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Entry Level Cota Jobs (NOW HIRING)

COTA

Clinton, MD

$28.25 - $37.75/hr

May perform other duties as assigned Entry-level to Experienced. Physical Requirements: A. Ability ... COTA, certified Occupational Therapist Assistant, PTA, Physical Therapist Assistant, HH, Ortho, ...

COTA

Oakland, CA

$32.75 - $43.75/hr

May perform other duties as assigned Entry-level to Experienced. Physical Requirements: A. Ability ... COTA, certified Occupational Therapist Assistant, PTA, Physical Therapist Assistant, HH, Ortho, ...

COTA

Bedford, NH · On-site

$28 - $37.50/hr

May perform other duties as assigned Entry-level to Experienced. Physical Requirements: A. Ability ... COTA, certified Occupational Therapist Assistant, PTA, Physical Therapist Assistant, HH, Ortho, ...

COTA

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$32 - $42.75/hr

May perform other duties as assigned Entry-level to Experienced. Physical Requirements: A. Ability ... COTA, certified Occupational Therapist Assistant, PTA, Physical Therapist Assistant, HH, Ortho, ...

COTA

Palm Desert, CA

$29.25 - $39/hr

May perform other duties as assigned Entry-level to Experienced. Physical Requirements: A. Ability ... COTA, certified Occupational Therapist Assistant, PTA, Physical Therapist Assistant, HH, Ortho, ...

COTA

Red Bluff, CA

$29 - $38.50/hr

May perform other duties as assigned Entry-level to Experienced. Physical Requirements: A. Ability ... COTA, certified Occupational Therapist Assistant, PTA, Physical Therapist Assistant, HH, Ortho, ...

COTA

Lawrenceville, VA

$28.25 - $37.75/hr

May perform other duties as assigned Entry-level to Experienced. Physical Requirements: A. Ability ... COTA, certified Occupational Therapist Assistant, PTA, Physical Therapist Assistant, HH, Ortho, ...

COTA

San Rafael, CA

$31.75 - $42.25/hr

May perform other duties as assigned Entry-level to Experienced. Physical Requirements: A. Ability ... COTA, certified Occupational Therapist Assistant, PTA, Physical Therapist Assistant, HH, Ortho, ...

COTA

Riverside, CA

$29.75 - $39.75/hr

May perform other duties as assigned Entry-level to Experienced. Physical Requirements: A. Ability ... COTA, certified Occupational Therapist Assistant, PTA, Physical Therapist Assistant, HH, Ortho, ...

COTA

Brawley, CA

$30.50 - $40.50/hr

May perform other duties as assigned Entry-level to Experienced. Physical Requirements: A. Ability ... COTA, certified Occupational Therapist Assistant, PTA, Physical Therapist Assistant, HH, Ortho, ...

COTA

Oakhurst, CA · On-site

$29 - $38.50/hr

May perform other duties as assigned Entry-level to Experienced. Physical Requirements: A. Ability ... COTA, certified Occupational Therapist Assistant, PTA, Physical Therapist Assistant, HH, Ortho, ...

COTA

Glendale, CA

$30.25 - $40.25/hr

May perform other duties as assigned Entry-level to Experienced. Physical Requirements: A. Ability ... COTA, certified Occupational Therapist Assistant, PTA, Physical Therapist Assistant, HH, Ortho, ...

COTA

Lanham, MD

$28.50 - $38/hr

May perform other duties as assigned Entry-level to Experienced. Physical Requirements: A. Ability ... COTA, certified Occupational Therapist Assistant, PTA, Physical Therapist Assistant, HH, Ortho, ...

COTA

Burlingame, CA

$32.25 - $43/hr

May perform other duties as assigned Entry-level to Experienced. Physical Requirements: A. Ability ... COTA, certified Occupational Therapist Assistant, PTA, Physical Therapist Assistant, HH, Ortho, ...

