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Entry Level Cota Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Amedisys, Inc.

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 ...

Harvard CUSD50

Occupational Therapist

Harvard, IL

$38.25 - $50.50/hr

Currently, entry-level occupational therapy programs require a minimum of a master's degree. This ... Collaborating with the COTA to develop student goals and objectives. * Monitoring the COTA ...

1 Legacy, Inc

*Occupational Therapist Assistant

Hayward, CA · On-site

$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 ...

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Entry Level Cota information

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$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.
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Entry Level Cota jobs near you
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.
COTA Occupational Therapy Assistant Home Health $5k Sign on Bonus

COTA Occupational Therapy Assistant Home Health $5k Sign on Bonus

Amedisys, Inc.

Burlington, NC

$28 - $43/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Amedisys rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 107 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

160th of 872 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Overview
FULLTIME COTA (DAY SHIFT)
$5,000 SIGNON BONUS!
 COTA License Required
 Join a team that values your skills, your passion, and your growth!
 
 
Are you looking for a rewarding career in homecare? If so, we invite you to join our team at Amedisys, one of the largest and most trusted home health and hospice companies in the U.S.
 
Attractive pay
  • $28.00- $43.00
 
What's in it for you
  • A full benefits package with choice of affordable PPO or HSA medical plans.
  • Paid time off.
  • Up to $1,000 in free healthcare services paid by Amedisys yearly, when enrolled in an Amedisys HSA medical plan.
  • Up to $500 in wellness rewards for completing activities during the year. Use these rewards to support your wellbeing with spa services, gym memberships, sports, hobbies, pets and more.*
  • Mental health support, including up to five free counseling sessions per year through the Amedisys Employee Assistance program.
  • 401(k) with a company match.
  • Family support with infertility treatment coverage*, adoption reimbursement, paid parental and family caregiver leave.
  • Fleet vehicle program (restrictions apply) and mileage reimbursement.
  • And more.
Please note: Benefit eligibility can vary by position depending on shift status.
*To participate, you must be enrolled in an Amedisys medical plan.
 
 
Why Amedisys?
  • Community-based care centers with a supportive and inclusive work environment.
  • Better work/life balance and increased flexibility compared to other settings.
  • Job stability and the opportunity to advance with a growing company.
  • The opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of patients and their families providing much needed care where they want to be - in their homes.

Responsibilities
  • Provides skilled interventions in accordance with the physician approved plan of care and under the direction and supervision of an occupational therapist.
  • Provides documentation of each visit according to AOTA documentation guidelines and accepted regulatory standards for inclusion in the patient's clinical record.
  • Observes, records and reports the patient's response to treatment and any change in the patient's condition to the supervising OT, physician and other appropriate clinical staff.
  • Provides patient/caregiver resources for future ADL/IADL needs.
  • Promotes wellness and prevention by promotion of occupational engagement.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of available community resources/services.
  • Makes recommendations for follow-up care in coordination with the care center that admitted the patient/client.
  • Keeps abreast of occupational therapy trends and knowledge for the service provision, documentation skills and care coordination.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
  • Current license to practice as an occupational therapy assistant, specific to the state you are assigned to work.
  • Graduate of an occupational therapy assistant program, accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc. (AOTA), or successor organizations of ACOTE.
  • Eligible to take, or has 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).
  • One year related occupational therapy assistant experience to ensure knowledge and skills are sufficient to safely provide occupational therapy services to patients.
    • If less than one year of experience, then approval from regional clinical leaders required as well as appropriate mentoring and/or residency program established.
  • Current CPR certification.
 
Our compensation reflects the cost of labor across several U.S. geographic markets and may vary depending on location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.
 

Amedisys is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified employees and applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, pregnancy, marital status, national origin, citizenship status, disability, military status, sexual orientation, genetic predisposition or carrier status or any other legally protected characteristic.

Qualifications:
  • Current license to practice as an occupational therapy assistant, specific to the state you are assigned to work.
  • Graduate of an occupational therapy assistant program, accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc. (AOTA), or successor organizations of ACOTE.
  • Eligible to take, or has 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).
  • One year related occupational therapy assistant experience to ensure knowledge and skills are sufficient to safely provide occupational therapy services to patients.
    • If less than one year of experience, then approval from regional clinical leaders required as well as appropriate mentoring and/or residency program established.
  • Current CPR certification.
 
Our compensation reflects the cost of labor across several U.S. geographic markets and may vary depending on location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.
 

Amedisys is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified employees and applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, pregnancy, marital status, national origin, citizenship status, disability, military status, sexual orientation, genetic predisposition or carrier status or any other legally protected characteristic.

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Amedisys

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

*Caregiving is our Calling* At Amedisys whether we're caring for patients directly or supporting those who do, each of us is a caregiver at heart. Every team member contributes to our mission of providing exceptional, clinically distinct care in the home to thousands of patients and families every day.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Baton Rouge, LA, US

Year founded

1982

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