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Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant information

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

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for certified occupational therapy assistant in the United States is $32.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.40 and $36.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectCertified Occupational Therapy AssistantOccupational Therapist
CredentialsAssociate's degree, NBCOT certificationBachelor's, master's or doctoral degree, NBCOT certification
Work EnvironmentAssist in therapy sessions under supervision, clinics, hospitals, schoolsLead therapy plans, evaluate patients, supervise assistants, clinics, hospitals, schools
Job RoleImplement treatment plans, assist patients with activitiesDevelop treatment plans, evaluate patient progress, oversee assistants

The main difference between a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant and an Occupational Therapist lies in their education, responsibilities, and level of independence. Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants support therapists by implementing treatment plans and assisting patients, while Occupational Therapists develop plans and oversee patient care. Both roles work in similar environments, but the Occupational Therapist holds a higher level of responsibility and requires advanced education.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a certified occupational therapy assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA), you need an associate degree from an accredited program and national certification, along with strong knowledge of rehabilitation techniques and patient care. Familiarity with therapy documentation software, adaptive equipment, and electronic health record (EHR) systems is typically required. Excellent communication, empathy, and teamwork skills help COTAs effectively support patients and collaborate with occupational therapists. These skills and qualities ensure effective therapy delivery, accurate reporting, and positive outcomes for clients' daily living and independence.

How do certified occupational therapy assistants typically collaborate with occupational therapists and other healthcare professionals in a clinical setting?

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs) work closely under the supervision of licensed occupational therapists to implement treatment plans tailored for each patient. They frequently collaborate with occupational therapists by providing feedback on patient progress and suggesting adjustments to interventions. Additionally, COTAs may interact with physical therapists, speech therapists, nurses, and family members to ensure holistic and coordinated care. This teamwork-focused environment helps ensure patients receive comprehensive support as they work toward their rehabilitation goals.

What does a certified occupational therapy assistant do?

A certified occupational therapy assistant helps patients during physical therapy treatments and rehabilitation exercises. They work with the patient's occupational therapist and physician to develop a treatment plan that fits the patient's needs. This can mean assisting with stretching exercises or helping a patient learn and adjust to assistance equipment. The duties and responsibilities of a certified occupational therapy assistant also include keeping detailed records of patient progress and health, and performing other administrative and organizational tasks.

What is a certified occupational therapy assistant?

A Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) is a healthcare professional who works under the supervision of an occupational therapist to help patients develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working. COTAs assist with implementing treatment plans, educating patients and their families, and documenting patient progress. They work with individuals of all ages who have physical, developmental, or emotional challenges, supporting them to achieve greater independence in their daily activities.
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Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,531 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

PRN Physical, Occupational, & Speech Therapy

Clifton Park, NY • On-site

$27 - $32/hr

Per diem

Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Description:

PRN Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy, an affiliate of The Weston Group, is dedicated to providing evidence-based, person-centered therapeutic services to residents. We are proud to remain a therapist-owned and operated company that believes in a unique and innovative approach to geriatric care.


We're looking for a Per diem Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA), a licensed professional who administers treatment plans according to the directives of the Occupational Therapist at the facility. The COTA assists the Occupational Therapist with patient documentation as directed by the Occupational Therapist.


- Several opportunities for Per Diem work throughout the capital district in assisted living, memory care and independent living settings


POSITION DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES

  • COTAs demonstrate skill in the use and proper choice of occupational therapy techniques and treats patients effectively with good response.
    • Maintains and enhances patient dignity and modesty during treatment.
    • Shows appropriate therapist-patient rapport explaining the treatments and discussing the reasons for occupational therapy with patient, etc.
    • Follows accepted precautions and contraindications for treatment.
    • Utilizes appropriate therapeutic techniques.
  • COTAs provide accurate and timely patient records.
    • Completes daily documentation procedures assuring that all services are appropriately accounted for from a clinical and billing perspective.
    • Communicates and documents significant changes in patient progress as a result of treatment and accepts modified treatment plan if needed.
    • Documents equipment provided, home programs and handouts given to the patient.
    • Documents all communication with physicians and POA concerning patient's status.
  • COTAs communicate with others maintaining a professional attitude to assure quality care.
    • If directed by the Occupational Therapist, contacts physicians as needed to clarify diagnosis or orders, change treatment, or discharge.
    • Consults patient's POA, nurses, social workers, physical and speech therapists, and physicians as appropriate and needed.
    • Notifies facility personnel and family as to use of equipment.
    • Attends patient related meetings in accordance with facility policy.
  • COTAs demonstrate knowledge of insurance guidelines as related to applicable rehabilitation services.
  • COTAs perform all other duties and functions necessary for the maintenance of efficient, economic and quality operation of the department.
    • Projects and maintains a professional appearance.
    • Makes suggestions for department improvement and assists in development of these as appropriate.
    • Demonstrates leadership qualities utilizing support personnel where appropriate to perform activities not requiring a licensed Occupational Therapist.

BENEFITS

  • 401K
  • Referral Bonus Policy
  • Flexible schedule
Requirements:

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants must possess an appropriate Associate of Science degree from an accredited institution.


LICENSURE OR REGISTRY REQUIREMENTS

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants must be licensed in the state practicing by the Board of Occupational Therapy and provide an acceptable Criminal Background Check.