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Entry Level Cota Jobs (NOW HIRING)

COTA

Concord, CA

$31.25 - $41.75/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

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, ...

COTA

Concord, CA · On-site

$31.25 - $41.75/hr

... Entry-level to Experienced. Physical Requirements: A. Ability to bend, reach, or assist to transfer ... COTA, certified Occupational Therapist Assistant, PTA, Physical Therapist Assistant, HH, Ortho, ...

COTA

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$32.50 - $43.25/hr

... Entry-level to Experienced. Physical Requirements: A. Ability to bend, reach, or assist to transfer ... COTA, certified Occupational Therapist Assistant, PTA, Physical Therapist Assistant, HH, Ortho, ...

COTA

Walnut Creek, CA

$32.50 - $43.25/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, ...

PRN COTA

Evansville, IN

$27.25 - $36.25/hr

In this role, the COTA will work with Med A rehab residents as well as long-term care residents ... Graduate of accredited entry level Occupational Therapy Assistant Program * Certified by the ...

EXPERIENCE Required - no experience required for entry level position Preferred - at least 1 year ... COTA opening. We promptly review all applications. Highly qualified candidates will be directly ...

EXPERIENCE Required - no experience required for entry level position Preferred - at least 1 year ... COTA opening. We promptly review all applications. Highly qualified candidates will be directly ...

EXPERIENCE Required - no experience required for entry level position Preferred - at least 1 year ... COTA opening. We promptly review all applications. Highly qualified candidates will be directly ...

COTA Per Diem

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$47.37/hr

Certified Occupational Therapist Asst (COTA) * Must possess current National Certification as an ... This entry-level staff therapist will be able to carry a patient's case * 5% - Educational ...

COTA PRN

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$33 - $40.50/hr

Overview COTA PRN Days Make a difference every day as an Amedisys occupational therapist assistant ... Eligible to take, or has successfully completed, the entry-level certification examination for ...

COTA PRN

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$33 - $40.50/hr

Overview COTA PRN Days Make a difference every day as an Amedisys occupational therapist assistant ... Eligible to take, or has successfully completed, the entry-level certification examination for ...

Home Health COTA

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$36 - $45/hr

Overview Home Health COTA Full Time, Weekdays Pay Range: $36.00/hr to $45.00/hr Territory: Virginia ... Eligible to take, or has successfully completed, the entry-level certification examination for ...

Home Health COTA

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$36 - $45/hr

Overview Home Health COTA Full Time, Weekdays Pay Range: $36.00/hr to $45.00/hr Territory: Virginia ... Eligible to take, or has successfully completed, the entry-level certification examination for ...

COTA, Home Health

Bangor, ME · On-site

$33.75 - $47.25/hr

Overview Home Health OT Assistant (COTA) Full Time, Weekdays Pay Range: $33.75/hr to $47.25/hr Are ... Eligible to take, or has successfully completed, the entry-level certification examination for ...

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Entry Level Cota information

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$17

$32

$46

How much do entry level cota jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 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.

Where do OTAs get paid the most?

Entry-level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs) typically earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare services. States or areas with a strong healthcare infrastructure and higher Medicaid or Medicare reimbursement rates often offer better pay for COTAs, especially in urban or metropolitan settings. Salary can also vary based on experience, certifications, and the work environment, such as hospitals or outpatient clinics.

Are cota jobs in demand?

Entry-level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs) are in steady demand due to ongoing healthcare needs and an aging population. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as more facilities seek qualified assistants to support occupational therapists, often requiring certification and strong interpersonal skills.

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 National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam. A degree from an accredited program is essential for certification and employment as a COTA.

Is OTA better than OT?

An Entry Level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) works under the supervision of an Occupational Therapist (OT) to implement treatment plans and assist patients with daily activities. While OTs develop plans and evaluate progress, COTAs focus on carrying out interventions, often requiring specific certifications and training. Both roles are essential in healthcare settings, but they have different responsibilities and levels of education.

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:
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Infographic showing various Entry Level Cota job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 22% As Needed, 50% Full Time, and 28% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $67,531 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

$31.25 - $41.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Company Description

Skilled Nursing Facility

Job Description

Job Summary:

Tues - Sat or Sun -  Thursday

The Staff Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant administers occupational therapy services as directed by a registered Occupational Therapist; does not perform evaluations. Performs duties assigned by the Director of Rehab or staff therapist(s).

Essential Job Responsibilities:

Determine patients need for service in collaboration with an OTR/L.

Contributes to the assessment process under the direction of an OTR/L. Provides information to the    OTR/L for analysis.

Assist the OTR/L in developing a treatment plan.

Under the supervision of an OTR/L, the COTA provides patient services recommended by the OTR/L.

Reports observations of patient's performance and responses to services to the OTR/L.

Maintains appropriate and accurate records on all patients/residents as directed by the OTR/L.

Recommends termination of patient services to the supervisor.

Carries out assignments given by the Director of Physical Therapy.

Reports any problem areas/equipment within each facility to the appropriate supervisor immediately.

Comply with the State Licensing Board of California, Title 22, CMS, and California Labor Board Guidelines.

May perform other duties as assigned

Entry-level to Experienced. Physical Requirements:

A. Ability to bend, reach, or assist to transfer up to 50-100 lbs.

B. Ability to stand and/or walk 80% of an 8 hr. shift.

C. Visual and hearing acuity to perform job-related functions

Licensure/Certification:

Licensed as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant for the State of California, or eligible.

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