COTA

Porterville, CA

$28.25 - $37.50/hr

May perform other duties as assigned Entry-level to Experienced. Physical Requirements: A. Ability ... COTA, certified Occupational Therapist Assistant, PTA, Physical Therapist Assistant, HH, Ortho, ...

COTA

San Marcos, CA · On-site

$29 - $38.75/hr

May perform other duties as assigned Entry-level to Experienced. Physical Requirements: A. Ability ... COTA, certified Occupational Therapist Assistant, PTA, Physical Therapist Assistant, HH, Ortho, ...

COTA

Hayward, CA

$32.75 - $43.50/hr

May perform other duties as assigned Entry-level to Experienced. Physical Requirements: A. Ability ... COTA, certified Occupational Therapist Assistant, PTA, Physical Therapist Assistant, HH, Ortho, ...

COTA

Bakersfield, CA

$27.25 - $36.50/hr

May perform other duties as assigned Entry-level to Experienced. Physical Requirements: A. Ability ... COTA, certified Occupational Therapist Assistant, PTA, Physical Therapist Assistant, HH, Ortho, ...

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Entry Level Cota information

See salary details

$17

$32

$46

How much do entry level cota jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cota 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 Entry Level Cota vs Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)?

AspectEntry Level CotaCertified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
CertificationsRequires COTA certification, often after completing an accredited occupational therapy assistant programRequires CNA certification, typically after completing a state-approved training program
Work EnvironmentWorks under occupational therapists in clinics, hospitals, rehab centersWorks directly with patients in hospitals, nursing homes, long-term care facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesAssists with occupational therapy treatments, helps patients improve daily living skillsProvides basic patient care, assists with activities of daily living, takes vital signs

While both roles involve patient care, Entry Level Cotas focus on occupational therapy support and require specific occupational therapy assistant certification, working mainly in rehab settings. CNAs provide basic care and work directly with patients in various healthcare environments. The roles differ in scope, certification, and daily responsibilities, but both are essential in healthcare teams.

How does an entry-level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) typically interact with occupational therapists and other healthcare team members?

As an entry-level COTA, you’ll work closely under the supervision of licensed occupational therapists, assisting with implementing treatment plans and documenting patient progress. Collaboration is key—you’ll communicate regularly with occupational therapists to update them on patient responses and suggest possible adjustments. Additionally, you may interact with physical therapists, nurses, and family members to ensure cohesive care and support for each patient. This teamwork helps you learn quickly, build professional relationships, and ensures clients receive comprehensive, coordinated services.

What are entry level COTAs?

Entry level COTAs, or Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants, are professionals who have recently completed their education and certification, and are beginning their careers in occupational therapy. They work under the supervision of licensed occupational therapists to help patients develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working. Their responsibilities often include assisting with therapy exercises, documenting patient progress, and supporting the implementation of treatment plans. Entry level COTAs typically work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, schools, and nursing facilities.

Is it hard to find a job as a cota?

Finding a job as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) can vary depending on location and demand, but generally, there is steady employment in healthcare settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, and outpatient clinics. Having relevant certifications, clinical experience, and strong interpersonal skills can improve job prospects, though competition may exist in some regions.

Who gets paid more, OTA or PTA?

In the healthcare field, Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs) generally earn higher salaries than Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs), reflecting differences in demand and scope of practice. Both roles typically require an associate degree and certification, but OTAs often have slightly higher earning potential due to the complexity of their responsibilities. Salary can vary based on location, experience, and work setting.

Can I become a cota without a degree?

To become a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA), a high school diploma or equivalent is required, but you must also complete an accredited occupational therapy assistant program and pass the NBCOT certification exam. A degree from an approved program is essential for licensure and employment as a COTA.

What entry-level positions are at COTA?

