First Children Services·Plainfield, New Jersey
Collaborate with school personnel to implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and provide high-quality occupational therapy services to students with multiple disabilities. Responsibilities include conducting assessments, delivering individualized and group therapy, and maintaining accurate progress documentation for reimbursement.
First Children Services is seeking a dedicated and professional Occupational Therapist to join our team at the First Children School in Plainfield, NJ. In this role, you will collaborate with school personnel to support the goals outlined in students’ Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and deliver high-quality Occupational Therapy services. The ideal candidate is passionate about helping students thrive in the least restrictive environment through direct intervention, consultation, documentation, and coordination with a multidisciplinary team. First Children School in Plainfield, NJ is a New Jersey Department of Education approved private special education school, serving students in grades PreK through high school. We specialize in educating students with multiple disabilities including those who are medically fragile, developmentally, intellectually, or physically disabled, deaf or hard of hearing, and/or visually impaired. Job Responsibilities:
Partner with teachers, therapists, and school staff to achieve IEP goals.
Participate in faculty meetings, special education sessions, and parent-teacher conferences.
Deliver services using multiple models, including classroom-based, consultation, and pullout.
Provide individualized and group therapy based on evidence-based practices.
Maintain accurate records of daily sessions, progress reports (triannual), and annual IEP documentation.
Submit timely and accurate documentation for third-party reimbursement.
Conduct and interpret informal and curriculum-based assessments.
Present findings and service recommendations to IEP teams.
Develop and implement individualized interventions to address student needs.
Offer information and strategies to school staff and families regarding fine motor skills and feeding challenges.
Supervise Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants, interns, and volunteers.
Ensure effective use and maintenance of therapy equipment and resources.
Foster a respectful, inclusive, and confidential school environment.
Stay current on statewide testing procedures.
Create and manage therapy schedules, ensuring timely completion of documentation.
Participate in continuing education and meet CEU requirements for licensure.
Adhere to company policies and procedures.
Perform other duties as assigned.
This role will be part of the instructional team, reporting to the school principal.
Basic
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited institution.
Current New Jersey Occupational Therapy license.
NJ Department of Education Certification.
Ability to communicate effectively in English (written and spoken).
Strong interpersonal skills to build relationships with students, families, and colleagues.
Physical ability to assist with student needs, including emergency evacuations.
Demonstrated professionalism and a commitment to ongoing development.
Our benefit package includes medical, dental, and vision plans, vacation/sick pay, life insurance, short & long-term disability, access to EAP and discount plans, 401(k) retirement plan, and employee referral bonus plan.
First Children Services is comprised of a dedicated team of professionals committed to providing the very best services day in and day out. We integrate a variety of effective techniques along with family involvement to achieve optimum results. At First Children Services, children and their families with the most extraordinary challenges are met with compassion, dedication and determination. EEO: First Children Services is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Our agency prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type 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. First Children Services is committed to being an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer and offers opportunities to all job seekers including individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, email us at recruitment@firstchildrenservices.com. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition ID number of the position for which you are applying.
Requires a degree in Occupational Therapy (Bachelor's, Master's, or Doctoral) and a current New Jersey Occupational Therapy license. Candidates must also hold NJ Department of Education Certification and possess the physical ability to assist students.
Market context
Occupational Therapist roles in New Jersey schools are typically in steady demand because districts need support for students with fine motor, sensory, and daily living needs. These positions are competitive when candidates bring a current New Jersey OT license, NJ Department of Education certification, and the physical ability to assist students. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm licensure and certification details before applying.