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Entry Level Cota Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Cota information

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$16

$31

$45

How much do entry level cota jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cota in Minnesota is $31.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.83 and $35.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)?

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.

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 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.

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.

Is it hard to get an entry level Cota job?

Securing an entry-level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) position can be competitive, but having an accredited degree, passing the NBCOT exam, and relevant clinical experience can improve chances. Employers often look for strong communication skills and the ability to work in healthcare settings. The job market varies by location and demand for healthcare professionals.

What jobs can an entry level Cota get?

An entry-level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) can work in settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, outpatient clinics, and schools. They typically assist occupational therapists with patient care, therapy sessions, and documenting progress, often requiring knowledge of therapy tools and patient safety protocols.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cota jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Cota jobs in Minnesota are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Cota jobs in Minnesota?

For Entry Level Cota jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cota jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cota jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Entry Level Cota jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Entry Level Cota job openings:

Entry Level Cota jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cota job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,140 per year, or $31.8 per hour.

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant | Inpatient Therapies

St. Cloud Hospital

Saint Cloud, MN

$24.21 - $36.35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

New graduates and experienced candidates are welcome to apply! Nestled on the banks of the Mississippi River, St. Cloud Hospital is ranked as the third best hospital in Minnesota and among the top 50 in the nation. Join us in providing compassionate occupational therapy to patients of all ages, using the latest technology and techniques. You'll work closely with a dedicated team to help develop and deliver personalized treatment plans that make a real difference in our patients' lives.

Schedule:

  • Full-time | 64-80 hours every two weeks
  • Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Every 4th weekend, rotating holidays

Pay & Benefits:

  • Starting pay begins at $24.21per hour and increases with experience
    • Pay range: $24.21-$36.35 per hour
  • Full time benefits: medical, dental, PTO, retirement, employee discounts and more!
  • As a nonprofit organization, CentraCare is a qualifying employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.

Qualifications:

  • Associate degree from an accredited occupational therapy assistant curriculum and successful completion of clinical field work.  New or upcoming graduates welcome to apply!  
  • Must have entry level skills and knowledge in the provision of occupation therapy services with clinical field work completed in an acute care or sub-acute care setting.
  • Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) Certification as a Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant by the NBCOT required or obtained within 6 months. 
  • Occupational Therapy Assistant Licensed Occupational Therapy Assistant through the State of Minnesota required, or Temporary OTA permit required with Occupational Therapy Assistant license obtained within 90 days. 
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) Current American Heart Association (AHA) BLS Healthcare Provider card. 

“I love working at St. Cloud Hospital because of the people I work with and I love helping people. It is very rewarding to see patients when I can make a difference in their hospital stay. To see a patient feel valued and given the best of care, just as I would like to see my own family taken care of. I take pride in providing Occupational Therapy to patients.” - Tricia

CentraCare has made a commitment to diversity in its workforce. All individuals including, but not limited to, individuals with disabilities, are encouraged to apply. CentraCare is an EEO/AA employer.

COTA, OTA 

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