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Assistant Occupational Therapist Jobs in Decatur, AL

COTA

Madison, AL · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Where Passion Meets Pediatric Progress Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA) - Pediatrics Madison , AL | Full-time Are you ready to make therapy fun, impactful, and full of heart? We're ...

COTA

Madison, AL · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Where Passion Meets Pediatric Progress Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA) - Pediatrics Madison, AL | Full-time Are you ready to make therapy fun, impactful, and full of heart? We're ...

COTA

Madison, AL · On-site

Salary: $20-25/hr DOE Where Passion Meets Pediatric Progress Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA) Pediatrics Madison , AL | Full-time Are you ready to make therapy fun, impactful, and ...

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Assistant Occupational Therapist information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$16

$27

$43

How much do assistant occupational therapist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant occupational therapist in Decatur, AL is $27.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.41 and $31.54 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Occupational Therapist jobs in Decatur, AL? The most popular types of Occupational Therapist jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Occupational Therapist jobs in Decatur, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Occupational Therapist jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Assistant Occupational Therapist jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Assistant Occupational Therapist job openings:
Infographic showing various Assistant Occupational Therapist job openings in Decatur, AL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 38% Full Time, 53% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,645 per year, or $27.7 per hour.
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) - Home Health - Full Time

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) - Home Health - Full Time

Enhabit Home Health & Hospice

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$28.25 - $37.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Enhabit Home Health & Hospice rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 77 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 228 rated social care providers


Job description

Overview
Looking for a career that makes a difference every day?
Discover a rewarding career at Enhabit Home Health & Hospice, one of the nation's largest home-based care providers. Consistently recognized as a great place to work, Enhabit delivers exceptional care and fosters a collaborative culture that supports professional growth and ongoing development.
With strong organizational stability, a commitment to excellence, and careers rooted in purpose, Enhabit empowers team members to build forward-moving careers while expanding what's possible for care in the home.
The Enhabit Advantage:
Enhabit offers competitive benefits designed to support well-being and help employees thrive in every stage of their careers. Eligible employees receive:
  • Generous paid time off for full-time employees
  • 401(k) matching
  • Medical, dental and vision coverage
  • Supplemental insurance options
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Incentive bonus opportunities
  • Continuing education and scholarship opportunities

Responsibilities
The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant is a qualified professional who, under the supervision of the Director of Nurses and licensed Occupational Therapist, provides therapy services to clients in their homes under the Plan of Care established by the Occupational Therapist.
Qualifications
1. Must be a licensed Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant in the state in which he/she practices.
2. Must have dependable transportation, and be able to drive in all weather conditions.
Additional Information
Enhabit Home Health & Hospice is an equal opportunity employer. We work to promote differences in a collaborative and respectful manner. We are committed to a work environment that supports, encourages and motivates all individuals without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, disability, national or ethnic origin, military service status, citizenship, genetic information, or other protected characteristic. At Enhabit, we celebrate and embrace the special differences that makes our community extraordinary.

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Enhabit Home Health Hospice logo

About Enhabit Home Health Hospice

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Enhabit Home Health & Hospice, founded and based in Dallas, TX, is a trusted provider in the health care industry, specifically delivering outstanding home health and hospice services. Enhabit makes it their mission to provide holistic care, putting the needs and comfort of patients first. Their services range from skilled nursing, therapy and home health assistance, to hospice care and support for patients and families navigating end-of-life stages. Enhabit delivers its services with utmost dedication, embodying their core values of empathy, integrity, resilience, and quality in every interaction.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Dallas, TX, US

Year founded

1998

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