Occupational Therapist

Who We Are

For over 60 years, Abilities First, Inc. has been empowering individuals with developmental disabilities to live their most vibrant, independent lives. From early education to adulthood, our wide range of services—including preschool and school programs, day and residential habilitation, community connections, and employment services— are designed to uplift every individual's unique strengths and dreams.

We believe in the power of people—of every background, identity, and ability—to create change and build a more inclusive world. Abilities First is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is welcoming and supportive of people of varying abilities, races, ethnicities, religions, socio-economic status, gender and gender identities. At Abilities First, you'll join a mission-driven team that values collaboration, celebrates individuality, and is dedicated to meaningful work. If you're ready to turn your passion into purpose, we'd love to welcome you aboard.

Who We Need

We are looking for patient, energetic and passionate Occupational Therapist for our Wappingers Falls School program. This is an opportunity to work with an interdisciplinary team, focusing on the educational programming for all school-age children at every level of ability. 

Schedule: Monday- Friday 8:00am-3:00pm, 35 hours per week, 48 weeks per year (includes a 6-week summer program)

Annual Salary: $65, $66,271.00

Responsibilities:

• Performs all initial evaluations and periodic re-evaluations and determines appropriate short and long-term goals for students on caseload.
• Plans and implements appropriate occupational therapy program.
• Schedules assigned caseload in conjunction with classroom staff and other related services.
• Evaluates new referrals to determine need for service.
• Responsible for written documentation as required by school and preschool policies. Must adhere to paperwork deadlines, agency forms, and content.
• Assesses student's needs (in collaboration with clinical an educational staff as indicated) Responsible for recommending, fabricating, and adapting equipment for assigned caseload, according to Abilities First, Inc. policies and with assistance from equipment technician.
• Responsible for regularly communicating with parents, classroom staff, and related service personnel, regarding individual students' program and progress. 
• Informs appropriate staff and parent/primary caretaker of need for periodic reassessment of student by a physician. 
• Participates in staff meetings, team meetings, and parent/teacher conferences when indicated.
• Supervises COTA's as assigned by Administrative Staff.
• Participates in supervision and training of Occupational Therapy and Occupational therapy Assistant affiliating students as assigned by Administrative Staff
• As requested, attends CSE annual reviews and other such meetings relating to child's therapy needs in the educational setting
• Assists in maintenance of treatment sites. 
• Provided departmental in services when indicated. 
• Must have a current NYS driver's license, free of moving violations (amendable to Class E); deemed acceptable by our insurance carrier. 
• Ensures that employees follow the Code of Ethical and Legal Behavior and conform to the strictest standards of Corporate Compliance and HIPAA, as well as all federal, state, local and municipal laws and regulations. 
• Follows all agency policy and procedures and demonstrates continuous regard to personal safety and the safety of others. 
• Performs other appropriate job-related activities as requested by your supervisor or as circumstances warrant. 
• Adheres to State Education rules and regulations. Preschool employees must adhere to Office of Children and Family Services policies
• Have the ability to lift up to 50 lbs., bend, squat, bend the knees, pivot and grasp with both hands (in order to properly and safely perform the techniques taught in CPR/First Aid, behavior intervention techniques, and lifting and carrying techniques).
• Lift individuals by using appropriate techniques, including but not limited to usage of tools to assist, such as the Hoyer Lift.
• Assist individuals in ambulation by providing physical assistance, including use of a gait belt or other equipment where necessary.
• Have the ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time.
• Have the ability to push, pull, and maneuver students in wheelchairs.
• Possess verbal and written communication skills, in English, to ensure adequate health and safety and regulatory documentation requirements.

Perks & Benefits: 

• Time to Recharge – Personal, sick, and holidays built around the school calendar
• Health & Wellness – Medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you covered
• Plan for The Future – 401(k) with employer match and employer-paid life insurance
• Level Up Your Skills– Tuition reimbursement and online training through the College of Direct Support (and to boost your      earning potential)
• Get Paid When You Need It – On Demand Pay gives you access to earnings as early as the next day
• Exclusive Extras – Employee discounts with Verizon, AT&T, Royal Carting, and more

• BS/MS Degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited college required.
• Licensed, or eligible for licensure, with NYS Department of Education required.
• Clean driver's license that is deemed "acceptable" by our insurance carrier.
• Handle with Care, CPR, SFA, and Med Certification a plus. Ability to obtain these certifications required.
• Background check by NYS OPWDD required.
• Lifting and maneuvering of individuals is required. 
• Have the ability to push and pull students in wheelchairs, lift, bend, squat, turn in the knees, pivot and grasp with both hands (in order to properly and safely perform the techniques taught in CPR/First Aid, behavior intervention techniques, and lifting and carrying techniques), with or without a reasonable accommodation. 

A Note on Qualifications:

At Abilities First, we recognize that talent and potential come in many forms. If this position inspires you but your experience does not align with every preferred qualification, we still encourage you to apply. You may be the right candidate for this role—or another opportunity within our organization