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Entry Level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant Jobs

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Entry Level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant information

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

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level 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 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 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 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.
More about Entry Level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant job openings:
What states have the most Entry Level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 16% 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.

Travel Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

National Staffing Solutions-Therapy

Yuba City, CA โ€ข On-site

$30 - $40.25/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

National Staffing Solutions-Therapy is seeking a travel Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant for a travel job in Yuba City, California.

Job Description & Requirements
  • Specialty: Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
  • Discipline: Therapy
  • Start Date: ASAP
  • Duration: 13 weeks
  • 40 hours per week
  • Shift: 8 hours
  • Employment Type: Travel

SNF Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant - COTA / OTA

Weโ€™re currently seeking a Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant to join our amazing team.

Details of the Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant opening:

  • Anticipated start date: ASAP
  • Anticipated duration of contract: 13 weeks
  • Anticipated schedule: Monday - Friday
  • Enjoy peace of mind knowing you can elect Day One Medical Benefits

Daily Range of Responsibilities of the Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant: 

  • Assist the Occupational Therapist in evaluating the patient's functional status and occupational therapy needs, to enhance the health, well-being and quality of life for your patients

Job Qualifications for the Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant:

  • Associateโ€™s degree from an accredited Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant Program.
  • Occupational Therapy Assistant Certification / Licensure in the state of practice.
  • Current BLS certification.

Submit your resume to us today for consideration of the Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant opening and one of our dedicated recruiters will be in touch within 24 business hours.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

National Staffing Solutions-Therapy Job ID #073126DV349. Pay package is based on 8 hour shifts and 40 hours per week (subject to confirmation) with tax-free stipend amount to be determined.

About National Staffing Solutions-Therapy

National Staffing Solutions is a leader in the travel healthcare industry for over a decade. National Staffing Solutions places healthcare professionals in positions that allow them to gain valuable experiences, fill the skyrocketing demand in their field, and travel nationwide at premium pay.

We use our insight, experience and nationwide resources to make exceptional connections every day! Through our many years of service, we are now positioned perfectly to pass your name and resume to our healthcare partners that are looking for YOUR help.

Facilities across the nation choose National Staffing Solutions as their workforce partner to solve nursing shortages that range from quick-fill demands to areas in urgent need of medical attention. Hundreds of healthcare organizations throughout North America rely on us each year to connect them with quality professionals, like yourself, who are ready to work.