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Assistant Occupational Therapy Instructor Jobs in Wheaton, IL

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Assistant Occupational Therapy Instructor information

See Wheaton, IL salary details

$16

$31

$45

How much do assistant occupational therapy instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant occupational therapy instructor in Wheaton, IL is $31.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.49 and $35.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant occupational therapy instructor?

Assistant Occupational Therapy Instructors are educational professionals who support lead instructors in teaching students about occupational therapy principles and practices. They assist with classroom instruction, supervise clinical or lab activities, and help develop course materials. Their role is essential in ensuring students gain the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in occupational therapy programs. They may also participate in grading, mentoring students, and staying updated with current occupational therapy standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant occupational therapy instructor?

To thrive as an Assistant Occupational Therapy Instructor, you need a solid background in occupational therapy, often with a relevant degree and clinical experience. Familiarity with teaching platforms, therapy assessment tools, and documentation software is typically required. Strong communication, organizational skills, and the ability to motivate and mentor students are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure effective instruction, foster student engagement, and uphold educational and professional standards within occupational therapy programs.

What are the common challenges faced by an assistant occupational therapy instructor when supporting students during practical sessions?

Assistant Occupational Therapy Instructors often face the challenge of balancing guidance with allowing students to develop independent clinical reasoning skills. They must adapt their teaching style to accommodate diverse learning needs and skill levels within the group. Additionally, managing time effectively during hands-on activities and providing timely, constructive feedback are crucial to ensure students' growth and confidence. Collaboration with lead instructors and clinical supervisors is also essential to maintain consistency in teaching and assessment.

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

AspectAssistant Occupational Therapy InstructorOccupational Therapist
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's degree, certification as an assistantMaster's degree in Occupational Therapy, state licensure
Work EnvironmentEducational settings, clinical labs, supervised environmentsHospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, schools
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, training programsHealthcare facilities, private practices

The Assistant Occupational Therapy Instructor typically supports educational activities and assists in training students, requiring less advanced credentials. In contrast, an Occupational Therapist provides direct patient care, requiring a master's degree and licensure. Both roles are integral to occupational therapy education and practice, but they differ significantly in responsibilities and qualifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Occupational Therapy Instructor jobs in Wheaton, IL?

The most popular types of Occupational Therapy Instructor jobs in Wheaton, IL are:

Assistant Occupational Therapy Instructor jobs near you

Pediatric Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) - Wheaton

Blue Bird Day

Wheaton, IL • On-site

$70K - $81K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Pediatric Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) - Therapeutic Preschool and Kindergarten Program

140 East Loop Road Wheaton, IL | Monday–Friday, 8 AM–4:00 PM - no evenings or weekends.

Compensation & Benefits

  • Total Compensation Package: Valued between $70,000–$81,000.
  • Annual Salary: $56,000-$65,000, based on experience and qualifications.
  • Annual Increases: Annual merit-based increases.
  • Comprehensive Benefits Packages: Medical, dental, and vision insurance, life and disability insurance, Flexible Spending Account (FSA), and employee assistance programs.
  • Paid time off and holidays: Generous PTO, 7 paid holidays, plus 1 floating holiday.
  • Growth and Learning: Continuing education and approved CEUs with annual reimbursement increases.
  • Professional Advancement: Opportunities to develop skills and take on additional leadership responsibilities, including: Department Head, Department Lead, Onboarder, and CPI Instructor, CPR Instructor
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan: Available for all employees; company match $1 for $1 for first 3% and $.50 for $1 up to another 2%.
  • Flexibility For New Parents
  • Free onsite parking

Apply today at threebirdsonemission.com/careers to join our mission of empowering children with neurodiverse needs to succeed!

About the Role

As a Pediatric Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) at Blue Bird Day, you will provide occupational therapy to children ages 2-7 years old with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, sensory processing disorder, and other neurodiverse needs. You'll foster each child's sensory processing and integration, motor coordination, fine motor development, and independence.

Responsibilities:

  • Providing individualized therapy and therapeutic rotations
  • Implementing client-centered therapeutic approaches such as DIR/Floortime, Intentional Relationship Model (IRM), and reflex integration
  • Collaborating daily with physical and speech therapists, and social workers
  • Documenting progress and communicating with families to support continuity of care

Knowledge and Skills Required:

  • Required credentials to practice OT therapy
  • Experience working with children and/or clients with special needs preferred
  • Competencies: proactive problem-solving, results-oriented, worksmanship, resourceful, and clear communicator

Why Join Blue Bird Day?

This is an opportunity to provide evidence-based, play-focused pediatric therapy in a collaborative, innovative environment designed to help children thrive. You'll make an impact by collaborating with a multidisciplinary team in a clinic that prioritizes growth therapeutic interventions.

Please see our full Pediatric Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) job description attached to this posting, along with details of our competitive benefits package.

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