Occupational Therapist Intern

About PLN Founded on Skid Row in 1980, Para Los Niños provides education and wraparound support, serving over 10,000 children, youth, and families annually in some of the most underserved areas in Los Angeles. PLN fosters pathways to success by striving for excellence in education, family support, and comprehensive social-emotional, and community-based services.  Through early education, TK-8th grade education, youth workforce services, and family and community services Para Los-Niño’s’ model provides a comprehensive, holistic approach to break the cycle of poverty and help children and youth thrive.  Position Overview  - Temporary End Date of 4/11/25; 1x/week Under the supervision of the Occupational Therapist, the level I fieldwork student will observe treatment sessions, obtain knowledge about how occupational therapy services are administered within the school-based setting, and will work alongside the Occupational Therapist in preparing and carrying out session activities with students.  Duties   Observe and assist the occupational therapist (OT) during therapy sessions with students. Help prepare and clean up materials and equipment needed for therapy sessions. Actively engage in the learning process by asking clarifying questions related to treatment plans and therapy techniques. Observe and take notes on the note-writing process to understand documentation standards and practices. Observe and learn about the evaluation and testing procedures used during therapy sessions. Seek guidance and feedback from the supervising OT to enhance understanding and skills. Participate in team discussions and debriefing sessions to reflect on the student’s progress and experiences. Maintain professional conduct and confidentiality in all interactions. Demonstrate a willingness to learn and adapt to different therapeutic approaches based on the needs of the students. Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Other Characteristics   Currently pursuing an Occupational Therapy Masters or Doctorate degree from an accredited college or university.   Ability to nurture respectful relationships with families and children and be sensitive to the cultural and socioeconomic characteristics. Knowledge of child abuse mandates. Good communication and interpersonal skills. TB test clearance within the last 6 months. Reliable transportation to the school site. Physical Requirements   To perform this job the individual must be able to carry out all essential functions satisfactorily.    Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individual with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.     Approximately 50% of time is spent sitting, while frequently required to walk, stand and bend.   Must be able to speak and hear well.     Good vision is imperative.     Occasionally required to stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl.     Employee will be required to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds without assistance.  TB test clearance to be renewed every two years.   Verification of Immunizations required by the California Department of Health (Pertussis, Measles and Influenza).  This job description does not encompass all essential functions and responsibilities. Para Los Niños reserves the right to modify or add to the typical duties of a position at any time. Expectations for All Para Los Niños Staff   Candidates for employment at Para Los Niños, regardless of position, will consistently demonstrate the following:   Unwavering belief in and commitment to fulfill the mission of Para Los Niños.   Deep commitment to the success of all PLN students and families.   Commitment to excellence and high standards -- for self, students, and colleagues.   Continuous learning by engaging in reflection, self-assessment, and individual professional development.   Use of data to inform decisions and drive continuous improvement.   Ability to thrive as a member of a collaborative team.   Self-motivation and initiative with solutions-oriented disposition.   Belief in and ability to develop respectful relationships with families and children informed by the students’ cultural and socioeconomic characteristics.   Excellent oral and written communication skills.   Ability to effectively handle challenging situations.   Comfort with basic Microsoft Office applications and a curiosity and propensity to push own adoption of new technology and approaches.   Regular, punctual attendance and professional appearance.   Para Los Niños is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer     It is the established policy of Para Los Niños (PLN) to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees without discrimination with regard to race, religious belief (including dress or grooming practices), color, sex, sex stereotype, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions (including breast feeding), age, national origin (including possessing a driver’s license issued under Vehicle Code § 12801.9), ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identification and expression, transgender status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic characteristics, genetic information, family care, marital status, enrollment in any public assistance program, status as military, a veteran or qualified disabled veteran, status as an unpaid intern or volunteer, or any other classification protected by law. PLN also prohibits discrimination based on the perception that anyone has any of those characteristics or is associated with a person who has or is perceived as having any of those characteristics.