Deadline:February 1, 2026District/Organization:Copper Country Intermediate School DistrictPosition/Type:Other, full timeSalary:$35,700 – $49,900 annual starting salary
Position DetailsThe Copper Country Intermediate School District (CCISD) seeks aCertified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)to join their team inHancock, Michigan. If you’re caring and dedicated to helping students reach their full potential, this may be a perfect fit for you.
In this position, you work side-by-side with our Occupational Therapist to support students in developing their fine and gross motor skills, coordination, and daily living abilities. Every day, you’ll make a difference by helping students gain independence and confidence—whether that’s through strengthening hand-eye coordination, improving sensory processing, or adapting classroom tools to make learning more accessible.
We believe in teamwork and growth—whether you’re experienced or a new graduate, you’ll find mentorship, collaboration, and professional development opportunities in a welcoming and encouraging environment.
WHAT WE OFFER.
- $35,700 – $49,900 annual starting salary based on education and years of experience.
- Health insurance, or if no health insurance is needed—-we’ll pay you $643.19/month instead (yes, even during the summer break).
- Dental, vision, life, and accidental death/dismemberment insurance at no cost to the employee; CCISD pays 100% of premiums.
- Additional optional insurance benefits available.
- Paid time off: sick days (10), personal days (4), and paid holidays (9).
- Retirement plan provided by the Michigan Public School Employees Plan.
- Professional development assistance and opportunities for advancement.
- Full-time school year position;summers off.
WHAT YOU’LL DO.
- Work under direction of an Occupational Therapist to provide therapy that supports students’ IEP goals.
- Adapt classroom tools and environments to improve student participation and success.
- Assist with evaluating students’ motor and sensory skills to identify strengths and areas for growth.
- Collaborate with teachers, therapists, and families to support each student’s individualized plan.
- Maintain accurate records and progress notes for compliance and communication.
- Keep therapy equipment clean, organized, and ready for use.
- Attend IEP meetings, workshops, and team discussions to share insights and learn best practices.
- Support students with hands-on guidance and encouragement as they work toward greater independence.
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR.
- An Associate’s degree or higher from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program.
- Current certification as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA).
- A compassionate, well-organized individual with strong communication skills.
- Someone who enjoys working as part of a multidisciplinary team in a school setting.
- Ability to lift or move equipment and assist students as needed.
- Someone with a desire to continually increase their knowledge and an unrelenting ability to make positive change in the lives of students.
HELP STUDENTS SUCCEEDwhile working in a community where your expertise is valued and your professional growth is supported. Take the next step and apply online at ccisd.hirescore.com
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WHY HANCOCK IS YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE.It is possible to have it all –summers offanda rewarding careercentered amongst the largest fresh waters on earth on a peninsula called the Keweenaw. Lake Superior provides the backdrop to adventure by land, lake, and sky. Make this vision a reality by considering this opportunity to make a difference in the lives of special needs students, surrounded by award winning school districts, and supported by a team of outstanding teaching professionals. The Copper Country Intermediate School District is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer.
E-mail:jody@stangds.comWebsite:LinkAttachments:CCISD-jpg-thumb-7.jpg
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Freqently Asked Questions
Hancock’s demand for Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants remains steady due to its strong emphasis on school-based therapy roles. While the community is smaller, specialized education districts like Copper Country Intermediate School District value dedicated professionals, making the competition moderate but favoring well-certified candidates with local experience.
Employers in Hancock, including MICHIGAN ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL BOARDS, prioritize candidates with current COTA certification recognized by Michigan licensing boards. Additional credentials related to pediatric or school-based therapy can enhance prospects, reflecting the specialized nature of occupational therapy assistant roles in regional educational settings.
A COTA in schools excels by adapting therapy techniques to student needs, collaborating closely with educators, and managing sensory-motor interventions. Proficiency in modifying classroom tools and supporting individualized education plans (IEPs) is crucial, alongside strong communication to engage students, families, and multidisciplinary teams effectively.
Starting as a COTA opens pathways toward becoming a licensed Occupational Therapist with further education. Experience in school settings also offers chances to specialize in pediatric therapy, take leadership in therapy teams, or engage in professional development programs that boost skills and career trajectory within educational healthcare services.
Daily tasks for a COTA center on hands-on support to students, assisting with motor and sensory skill development, and adapting therapeutic activities. The role involves documentation, collaboration in IEP meetings, equipment management, and regular communication with teachers and families to track progress and enhance student independence.
Working with MICHIGAN ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL BOARDS offers a supportive environment emphasizing mentorship and professional growth. The organization values teamwork in school districts like Copper Country ISD, providing summer breaks and comprehensive benefits that align with educational sector needs, fostering a balanced work-life dynamic.
The starting annual salary between $35,700 and $49,900 reflects competitive compensation in Hancock’s educational therapy sector. This range aligns with the cost of living and local demand, with additional perks like health insurance buyouts and fully covered premiums enhancing the overall remuneration package.
Yes, this role welcomes new graduates, offering mentorship and continuous professional development to bridge academic knowledge with practical skills. The supportive team environment at MICHIGAN ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL BOARDS encourages growth, making it ideal for those beginning their occupational therapy assistant careers.
A frequent misunderstanding is that COTAs only handle physical therapy tasks; however, the role is broader, encompassing sensory processing, fine motor skills, and adapting learning environments. Another myth is limited career growth, while in reality, school-based COTAs often access diverse advancement and specialization opportunities.
Hancock’s scenic location near Lake Superior and the Keweenaw Peninsula offers an outdoor lifestyle that complements the school-year schedule with summers off. This setting supports wellness and relaxation outside work hours, which is appealing for COTAs seeking a fulfilling career combined with quality personal time.
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