional skill development. Assist in addressing students' sensory and functional needs within the classroom environment. Facilitate social skills groups and other therapeutic groups as appropriate. Partner with parents, guardians, and caregivers by providing home programming and recommendations to support skill development beyond the school setting. Complete documentation, progress reports, and evaluations in accordance with school and regulatory requirements. Stay current on evidence-based practices and emerging trends in occupational therapy and special education. Other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Requirements

WHAT YOU BRING: Education/Training: Bachelor's degree required, Master's degree preferred. Current State of Illinois License for Occupational Therapist (IDFPR).

Experience

• Experience working with children and adults ages 3-22 years. Experience with autism spectrum disorders and other diagnoses (i.e., Intellectual disability, Developmental delay, etc.). Experience conducting assessments and developing individualized treatment plans. Experience providing individual and group therapy services.
• Skill
• Sets: Strong communication, collaboration, organization, and time management skills. Ability to fulfill all necessary training requirements of the agency, including but not limited to crisis management (crisis management training includes de-escalation strategies and physical management techniques). Ability to conduct and interpret assessments via team and individual evaluations. Ability to plan and conduct individual and group therapies. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Ability to promote and adhere to company values. A commitment to a diverse, inclusive, and equitable work environment.

Work environment

The person in this position needs to occasionally move about to assist clients/students, access file cabinets, office machinery, etc. The ability to observe details at a close range (within a few feet of the observer). Consistently position self to maintain files in file cabinets or assist clients/students. The ability to communicate information and ideas so that others will understand. Must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations. The person in this position may encounter clients exhibiting physical aggression; they must be comfortable working in periods of crisis and feel comfortable de-escalating individually or as a team.

Helping Hand is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. We believe that embracing our differences strengthens our community and enhances the quality of care we provide.