Onward Education is a specialized education staffing and talent solutions company that helps educators, therapists, and school health professionals find top jobs with the nation's leading schools. We're partnering with a school district in Cook County, Illinois to hire a dedicated School-Based Occupational Therapist (OT) for the 2026–2027 school year .
This full-time, onsite opportunity offers the chance to make a meaningful impact supporting students across general education, special education, and self-contained programs. As a School-Based Occupational Therapist, you'll help students develop the functional, sensory, fine motor, visual motor, and adaptive skills needed to access their educational environment and participate successfully throughout the school day.
Position Details:
- Location: Onsite in Cook County, IL
- Schedule: Full-Time, Monday–Friday
- Hours:
- Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 8:00 AM – 3:45 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- School Year: 2026–2027
- Student Population: 1st–6th Grade
Responsibilities:
- Provide occupational therapy services aligned with students' IEP goals and educational needs.
- Conduct evaluations, reevaluations, and assessments to identify functional and educationally relevant needs.
- Develop and implement individualized treatment plans that support student participation and success within the educational setting.
- Support students in areas including fine motor skills, visual motor integration, handwriting, sensory processing, self-regulation, adaptive functioning, and classroom participation.
- Recommend and implement adaptive equipment, assistive technology, and environmental modifications as appropriate.
- Collaborate with teachers, families, special education staff, and related service providers to support student progress and educational access.
- Participate in IEP meetings and multidisciplinary team discussions.
- Monitor student progress and adjust interventions to support achievement of IEP goals.
- Maintain accurate documentation and ensure compliance with district, state, and federal requirements.
Qualifications:
- Master's degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program
- Active Illinois Occupational Therapist license issued by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR)
- Current NBCOT certification
- School-based or pediatric occupational therapy experience preferred
- Knowledge of IDEA, IEP development, special education regulations, and school-based service delivery models
- Strong assessment, documentation, communication, and collaboration skills
- Ability to work effectively with students, families, educators, and multidisciplinary teams
What We Offer:
- Competitive pay and benefits package.
- Access to a wide network of schools and districts for diverse placement options.
- Streamlined hiring process to get you started quickly.
- Ongoing communication and advocacy throughout your placement.
- Personalized support from dedicated recruiting professionals.
- Opportunities for professional growth and development.
Why Apply?
If you're passionate about helping students succeed and thrive in the school environment, this is the opportunity for you! Join a collaborative team committed to supporting student access, independence, and meaningful participation in the classroom and throughout the school day.
Ready to Join Us?
Apply today – we can't wait to hear from you!