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$17

$29

$46

How much do assistant occupational therapist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant occupational therapist in the United States is $29.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.00 and $33.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Assistant Occupational Therapist vs Occupational Therapist?

AspectAssistant Occupational TherapistOccupational Therapist
CredentialsTypically requires a diploma or associate degree, supervised practiceRequires a bachelor's or master's degree in occupational therapy, licensure
Work EnvironmentAssists in therapy sessions, supports OT professionals in clinics, hospitals, schoolsConducts assessments, develops treatment plans, works independently with clients
Job ResponsibilitiesSupports OT activities, prepares materials, observes clientsPerforms evaluations, creates therapy programs, monitors progress

The main difference between an Assistant Occupational Therapist and an Occupational Therapist lies in their level of education, responsibilities, and independence. Assistants support therapists under supervision, while licensed occupational therapists independently assess and treat clients. Both roles are essential in healthcare and rehabilitation settings, but occupational therapists hold advanced credentials and greater responsibility.

Where do OTAs get paid the most?

Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs) tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare services, such as metropolitan areas and states with robust healthcare industries. Salaries can also vary based on experience, certifications, and the work setting, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, or skilled nursing facilities.

What are Assistant Occupational Therapists?

Assistant Occupational Therapists, often called Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs), are healthcare professionals who work under the supervision of licensed Occupational Therapists to help patients develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working. They assist in implementing treatment plans, guiding patients through therapeutic activities, and monitoring their progress. OTAs work in a variety of settings including hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, and nursing facilities, supporting individuals of all ages who face physical, developmental, or emotional challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Occupational Therapist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Occupational Therapist, you need a solid understanding of therapeutic techniques, anatomy, and patient care principles, generally supported by a relevant associate degree and state certification or licensure. Familiarity with adaptive equipment, therapy documentation software, and standardized assessment tools is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to motivate and communicate effectively with patients and healthcare teams set outstanding assistants apart. These skills and qualities are vital to support patient progress, maintain accurate records, and ensure effective collaboration within rehabilitation settings.

What exactly does an occupational therapist assistant do?

An occupational therapist assistant (OTA) works under the supervision of an occupational therapist to help patients develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working. They implement treatment plans, assist with exercises, and use therapeutic activities to support patient progress in settings like hospitals, clinics, or rehabilitation centers.

Can occupational therapy help with Parkinson's?

An Assistant Occupational Therapist can play a key role in helping individuals with Parkinson's disease improve daily functioning by developing strategies to manage motor symptoms, balance, and coordination. They often use therapeutic activities, adaptive equipment, and environmental modifications to support independence and quality of life.

Who makes more money, OTA or PTA?

Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs) generally earn higher salaries than Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs), as OTAs often have a broader scope of practice and may require additional certifications. Salary differences can vary based on location, experience, and work setting, but OTAs tend to have higher average wages in the healthcare field.

What are some common challenges Assistant Occupational Therapists face when supporting clients in diverse settings?

Assistant Occupational Therapists often work with clients from varied backgrounds and with different levels of ability, which can present challenges in adapting therapeutic activities to meet individual needs. Balancing administrative tasks, such as maintaining accurate documentation, with hands-on client care is also a frequent challenge. Additionally, assistants must effectively communicate and collaborate with supervising occupational therapists, families, and other healthcare professionals to ensure cohesive care plans and positive client outcomes.
More about Assistant Occupational Therapist jobs
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What are the most commonly searched types of Occupational Therapist jobs? The most popular types of Occupational Therapist jobs are:
What states have the most Assistant Occupational Therapist jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Occupational Therapist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Occupational Therapist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Occupational Therapist jobs are:
Assistant Occupational Therapist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Occupational Therapist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 33% Full Time, 56% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,491 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant

Ambition 24Hours Inc

Laconia, NH • On-site

$39 - $45.50/hr

Contractor

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

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Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA)
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Location: Laconia, NH
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Assignment Dates:
Start Date: 05/11/2026
End Date: 08/08/2026
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Shift Details:
Shift Time: 08:00 – 16:30
Number of Shifts: 5 shifts per week
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Compensation & Hours:
Guaranteed Hours: 35 hours per week
Pay Rate: $39.00 – $45.50/hr
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Position Overview:
Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA)
Allied-Rehab
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Requirements:
Active Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA) license
Current BLS certification
Minimum 1 year of rehab or clinical therapy experience preferred
Strong patient care and communication skills
Ability to assist Occupational Therapists with treatment implementation
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Job Responsibilities:
Assist Occupational Therapists in implementing treatment plans
Support patients through therapeutic activities and functional training
Monitor and report patient progress to supervising OT
Assist with activities of daily living (ADLs) rehabilitation
Maintain accurate and timely clinical documentation
Support patient mobility and positioning
Ensure patient safety during therapy sessions
Follow facility policies and infection control procedures
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