ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Assistant Occupational Therapist Jobs in Decatur, GA

The Weston Group, Inc.

Occupational Therapist

Smyrna, GA · On-site

$39.25 - $51.50/hr

Treatment approaches utilize occupational modalities, supervision of occupational therapist assistants and/or rehabilitation techs, and/or exercise to relieve pain and/or restore function.

Emory Healthcare

Occupational Therapist

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$39.25 - $51.75/hr

Occupational Therapist II Be inspired. Be rewarded. Belong. At Emory Healthcare. At Emory Health ... Participates in quality assurance activities. * Assist the department in performing peer reviews ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAssistant Occupational Therapist JobsAssistant Occupational Therapist Jobs in Decatur, GA

Assistant Occupational Therapist information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$16

$28

$45

How much do assistant occupational therapist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant occupational therapist in Decatur, GA is $28.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.42 and $32.84 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.

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.

Who gets paid more, OTA or PTA?

Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs) generally earn higher salaries than Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs), as OTAs often have additional responsibilities and may require different certifications. Salary differences can vary based on location, experience, and work setting, but OTAs tend to have a higher median pay 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, GA? The most popular types of Occupational Therapist jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Occupational Therapist jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Occupational Therapist jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Assistant Occupational Therapist jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Assistant Occupational Therapist job openings:
Assistant Occupational Therapist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Occupational Therapist job openings in Decatur, GA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,036 per year, or $28.9 per hour.

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

Your Health Organization

Marietta, GA • On-site

$27.25 - $36.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Responsibilities:

  1. Assist occupational therapists in planning, implementing, and evaluating individualized treatment programs to help patients develop, regain, or maintain their ability to perform daily activities.
  2. Work directly with patients to carry out therapeutic exercises, activities, and interventions designed to improve motor skills, mobility, strength, coordination, and sensory processing.
  3. Collaborate with occupational therapists to modify treatment plans based on patient progress, goals, and changing needs.
  4. Instruct patients and their families on exercises, adaptive equipment usage, and techniques to promote independence and functional abilities in daily living tasks.
  5. Document patient progress, treatment interventions, and outcomes accurately and timely in accordance with regulatory and facility guidelines.
  6. Assist in the procurement and maintenance of adaptive equipment and assistive devices to support patient rehabilitation goals.
  7. Maintain a safe and clean therapy environment, adhering to infection control protocols and ensuring equipment safety.
  8. Communicate effectively with interdisciplinary team members, including occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, nurses, and physicians, to coordinate patient care and goals.
  9. Stay current with best practices, research findings, and advancements in occupational therapy through continuing education and professional development activities.
  10. Uphold ethical standards and professional conduct as outlined by relevant regulatory bodies and professional organizations.

Qualifications:

  1. Associate degree from an accredited occupational therapy assistant program.
  2. Current certification as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) issued by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
  3. State licensure or eligibility for licensure as a COTA.
  4. Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
  5. Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
  6. Compassion, patience, and empathy when working with patients facing physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges.
  7. Attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate documentation.
  8. Physical stamina and dexterity to assist patients with mobility and physical activities.
  9. Knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and ethical guidelines governing occupational therapy practice.
  10. Prior experience in a healthcare or rehabilitation setting may be preferred.