TITLE: Occupational Therapist (OT)Autism Nova Scotia is a provincial leader in advancing inclusion, understanding, and opportunity for Autistic people and their families and caregivers. We deliver person-directed, neuro-affirming supports across the lifespan through our network of Regional Autism Centres in Halifax and nine communities across the province.Our work is grounded in First Voice leadership, community partnership, and a strong commitment to establishing equity for rural, racialized, and other underserved communities. Through programs that promote social and community inclusion, employment support, and family and caregiver support, we work to reduce barriers, strengthen community capacity, and create pathways for Autistic Nova Scotians to learn, work, live, and belong.DEPARTMENT: QuickStart Nova ScotiaREPORTS TO: QuickStart NS Director, QuickStart NS ManagerTYPE OF EMPLOYMENT: Full-time, PermanentJob SummaryQuickStart Nova Scotia is a parent-mediated coaching program that empowers caregivers of toddlers with a suspected, provisional, or confirmed diagnosis of Autism to support their child's development.We are seeking a full-time Occupational Therapist (OT) to join our interdisciplinary QuickStart Nova Scotia team. The OT will deliver a combination of in-person across the Central and Northen zones, and virtual services across the province. In-person sessions will take place within a 1.5-hour one-way travel radius from the Central Zone, Halifax, and Northern Zone, Truro, base office.The OT will support both the primary service QuickStart NS parent coaching program, serving children aged 12-36 months, and the limited-service QuickStart NS ESDM (Early Start Denver Model) program, serving children aged 12-41 months. Both programs are interdisciplinary, routine-based, and grounded in evidence-based practices.Key ResponsibilitiesProvide consultation and coaching to families using parent-mediated, routine-based strategiesDeliver OT support aligned with the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM)



and complete relevant training and fidelity requirementsAttend weekly team meetings and collaborate across disciplinesConduct assessments using the ESDM Curriculum ChecklistMake OT-informed recommendations based on observation of parent-child interaction and family goalsSupport team members with strategies and referrals grounded in OT best practicesTravel locally within region for in-person consultations; periodic travel across Nova Scotia requiredParticipate in annual and onboarding training sessionsQualificationsGraduate of a World Federation of Occupational Therapy (WFOT)-approved Occupational Therapy programLicensed or eligible for licensure with the College of Occupational Therapists of Nova Scotia (COTNS)Member of the Nova Scotia Society of Occupational Therapists (NSSOT)Registered or eligible for membership in the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT)Minimum 3 years' experience working with families and preschool-aged childrenExperience supporting individuals with Autism (3+ years preferred)Familiarity with natural environment teaching, including Pivotal Response Treatment and the Early Start Denver ModelAdditional Skills and CompetenciesExcellent communication and interpersonal skillsStrong observation, problem-solving, and independent work capabilitiesAbility to collaborate effectively within an interdisciplinary teamUnderstanding of limits of competency and when to seek consultationProficiency in Microsoft Office SuiteKnowledge of community-based service delivery systemsCompetency in other languages is an asset (Arabic and/or French preferred)Ability to fulfill the physical requirements of the role (e.G., lift up to 50 lbs, participating in floor-based activities that require sitting, kneeling,



and transition to and from the floor)Certifications and RequirementsCurrent CPR-C and First Aid certificationMaintain Crisis Management trainingValid Nova Scotia Driver's License and reliable vehicle for travelWorking ConditionsHalifax-based position with frequent local travel for in-person consultations within a 1.5-hour radiusHybrid service delivery model, including in-person and virtual supportPeriodic travel across Nova Scotia for training and team collaborationExposure to varied home and community environmentsRequires frequent lifting (up to 50 lbs) and physical activity during sessionsStandard working hours with flexibility to accommodate family schedulesMust be comfortable driving in various conditions, distances, terrains and regionsWhat to expect at Autism Nova Scotia...You'll celebrate the uniqueness of all individuals.Diversity is a fundamental part of our core values; we create every opportunity to become more inclusive. We encourage applications from qualified candidates from all diverse communities including, but not limited to, aboriginal persons, racially visible persons, people with disabilities, 2SLGBTQ+ and women in non-traditional roles.You'll make a difference.You'll be surrounded by passionate and committed individuals who work together to improve quality of life through our servicesYou'll find a place to grow and develop.We support professional development through training courses and support to help our professionals working with autistic people gain the knowledge they need to succeed and thrive. With a lot of prospect for professional development and collaborative projects, you'll continue to grow and learn throughout your career.Candidates selected for interviews will be contacted and expected to provide at least three recent, relevant references. The successful candidate maybe required to provide official transcripts to show proof of academic achievements where applicable.Please Note: We encourage and consider applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, religion, color, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, or those of other minority groups. Members of designated groups are encouraged to self-identify.

📌 Occupational Therapist (Halifax Regional Municipality)
🏢 Rise People
📍 Halifax Regional Municipality