2

Entry Level Cota Jobs (NOW HIRING)

*Occupational Therapist Assistant

Hayward, CA

$32.75 - $43.50/hr

Under the supervision of an OTR/L, the COTA provides patient services recommended by the OTR/L ... May perform other duties as assigned Entry-level to Experienced. Physical Requirements: A. Ability ...

Showing results 41-60

Entry Level Cota information

See salary details

$17

$32

$46

How much do entry level cota jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 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 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.

What jobs can an entry level Cota get?

An entry-level Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) can typically find jobs in hospitals, nursing homes, outpatient clinics, and home health agencies. These roles involve assisting occupational therapists with patient care, implementing treatment plans, and documenting progress, often requiring knowledge of therapy tools and patient safety protocols.

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.

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.
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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% As Needed, 54% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $67,531 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Occupational Therapy Assistant COTA Home Health

PruittHealth

Columbia, SC • On-site

$26.25 - $35.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


PruittHealth rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 132 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

118th of 242 rated social care providers


Job description

Certified Occupational Therapist COTA - Home Health Services

Full Time

Locations: Lexington/Richland Counties

Home is where the heart is!  That's why PruittHealth @ Home is committed to caring for our patients and residents, as well as providing our employees with a rewarding career as a member of our PruittHealth family. 

New Pay Per Point Model – Top pay in the industry

Our Compensation Plan for our clinicians is top of market and pays higher for visits that require greater effort. By assigning higher point values, we can directly tie your compensation to the work you perform, and time spent outside of a visit.

JOB PURPOSE: 

To assist in the execution of the occupational therapy care plan/ treatment to patients as prescribed by the evaluating therapist and physician according to the State Practice Acts.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

•    Demonstrates knowledge of home care and competency in discipline for specific patient care skills

•    Communicate and document tasks in a timely and accurate manner.

•    Helps maintain continuity of care by collaborating with the interdisciplinary team

•    Follow procedures for handling medical emergencies or other incidents that affect the delivery of service.

•    Report patient progress and problems to supervisory personnel.

•    Provide a clean, safe environment with well-stocked supplies and functioning equipment. Has current knowledge of proper equipment usage.

•    Foster teamwork by contributing ideas, listening to others, and supporting cultural diversity.

•    Report any alleged or suspected violations to supervisor and/or others until the issue is resolved.

•    Ability to be self-directed, prioritize, manage time appropriately, and meet outcomes and strategic goals by targeted deadlines.

As a member of our team, clinicians will have access to top-of-the-market pay structures with unlimited income potential, progressive benefit plan, mileage reimbursement, opportunity for career growth, additional pay incentives, and flexible schedules – plus a great team environment that reflects our commitment to caring for our 16,000 partners.


MINIMUM EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

•    One (1) years of experience working with adults in a healthcare setting.

LICENSURE, CERTIFICATION AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:

•    Must have a valid and unrestricted professional license in state of practice.

•    Graduate of ACOTE accredited school

•    If foreign-trained, the program must be deemed substantially equivalent to an Occupational Therapy Assistant entry level education in the U.S. by a credentials evaluation organization approved by the AOTA.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

•    Home Health experience is desirable.

Family Makes Us Stronger. Our family, your family, one family. Committed to loving, giving, and caring. United in making a difference.

We are eager to connect with you! Apply Now to get started at PruittHealth!

As an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, all qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

For Florida Job Postings Only:

For more information regarding Florida’s Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse Education and Awareness, please visit https://info.flclearinghouse.com


What PruittHealth employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


PruittHealth logo

About PruittHealth

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

PruittHealth will help you conquer your career goals. At PruittHealth, we are searching for nurses who are committed to serving our residents with care and compassion, and in return, we are committed to supporting your nursing career through annual merit increases, career growth programs, preceptorship, and more.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Norcross, GA, US

Year founded

1969

Social media