Duties
Job Description
Northwestern Illinois Association (NIA) is a regional governmental agency that provides special education support to 68 school districts across Northwestern Illinois. Our mission is to partner with schools to meet the unique needs of students, and we empower our team with professional growth opportunities, comprehensive benefits, and a values-driven culture.
The Occupational Therapist works 180 days per year for 7.5 hours per day and earns $57,469 - $101,985, depending on experience. In this role, the OT will support students in school settings by assessing their needs, developing individualized plans, and implementing interventions to help them succeed academically, socially, and physically.
Occupational Therapist Job Duties:
- Conduct evaluations: Assess students' motor, sensory, and functional abilities to identify areas of need and develop individualized therapy plans.
- Provide direct services: Deliver targeted occupational therapy interventions in accordance with students' IEPs, helping them achieve academic and developmental goals.
- Collaborate with school teams: Work closely with teachers, administrators, and other specialists to create supportive learning environments tailored to students' unique needs.
- Maintain records: Document assessments, progress notes, and reports in compliance with school district and state regulations.
- Participate in IEP meetings: Contribute to the development of IEPs by offering insights on motor development, sensory needs, and appropriate accommodations or modifications.
Qualifications
Education and Licensure
1. Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctorate degree from an accredited program in physical or
occupational therapy.
2. Illinois licensure or the ability to practice in Illinois as determined by the Illinois
Department of Professional Regulation.
Salary/Benefits
Occupational Therapist Benefits:
- Group Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance: Available for employees working 0.75 FTE or more, with PPO and HSA options.
- Defined-Benefit Pension Plans: As a local governmental agency, NIA OTs who work more than 600 hours per year participate in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF), providing a stable, defined-benefit pension that ensures financial security in retirement.
- Learn more about IMRF at (https://www.imrf.org/
- Additional Retirement Savings Options: NIA also offers access to 403(b) and 457 retirement savings plans. These are optional, employee-funded plans that provide additional opportunities for tax-advantaged savings, helping you build a more robust retirement strategy.
- Paid Personal Leave and Sick Leave: Based on the number of days worked.
- Telemedicine: Access to 1800MD telemedicine services at no cost.
- Summer Work Opportunities: Opportunities to pick up additional summer work and earn extra pay.
- Summers Off with Year-Round Pay
- $3,000 Signing Bonus
- Expert Feedback and Evaluation: Receive guidance and evaluation from leaders who understand your expertise
- Ready Access to Equipment and Testing Materials
- Ongoing Professional Development: Enhance your knowledge and skills for school-based services
- Collaborative Environment: Engage in monthly meetings, roundtable discussions, and collaboration time with colleagues
- Regular 1:1 Check-Ins: Stay connected with your NIA leaders through regular check-ins and team meetings
Medical/Dental/Vision
Employee assistance program
Flexible spending account
Health savings account
Life insurance
Paid time off
Parental leave
Professional development assistance
Retirement plan
Additional Notes
Why NIA?
At NIA, we don’t just talk about our values—we live them. As a member of our team, you’ll be part of a positive culture that prioritizes collaboration, integrity, innovation, excellence, and service. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Mission-Driven: We are deeply committed to partnering with schools to meet the unique needs of students, making a real difference in their lives every day.
- Leadership in Education: Serving 68 school districts across Northern Illinois, NIA is recognized as a leader in providing exceptional special education support.
- Innovation: We continuously improve our services and embrace new technologies to enhance education and meet the evolving needs of our students.
- Employee-Focused: We invest in your growth with professional development opportunities, a supportive work environment, and recognition of your contributions.
- Quality of Life: Live and work in Northern Illinois, known for its beautiful landscapes, vibrant communities, and easy access to Chicago.
Link to District/Third Party Online Application Web Page
https://www.thenia.org/employment/