Occupational Therapist at Orange County Department of Education
About the Employer
The Orange County Department of Education (OCDE) serves some of Orange County’s most vulnerable student populations and provides support and mandated fiscal oversight to 28 school districts serving more than 600 schools and approximately 475,000 students. In addition to providing direct instruction to students through its own alternative and special education programs, OCDE administers an array of programs and services that are critical to the operations of local school districts and community colleges, facilitating professional development, legal guidance, payroll, career and technical education support, high-speed internet access, Local Control and Accountability Plan assistance and approval, resources for families, and student enrichment. OCDE’s vision is that “Orange County students will lead the nation in college and career readiness and success.” Department staff are working to achieve this goal in collaboration with educators at all levels of student development, from early childhood through higher education, and in partnership with families, businesses and community organizations.
Job Summary
Job Summary
The Orange County Department of Education is seeking a skilled and compassionate Occupational Therapist to support students with physical, developmental, or sensory disabilities in achieving greater independence within educational settings. As a key member of the educational team, this role focuses on assessing student needs, developing individualized therapy plans, and delivering services aligned with IEP goals. The Occupational Therapist will provide both direct and consultative services, participate in IEP meetings, document progress, and collaborate with educators, families, and specialists. Additional responsibilities include supporting therapy assistants, overseeing interns, and training school staff on classroom-based strategies. The ideal candidate will have school-based experience, strong communication skills, and a commitment to helping students access learning and life skills through tailored support.
Requirements / Qualifications
Education and Experience: Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be: • Master’s degree from an occupational therapy program accredited by the American Medical Association. • Valid license to practice as an Occupational Therapist in the state of California. • Current certification issued by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). • One (1) year of recent, full-time equivalent, school-based occupational therapy experience working with children with severe and physical disabilities, including pediatrics and sensory motor evaluation and training.
Requirements / Qualifications
Education and Experience: Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be: • Master’s degree from an occupational therapy program accredited by the American Medical Association. • Valid license to practice as an Occupational Therapist in the state of California. • Current certification issued by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). • One (1) year of recent, full-time equivalent, school-based occupational therapy experience working with children with severe and physical disabilities, including pediatrics and sensory motor evaluation and training.
Comments and Other Information
Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the completed online application.
Before receiving authorization to work in this position, the individual selected will be required to provide a current negative TB authorization, within the last 60 days, and submit fingerprints for the purpose of conducting a confidential background investigation and record check. The tests are arranged and paid for by OCDE.
The Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 requires employers to verify the employability of all new employees. Before the Department will finalize an offer of employment, the candidate selected will be required to show original documents which establish both the individual’s identity and employment authorization. The candidate must also sign a statement under penalty of perjury regarding his/her employability.
We reserve the right to reopen, readvertise, or delay filling this position.
AA/EOE/ADA
Comments and Other Information
Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the completed online application.
Before receiving authorization to work in this position, the individual selected will be required to provide a current negative TB authorization, within the last 60 days, and submit fingerprints for the purpose of conducting a confidential background investigation and record check. The tests are arranged and paid for by OCDE.
The Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 requires employers to verify the employability of all new employees. Before the Department will finalize an offer of employment, the candidate selected will be required to show original documents which establish both the individual’s identity and employment authorization. The candidate must also sign a statement under penalty of perjury regarding his/her employability.
We reserve the right to reopen, readvertise, or delay filling this position.
AA/EOE/ADA
Application Deadline
11/2/2026 11:55 PM Pacific
Date Posted
10/16/2026
Contact
Number of Openings
1
Salary
Pay Range
$9,031.84 - $11,000.76 Monthly
$9,031.84 - $11,000.76 Monthly
Length of Work Year
205 Days / 12 Months
Employment Type
Full Time
PAN #
2592
Supervisor
Stephanie Strietbeck