COTA - Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant at Sierra Home Health and Hospice – Las Cruces, New Mexico

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title

Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant

Job Category

Field Primary - Direct Care

Job Purpose

You are joining a team shaped by five generations of care — where values like trust, transparency, and collaboration guide everything we do. Whether you serve patients directly or support those who do, your role helps bring out the courage in others.

Job Summary

Deliver skilled, compassionate rehabilitation services that help patients regain function, independence, and quality of life.

Job Specific Duties

• Provide occupational therapy interventions as delegated and supervised by a licensed Occupational Therapist (OT), in accordance with an individualized plan of care
• Deliver maintenance therapy services under a maintenance program established by a qualified OT, within the scope of practice defined by state licensure laws
• Implement therapy techniques to improve patient function, reduce disability, and promote independence in daily living activities
• Instruct patients and caregivers in prescribed home programs, fine motor exercises, and adaptive techniques
• Monitor patient response to treatment and promptly report changes in condition, function, or safety concerns to the supervising OT
• Document services, progress, and communications in the EMR per CareM policy and regulatory requirements
• Collaborate with the interdisciplinary team during care planning and patient care conferences
• Participate in agency-sponsored in-service training and continuing education as assigned
• Contribute to Quality Assessment and Performance Improvement (QAPI) initiatives
• Maintain compliance with physician orders, state licensure regulations, and Medicare Conditions of Participation

Other Duties:

• Provide care and services in accordance with infection control, safety, and risk prevention protocols
• Accurately document clinical interventions, care coordination, and communication in a timely manner
• Participate in interdisciplinary meetings, case reviews, and continuing education opportunities
• Maintain compliance with HIPAA and all company privacy and confidentiality standards
• Represent the organization positively and professionally in patients’ homes and community settings
• Work independently with minimal daily oversight and demonstrate initiative in completing responsibilities
• Provide courteous, timely, and professional customer service to patients, families, and partners
• Exhibit adaptability to changing responsibilities and flexibility in completing assignments
• Demonstrate consistent and effective use of organizational technology systems and tools required for the role, including communication, documentation, productivity, and data management platforms
• Adhere to all organizational policies, including job descriptions, mission, and the Employee Handbook
• Communicate and interact professionally and respectfully with others to support team goals
• Perform all other duties as assigned and as required to effectively discharge the responsibilities of the position and are in the best interests of the company

Work Environment

Primarily works in the field

Supervisor

Occupational Therapist and Clinical Manager - Home Health

Supervises

• None

Risk Level

Patient care or physical work with injury risk

Qualifications

• Graduate of an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program (ACOTE-recognized)
• Current certification from the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT)
• Certified or licensed to practice as a COTA in the state of practice
• Two (2) years of clinical experience preferred home health experience a plus
• Ability to carry out delegated care plans and communicate effectively with the supervising OT
• Strong interpersonal skills with patients, caregivers, and clinical team members
• Basic computer proficiency; ability to use EMR systems
• Commitment to quality, regulatory compliance, and professional ethics in home-based care
• Reliable transportation, valid driver's license, and auto insurance for patient home visits

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to stand, walk, bend, and assist with mobility or equipment as needed. Requires the ability to perform heavy lifting and to travel locally in various weather conditions.