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Posted 20 July, 2026

Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA)

Life Care Center of South Hill
Washington, DC, US Full Time

Job Description

Job Description

Job Type: Full-time, PRN

Salary Range: $33 - $40, $41.20/hr based on experience

Available Schedules: Tuesday - Saturday, Sunday - Thursday

Benefits (for full-time employees):

  • Continuing Education Credits (CEUs) and reimbursement for state licensing
  • Flexible work schedules
  • Opportunities for career growth and advancement into leadership positions
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company matching
  • Paid vacation, six holidays, one personal day, and sick leave that starts accruing immediately
  • Life insurance and short/long-term disability coverage
  • Medical, dental, vision, and Health Savings Accounts

Work Environment & Population Served:

Our facilities function as Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs) that offer:

  • Long-term care for residents needing ongoing skilled support and compassionate daily assistance
  • Short-term, sub-acute rehabilitation for individuals recovering from surgery, illness, or injury
  • Collaborative care through a team-based approach involving nursing, therapy, and medical staff
  • A diverse patient demographic including those with orthopedic, neurological, cardiopulmonary, and post-acute needs

The patient mix may vary slightly by location. As a therapy professional, you will assist patients in achieving functional improvements and enhancing their quality of life in a supportive, patient-focused setting.

Position Overview

The Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA) delivers direct rehabilitation services in occupational therapy to patients referred by physicians, under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist (OT), in compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and organizational standards.

Education, Experience, and Licensing Requirements
  • NBCOT certification required upon hiring; renewal is optional thereafter
  • Graduate from an accredited occupational therapy program (ASOT)
  • Must be currently registered or licensed in the applicable state, maintaining an active license in good standing throughout employment
  • One (1) year of experience preferred; new graduates are encouraged to apply
  • CPR certification required upon hiring or to be obtained during orientation; must remain current during employment
Specific Job Responsibilities
  • Engage in community health initiatives and projects as appropriate
  • Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and email communication
  • Coordinate with patients, families, and support departments to effectively address patient needs
  • Consistently demonstrate proper body mechanics
  • Make independent decisions when necessary
  • Familiar with practices, procedures, and regulations governing operations in post-acute care facilities
  • Implement and interpret departmental programs, goals, objectives, policies, and procedures
  • Exhibit proficiency in all competency areas, including patient rights, safety, and sanitation
  • Maintain professional relationships with colleagues, vendors, and others
  • Ensure confidentiality of all proprietary and sensitive information
  • Adhere to company policies, including those related to harassment and compliance
  • Exhibit integrity and professionalism by following the organization’s Code of Conduct and completing mandatory compliance training
Essential Duties
  • Implement occupational therapy treatment plans as directed by the supervising OT
  • Document patient progress accurately and in a timely manner
  • Utilize therapy software effectively and accurately
  • Provide excellent customer service and maintain a positive attitude towards patients
  • Assist in the safe evacuation of patients when necessary
  • Demonstrate reliable and consistent attendance
  • Employ reasoning skills and sound judgment in all situations
  • Collaborate effectively within an interdisciplinary team
  • Engage in various physical activities such as sitting, standing, bending, lifting, pushing, pulling, stooping, walking, reaching, and moving intermittently throughout the workday
  • Read, write, speak, and comprehend the English language

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.