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Entry Level Cota Jobs in Highlands Ranch, CO (NOW HIRING)

OT

Denver, CO

$41.25 - $54.25/hr

... COTA, HHA) personnel per requirements and as assigned. 8. Completes initial history and evaluation ... entry-level certification examination for occupational therapy assistants developed and ...

OT

Denver, CO

$41.25 - $54.25/hr

... COTA, HHA) personnel per requirements and as assigned. 8. Completes initial history and evaluation ... entry-level certification examination for occupational therapy assistants developed and ...

Entry Level Cota information

See Highlands Ranch, CO salary details

$18

$34

$49

How much do entry level cota jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cota in Highlands Ranch, CO is $34.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.75 and $38.37 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 job categories do people searching Entry Level Cota jobs in Highlands Ranch, CO look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cota jobs in Highlands Ranch, CO are:

What cities near Highlands Ranch, CO are hiring for Entry Level Cota jobs?

Cities near Highlands Ranch, CO with the most Entry Level Cota job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Cota job openings in Highlands Ranch, CO 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 $70,881 per year, or $34.1 per hour.

$41.25 - $54.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

JOB SUMMARY
An Occupational Therapist (OT) administers occupational therapy to patients on an intermittent basis in their place of residence. This is performed in accordance with physician orders and plan of care under the direction and supervision of the Clinical Manager/Therapy Supervisor

RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Assists the physician or intermediate care provider in evaluating level of function, helps develop the plan of care and revise as necessary.
2. Prepares clinical and progress notes.
3. Advises and consults with the family and other agency personnel.
4. Participates in in-service programs and presents in-service programs as assigned.
5. Understands and adheres to established policies and procedures.
6. Participates with all other health care personnel in patient care planning.
7. Directs and supervises assistant (COTA, HHA) personnel per requirements and as assigned.
8. Completes initial history and evaluation visit, notifies physician of patient needs and submits plan of care and orders for physician approval.
9. Performs all skilled occupational therapy procedures as ordered by physician.
10. Consults with physicians regarding change in treatment.
11. Writes reports to physicians regarding patients progress.
12. Completes and submits OASIS assessments, reassessments, and transfers, resumptions of care, discharges and significant change in condition in accordance with Agency defined time frames if therapist has been trained and evaluated for competency on tasks.
13. Appropriately utilizes ICD-10 diagnoses and codes.
14. Completes a discharge summary upon completion of therapy services.
15. Completes a 60-day summary for physician every 60 days if further treatment is to be continued.
16. Instruction to patient/family in home program and activities of daily living with documentation in medical record notes.
17. Observes confidentiality and safeguards all patient related information.
18. Prepares and submits patient evaluations, clinical and progress notes in a timely manner as outlined in Agency policy.
19. Immediately reports to Clinical Manager/RN any patient incidents/variances or complaints.
20. Participants in peer review and QM activities as requested.
21. Adheres to Agency standards and consistently interprets and accurately performs all assigned responsibilities.
22. Maintains acceptable attendance status, per Agency policy.
23. Reports all incomplete work assignments to Clinical Manager / Therapy Supervisor.
24. Appearance is always within Agency standards; is clean and well-groomed.
25. Demonstrates effective time management skills through daily documentation and infrequent overtime for routine assignments.
26. Maintains clean and neat work environment.
27. Demonstrates sound judgment, critical thinking and decision making.
28. Maintains current CPR certifications.
29. Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS
1. A person who
a. Meets all of the following:
i. Is licensed or otherwise regulated, if applicable, as an occupational therapy assistant by the state in which practicing, unless licensure does apply.
ii. Graduated after successful completion of an occupational therapy assistant education program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education, (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc. (AOTA) or its successor organizations.
iii. Is eligible to take or successfully completed the entry-level certification examination for occupational therapy assistants developed and administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc. (NBCOT).
OR
b. On or before December 31, 2009
i. Is licensed or otherwise regulated, if applicable, as an occupational therapy assistant by the state in which practicing: OR
ii. When licensure or other regulation does not apply
(a) Graduated after successful completion of an occupational therapist education program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc. (AOTA) or successor organizations of ACOTE; and
(b) Is eligible to take, or has successfully completed the entry-level certification examination for occupational therapists developed and administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc. (NBCOT).
OR
c. On or before January 1, 2008
i. Graduated after successful completion of an occupational therapy program accredited jointly by the Committee on Allied Health Education and Accreditation of the American Medical Association and the American Occupational Therapy Association;
or
ii. Is eligible for the National Registration Examination of the American Occupational Therapy Association or the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy.
OR
d. On or before December 31, 1977
i. Had 2 years of appropriate experience as an occupational therapist; and
ii. Had achieved a satisfactory grade on an occupational therapist proficiency examination conducted, approved, or sponsored by the U.S. Public Health Service.
OR
e. If educated outside the United States, must meet both of the following
i. Graduated after successful completion of an occupational therapist education program accredited as substantially equivalent to occupational therapist entry level education in the United States by one of the following:
(a) The Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE).
(b) Successor organizations of ACOTE.
(c) The World Federation of Occupational Therapists.
(d) A credentialing body approved by the American Occupational Therapy Association.
(e) Successfully completed the entry level certification examination for occupational therapists developed and administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc. (NBCOT).
2. Two (2) years experience, preferred.
3. Acceptance of philosophy and goals of Agency.
4. Ability to exercise initiative and independent judgment.