Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)
Spellers Center Tampa | Trinity, FL
About Us
Spellers Center Tampa helps nonspeaking and unreliably speaking individuals with autism and other neurodevelopmental disabilities find their voice through the Spellers Method™ — a multidisciplinary approach integrating occupational therapy, developmental optometry, and low-tech assistive technology. Our occupational therapy program builds the intentional motor skills, self-regulation strategies, and daily living abilities our clients need to thrive — from self-care and academics to community engagement and job readiness.
We're looking for a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant to join our clinical team and help our clients build the motor and life skills that open the door to communication and independence.
About the Role
As a COTA at Spellers Center Tampa, you'll work under the supervision of our licensed occupational therapists to deliver hands-on, individualized motor and life-skills intervention. You'll support clients in our Intentional Motor Intensive program and as an add-on to Spelling Intensives, helping children and adults build the foundational motor control, sensory regulation, and daily living skills that are central to our mission.
This is a unique opportunity to work within an established, mission-driven, multidisciplinary model — mentored by experienced therapists — rather than a high-volume, generalist OT setting.
What You'll Do
- Implement individualized treatment plans developed by the supervising occupational therapist, focused on intentional motor skill-building
- Support clients in developing self-care skills (dressing, bathing, toileting, eating), academic and organizational skills, and community/social participation
- Assist with sensory regulation and co-regulation strategies for clients experiencing sensory overwhelm or high anxiety
- Coach and educate parents/caregivers so they can confidently practice strategies at home between sessions
- Document client progress accurately and in a timely manner, in line with clinical and billing requirements
- Collaborate closely with OTs, spelling practitioners, and other members of the multidisciplinary team
- Support virtual Intentional Motor sessions as needed
- Maintain a safe, structured, and engaging treatment environment for clients of all ages and ability levels
What We're Looking For
- Active Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) license in the state of Florida (or eligibility to obtain)
- Current NBCOT certification in good standing
- Experience working with individuals with autism, apraxia, sensory processing differences, or other neurodevelopmental disabilities preferred
- Comfort working with nonspeaking or minimally speaking clients, and a willingness to learn the Spellers Method
- Strong communication skills, patience, and a genuine passion for helping clients and families build independence
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team
- CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
Perks & Benefits
- Flexible scheduling to fit your life
- Continuing education reimbursement to support your ongoing professional growth
- Mentorship and training within an established, specialized treatment model
- A collaborative, mission-driven team environment
- The opportunity to make a lasting impact on nonspeaking individuals and their families
Pay: $30.00 - $35.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Continuing education credits
- Flexible schedule
- Opportunities for advancement
Work Location: In person