Entry-level positions at COTA typically include Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) roles, which support licensed occupational therapists in patient care. These positions often require a COTA certification, an associate degree, and may involve working in healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes, with schedules that can include day, evening, or weekend shifts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA), and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level COTA, you need an associate degree from an accredited occupational therapy assistant program and a current state license or NBCOT certification. Familiarity with electronic health records, therapy documentation software, and basic therapy equipment is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to follow detailed instructions help COTAs work effectively with patients and supervising occupational therapists. These skills ensure safe, effective care and support patients in achieving their therapy goals.
More about Entry Level Cota jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Cota jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Cota job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cota jobs? The most popular types of Cota jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Cota jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Cota jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cota jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cota jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cota job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 22% Locum Tenens, 8% As Needed, 47% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,531 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

LINEAGE CARE GROUP

Kenmore, NY • On-site

$24 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Shift: Fulltime Days (8am-4pm or 9am-5pm)

Employees are an important part of life at Schofield Care! Not only do they help our residents to achieve their goals, but they also help them to maintain an optimal quality of life. We're looking for caring, compassionate employees to join our team and to help us fulfill our mission to deliver the area's BEST senior care! 

Position Summary:

The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) provides occupational therapy services to patients in their homes under the supervision of a Registered Occupational Therapist (OTR). The COTA implements treatment plans established by the Occupational Therapist to support patients in achieving improved independence, safety, and functional ability in activities of daily living within the home environment.

We strive to be an employer of choice:

  • Competitive Wages
  • Paid Time Off
  • Sick Days
  • Medical, Dental, Life Insurance
  • 401(k) (eligibility based on full-time/part-time status)
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Uniform Allowance
  • Other Perks

Key Responsibilities:

The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant works under the supervision of a Registered Occupational Therapist. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Provide occupational therapy treatment as directed by the supervising Occupational Therapist and according to the established plan of care.
  • Assist patients in improving their ability to perform activities of daily living, including dressing, bathing, grooming, meal preparation, and home management tasks.
  • Provide instruction and training to patients and caregivers on adaptive techniques, energy conservation strategies, and safe functional mobility within the home.
  • Assist in fitting and training patients in the use of adaptive equipment, orthotics, and assistive devices as directed by the Occupational Therapist.
  • Observe and report patient responses to treatment and any changes in functional status to the supervising Occupational Therapist.
  • Participate in ongoing assessment of patient progress and communicate relevant findings to the Occupational Therapist.
  • Implement therapeutic exercise programs, neuromuscular reeducation, and functional training activities as directed by the Occupational Therapist.
  • Prepare patients and caregivers for discharge by reinforcing education and implementing discharge plans developed by the Occupational Therapist.
  • Complete timely and accurate documentation in the patient’s medical record in accordance with agency policies, Medicare guidelines, and New York State regulations.
  • Communicate with members of the interdisciplinary home care team including nursing, physical therapy, speech therapy, social work, and home health aides as appropriate.
  • Participate in case conferences, care planning meetings, and interdisciplinary discussions as required.
  • Provide recommendations regarding patient needs, equipment, home modifications, or additional services to the supervising Occupational Therapist.
  • Maintain patient confidentiality and comply with HIPAA and agency policies.
  • Participate in required in-service training, continuing education, and professional development activities.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned by the supervising Occupational Therapist or department manager.

Working Environment:

Work is performed primarily in patient homes and community settings. Travel between patient locations is required. Work schedules are typically Monday through Friday but may vary based on patient needs and agency requirements.

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  Qualifications:

  • Education and Training: Graduate of an Occupational Therapy Assistant program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) and approved by the American Occupational Therapy Association. Must hold current certification as an Occupational Therapy Assistant and be licensed and registered with the New York State Education Department.
  • Experience: Experience in home care, community health, or geriatric rehabilitation is preferred but not required. The entry-level COTA should demonstrate an understanding of the aging process, chronic conditions, and functional rehabilitation in the home setting.
  • Character: Must possess good moral character, patience, compassion, and the ability to work independently while providing care in patients’ homes.

EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer.  Applicants and employees are considered for positions and are evaluated without regard to mental or physical disability, race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, genetic information, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, marital status or any other protected Federal, State/Province or Local status unrelated to the performance of the work involved.