Occupational Therapist I (2025-2026)

ABOUT OUR DISTRICT

The Syracuse City School District is undergoing a new phase of innovation and transformation with the goal of ensuring that all students graduate high school with the skills needed to be ready for college and career. For Syracuse, all means all - including students who fall behind or have been considered "hard to serve" for a host of reasons. The School Board and Syracuse community have charged the Superintendent with improving student achievement, and he is seeking a dedicated and diverse team of school leaders and teachers to partner with him in moving the district toward its goals. The Syracuse City School District represents 34 schools and 4 alternative education programs, serving 19,000+ students Pre-K-12 of whom 77% qualify for free or reduced-price lunch, 18% are served by the Office of Special Education and 78% are students of color.

Location: Department and Locations will be vary depending on availability.  DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

The work involves responsibility for conducting an occupational therapy program for the treatment of pupils with physical and/or motor disabilities in a school district. This is a professional position involving responsibility for pupil evaluation, development of treatment plans, and providing occupational therapy treatment in accordance with written prescription or referral from a physician who provides medical direction, as well as direction from professional school staff. May supervise Occupational Therapy Assistants as assigned. Does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

• Instructs pupils in handicrafts, educational or hobby interests planned and administered for diversion, concentration, and improvement of vocational aptitudes.
• Supervises and administers special exercises to improve pupils’ physical disabilities with emphasis on preparation for vocational and educational experiences.
• Observes pupils engaging in activities and provides strategies to facilitate the pupil’s full participation.
• Works with pupils to improve their performance in a variety of learning environments and to perform better by using adaptations/accommodations.
• Consults with professional school staff as to capacity and needs of pupils.
• Maintains supplies, materials and equipment; requisitions materials; makes recommendations for purchasing equipment.
• Keeps accurate, correct records on aptitudes and progress of pupils.
• Competes appropriate Individualized Education Program (IEP) documents for pupils receiving occupational therapy.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

• Good knowledge of the principles, methods, materials and equipment used in occupational therapy.
• Good knowledge of materials and equipment required for progressive therapy programs.
• Ability to apply principles and practices of occupational therapy.
• Ability to plan, direct and lay out activities adapted to pupils’ specific disabilities.
• Ability to keep accurate, correct records.
• Patience and understanding.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Licensed* and currently registered by the New York State Education Department as an Occupational Therapist.

* Limited permit - although not eligible for permanent appointment, candidates in possession of limited permits issued by the New York State Education Department may be employed on a temporary basis under conditions specified by the New York State Education Department.

WORKING HOURS: This position will work 35 hours per week, 10 months per year. This position is considered full-time and is non-exempt. SALARY/COMPENSATION:

• The current starting salary range is based in the Unit 1 Contractual Agreement. Salary is based on experience, education and may range from $54,795-$95,715. Occupational Therapist I may also be eligible for additional compensation for time worked during the summer.  

QUALIFICATIONS:

• The successful candidate will be required to pass a fingerprint-based background check, at the cost of $102.50 to the candidate.
• All applicants must be on the current Onondaga County Civil Service list for this title. 
  • This position is listed under Continuous Recruitment .

• Pediatric/early intervention experience and training preferred.

The Onondaga County Civil Service job description for this positio