Occupational Therapist - Special Education

Department of Human Resources

Job Title: Occupational Therapist Wage/Hour Status: Exempt

Reports to: Coordinator, SE Motor Team Pay Grade / Days: AP03, 187 Days

Dept./School: Special Education Date Revised: July 2026

Primary Purpose: Plan and provide therapy to students with mental, physical, or emotional disabilities. Provide therapeutic intervention to maximize physical or mental functioning, increase independent functioning, and/or adjust to disabilities.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification: Valid Texas license as an occupational therapist granted by the Texas Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners (TBOTE)

Special Knowledge/Skills: Knowledge of rehabilitation procedures, activities, and equipment used in occupational therapy Ability to instruct students and manage their behavior Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

Experience: Six months experience as an occupational therapist Major Responsibilities and Duties:

Therapy

1. Plan and provide direct and consultative services consistent with occupational therapy goals contained in students' Individual Education Plans (IEP). Evaluate student progress and make recommendations regarding occupational therapy services.
2. Design, construct, alter, and provide students with adaptive equipment and devices to promote maximum independence.
3. Assess students with disabilities and determine eligibility for services.

Consultation

4. Present staff development in assigned school as requested. Conduct one- on-one consultation with teachers, parents, and others to assist with selection and use of adaptive equipment and material that will enhance student learning. Student Management
5. Create an environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the maturity level, interests, and needs of the student.
6. Establish control and administer discipline according to the Student Code of Conduct and student handbook.

Hays Consolidated Independent School District

Program Management

7. Participate in the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee to assist with the interpretation of assessment data, appropriate placement, and goal setting for students according to district procedures.
8. Develop and coordinate a continuing evaluation of the occupational therapy program and implement changes based on the findings.

Administration

9. Compile, maintain, and file all reports, records and other documents required.
10. Comply with policies established by federal and state law, State Board of Education rule, and local board policy. Comply with all district and campus routines and regulations.
11. Follow district safety protocols and emergency procedures.

Supervisory Responsibilities: Supervise the work of the occupational therapy assistant(s).

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors: Tools/Equipment Used: Special needs adaptive equipment; standard office equipment including computer and peripherals Posture: Frequent standing, sitting, kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing pulling, and twisting Motion: Frequent walking, grasping/squeezing, wrist flexion/extension Lifting: Regular heavy lifting (45 pounds or more) and position of students with physical disabilities; controlling behavior through physical restraint, assisting no ambulatory students Environment: Exposure to biological hazards, bacteria, and communicable diseases; may require districtwide travel Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress EEOC Statement: Hays Consolidated I.S.D. will not discriminate against any person in employment or exclude any person from participating in or receiving benefits of any of its activities or programs on any basis prohibited on the bases of race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), sexual orientation, parental status, national origin, age, disability, family medical history or genetic information, political affiliation, military service, or any other non-merit based factor. These protections extend to all management practices and decisions, including recruitment and hiring practices, appraisal systems, promotions, and training and career development programs.

This document describes the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required. Positions are extended annually based upon availability of funding. Signature of acknowledgement indicates a receipt of aforementioned information.

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