Eleutheria·Lakewood, Washington
Conduct occupational therapy evaluations and deliver direct therapy services to K-12 students in a school setting. Collaborate with special education staff and families while maintaining accurate IEP documentation and progress reports.
School Occupational Therapist Position | 2026-2027 School Year | Full Time Starting in August 2026 | Up to $65/hour | Lakewood, WA
Ampersand Therapy is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Occupational Therapist (OT) for an in-person school-based position in Lakewood, Washington for the upcoming 2026-2027 school year. We are a local, women- and therapist-founded company that values empowerment, community, and support for both students and therapists. This position offers the opportunity to work within a collaborative special education team while making a lasting difference in the lives of K–12 students.
Full time K-12 - School Setting August/Sept 2026 for the 26-27 School Year In-person candidates only
Conduct occupational therapy evaluations and develop individualized treatment plans Deliver direct therapy services to students with diverse needs in a school setting Collaborate with special education staff, families, and other service providers Write and maintain accurate IEP documentation, progress reports, and service logs Attend IEP meetings and contribute to student support planning Manage and prioritize caseload effectively
Washington State OT License (or willingness to obtain quickly) ESA (Educational Staff Associate) Certification (or willingness to obtain) Previous school-based OT experience is a plus but not a requirement (new grads welcome!) Strong communication, organization, and teamwork skills Commitment to inclusive, student-centered care
Medical, dental, and vision insurance (for 0.8 FTE or higher) 401(k) with employer match (up to 4% total match) Paid sick leave Mileage reimbursement at IRS rate if traveling between work sites Reimbursement for CEUs, licenses, and professional development W-2 employee status General and professional liability insurance included Referral bonuses No non-compete agreement Paid volunteer time and donation matching for nonprofits Support and mentorship from experienced school-based therapists About Ampersand Therapy We’re a small but passionate team of therapists serving school districts in a variety of states coast to coast. Our roots are in Western Washington where our company was founded! As a women-run company founded by school therapists, we’re on a mission to create a supportive, flexible, and values-driven alternative to large staffing firms. When you join Ampersand Therapy, you’re part of a community that understands your work because we do it too. Our Core Values: Equity & Inclusion: Creating a diverse and inclusive environment for all Community Impact: Supporting nonprofits and empowering our team to give back Environmental Responsibility: Committed to reducing our carbon footprint and supporting sustainable practices Ampersand Therapy is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment and sense of belonging for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or any other identity characteristics. We encourage all qualified individuals to apply and join our team.
Requires a Washington State OT License and ESA Certification, or the willingness to obtain them quickly. New graduates are welcome, though previous school-based experience is a plus.
Market context
Washington school-based Occupational Therapist roles often draw steady interest because districts need clinicians who can support student access, participation, and related services across the school year. These positions can be competitive when they require a Washington OT license and ESA certification, even though new graduates are welcome and school-based experience can help. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your licensure status and be ready to explain any plan to obtain ESA certification quickly.