Senior Occupational Therapist

Position Title: Senior Occupational Therapist
Location: Together Academy (based in Dublin 4 across a variety of sites)
Employment Type: Part time, 18 hours weekly
Contract Length: 1-year contract, subject to renewal
Reports To: Therapeutic Services Lead
Salary Range: Negotiable, Senior Level HSE pay scales taken into consideration.

Job Summary

We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Senior Occupational Therapist to join our team, supporting young adults with intellectual disabilities to achieve their personal and professional goals. In this role, you will design and implement individualised programs that promote independence, skill development, and workplace success, fostering an inclusive and empowering environment for our students and graduates. Working closely with our education and employment teams, you will support our students and graduates in reaching these tailored goals through individual and group work, and identifying environmental adaptation where necessary.

Key Responsibilities

1. Assessment and Planning
   • Conduct comprehensive assessments to identify clients’ strengths, needs, and vocational interests.
   • Develop individualised intervention plans focused on vocational skills, daily living skills, and community integration.
   • Collaborate with clients, families, employers and interdisciplinary teams to set achievable goals.
      
2. Skill Development
   • Provide hands-on support and training in vocational and pre-employment skills, including time management, task performance, communication, and problem-solving.
   • Facilitate adaptive strategies and interventions to support successful participation in work and community settings.
      
3. Workplace Integration
   • Partner with employers to create inclusive work environments, offering guidance on job modifications and workplace accommodations.
   • Assist clients in navigating the workplace, fostering positive relationships, and managing workplace challenges.
   • Complete workplace environment assessments where appropriate to further identity accommodations in the workplace.
   • Provide ongoing monitoring and support to ensure sustained success in employment.
      
4. Therapeutic Interventions
   • Utilise evidence-based occupational therapy techniques to promote functional independence for individual and group support.
   • Address sensory, motor, or cognitive challenges that may impact vocational performance.
      
5. Education and Advocacy
   • Educate students, families, and caregivers on strategies to promote independence and workplace readiness.
   • Advocate for the rights and inclusion of individuals with intellectual disabilities in community and work environments.
      
6. Documentation and Compliance
   • Maintain accurate records of assessments, interventions, and progress.
   • Ensure compliance with legal, ethical, and organisational standards.

Qualifications

Education and Licensure:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program in Ireland or recognised in Ireland.
• Current CORU licensure as an Occupational Therapist.

Experience:

• Minimum 3 years of experience working with individuals with intellectual disabilities, preferably in vocational or community settings.

Skills and Competencies:

• Strong understanding of intellectual disabilities and their impact on daily life and employment.
• Ability to perform workplace adaptability assessments.
• Proficiency in adaptive techniques, assistive tech, and workplace accommodations.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Organisational and problem-solving skills to manage diverse client needs.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certification or experience in sensory integration or other relevant specialties.
• Knowledge of local employment and community resources for individuals with disabilities.

Why Join Us?

Together Academy is a young and innovative organisation that provides tailored training and employment opportunities for adults with Down syndrome. Through our QQI accredited training, our pathways programme and further tailored clinical supports, our aim is to improve the employment prospects of our young adults.

• A supportive team environment committed to making a difference.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Comprehensive benefits, including generous annual leave, paid time off around Christmas and other holiday periods.
• HSE pay scale adjacent.

To Apply:

Please submit your resume, cover letter, and references to info@togetheracademy.ie. Closing date for applications: January 14th, 2025.

We are an equal-opportunity employer and value diversity in our workforce. We encourage applicants of all backgrounds to apply.