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Entry Level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant Jobs in Springfield, IL

Renewal Rehab

Occupational Therapy Assistant - FT

Taylorville, IL · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Must be a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to apply Employment Type: Full-Time Setting: Skilled Nursing Facility | Long-Term Care ✨ Exciting opportunity with Renewal Rehab! ✨ Join ...

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Entry Level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$17

$32

$46

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

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level certified occupational therapy assistant in Springfield, IL is $32.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.16 and $36.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level certified occupational therapy assistant do?

An Entry Level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) works under the supervision of an occupational therapist to help patients develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working. Their responsibilities often include assisting with treatment plans, documenting patient progress, and teaching patients exercises and activities that support their rehabilitation. Entry-level COTAs typically work in settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, schools, or outpatient clinics, and play a vital role in helping clients achieve greater independence. They also collaborate closely with therapists, patients, and families to ensure the best possible outcomes.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant, you need a solid understanding of therapeutic techniques, anatomy, and patient care, typically supported by an associate degree from an accredited OTA program and national certification (COTA). Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems and rehabilitation equipment is also important. Strong communication, empathy, and teamwork skills help you build rapport with patients and collaborate effectively with occupational therapists and healthcare teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for supporting patient recovery and delivering safe, effective therapy interventions.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level certified occupational therapy assistants when transitioning from school to a clinical setting?

As an entry level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA), one of the main challenges is adapting to the fast-paced environment and managing a larger caseload than what you may have experienced during your training. New COTAs often need to quickly learn documentation systems, become familiar with facility protocols, and collaborate effectively with occupational therapists and other healthcare team members. Building rapport with diverse patients and balancing hands-on care with administrative duties can also require strong time management and communication skills. Support and mentorship from experienced staff can help ease this transition and promote professional growth.

What is the difference between Entry Level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant vs Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant?

AspectEntry Level Certified Occupational Therapy AssistantCertified Occupational Therapy Assistant
CredentialsGraduated from an accredited OTA program, passed NBCOT examSame as entry level, typically requires certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, schools, skilled nursing facilitiesSame as entry level, varies by setting
ExperienceEntry level, minimal professional experienceUsually indicates some experience, but can be entry level

The main difference is that 'Entry Level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant' refers to a recent graduate who has just obtained certification, while 'Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant' can include both entry-level and more experienced professionals. Both roles work under supervision to assist patients with therapy plans in various healthcare settings.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in Springfield, IL?

For Entry Level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in Springfield, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in Springfield, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in Springfield, IL are:

What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Entry Level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs?

Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Entry Level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant job openings:

Entry Level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant job openings in Springfield, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,930 per year, or $32.2 per hour.

COTA (Occupational Therapy Assistant)

Continuum Therapy Partners

Taylorville, IL

$27.25 - $36.25/hr

Per diem

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

Continuum Therapy Partners brings a therapist-led approach to scale. Founded by industry veterans who spent twenty years striving for a more responsive therapy environment, we have successfully expanded from our initial 9 North Carolina facilities to a national footprint of 285 locations spanning 16 states.

Our growth is fueled by our commitment to those who provide the care: our Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants. We recognize that our patients and our company rely entirely on the expertise and dedication of our team members. We are currently looking for Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants who want to work with a leadership team that understands, prioritizes, and advocates for your professional perspective.

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant Requirements & Responsibilities:

  • Associate Degree in Occupational Therapy Assistant Program required
  • Current, unencumbered state COTA License; NBCOT Certification required
  • 1 year of previous experience as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant preferred
  • Implements individualized treatment plans under the supervision of an Occupational Therapist
  • Documents patient progress and reports changes in patient status to the supervising OT
  • Educates patients on adaptive equipment and home exercise programs

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant Benefits & Schedule:

  • Schedule: PRN-Daytime
  • Locations: Taylorville Care Center in Taylorville, IL

Please text or call Kelsey James at 812-781-2771 or email kjames@continuumtherapypartners.com