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Entry Level Cota Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Amedisys, Inc.

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 ...

Amedisys, Inc.

COTA PRN

Oklahoma City, OK

$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 ...

Amedisys, Inc.

Home Health COTA, Norfolk

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$36 - $45/hr

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

Amedisys, Inc.

Home Health COTA, Norfolk

Norfolk, VA

$36 - $45/hr

Overview Home Health COTA Full Time, Weekdays Pay Range: $36.00/hr to $45.00/hr Territory: Norfolk ... 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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How much do entry level cota jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 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.

Is it hard to find a job as a cota?

Finding a job as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) can vary depending on location and demand, but generally, there is steady employment in healthcare settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, and outpatient clinics. Having relevant certifications, clinical experience, and strong interpersonal skills can improve job prospects, though competition may exist in some regions.

Who gets paid more, OTA or PTA?

In the healthcare field, Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs) generally earn higher salaries than Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs), reflecting differences in demand and scope of practice. Both roles typically require an associate degree and certification, but OTAs often have slightly higher earning potential due to the complexity of their responsibilities. Salary can vary based on location, experience, and work setting.

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 NBCOT certification exam. A degree from an approved program is essential for licensure and employment as a COTA.

What entry-level positions are at COTA?

Entry-level positions at COTA typically include Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) roles, which support licensed occupational therapists in patient care. These positions often require a COTA certification, an associate degree, and may involve working in healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes, with schedules that can include day, evening, or weekend shifts.

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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 22% Locum Tenens, 8% As Needed, 47% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,531 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)

Educational Service District 112 - WA

Vancouver, WA • On-site

$30.18 - $36.72/hr

Part-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) at Educational Service District 112 - WA Share on X Print Application Deadline 6/30/2026 3:10 PM Pacific Date Posted 5/29/2026 Contact Chelsea Jacobson 360-952-3322 Number of Openings 1 Salary Pay Range 30.18 - 36.72 Per Hour Add'l Salary Info Offers are made at the entry level of the range. Length of Work Year 180 days (school year) Employment Type Part Time Job Description / Essential Elements: Print General Responsibilities Reporting directly to the Occupational Therapist, the Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant is responsible for supporting and assisting students with disabilities in various settings. The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant, consistent with the individual education plan (IEP) or the Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP), assists the Physical and/or Occupational Therapist with implementing and documenting treatment programs for students and children

Assignment/Location: We are recruiting for a COTA to serve the Goldendale, Mabton and Bickleton school districts. This position is 37.5 hrs/wk, school year schedule. Regular attendance required: This role relies on regular and reliable attendance to ensure consistency for our students and help support a positive, productive learning environment

Essential Functions/Other Functions Essential Functions: Assist the Physical and/or Occupational Therapist, consistent with the IEP and/or IFSP goals, to implement the therapy program including exercises, activities of daily living skills, and ambulatory techniques. Construct, adapt, and monitor adaptive equipment. Consult with teachers and parents on use.

Maintain records of student progress, attendance, and other required activities. Prepare projects and materials for conducting individual and group motor skills programs. Follow established procedures from referral to discharge with appropriate communication to supervisors.

Monitor instructional assistants in daily motor skills program. Consult with classroom staff/education team members and parents regarding implementing motor skills program. Assist the Physical and/or Occupational Therapist in the assessment of students and the development of IFSP/IEP goals.

Participate as a member of the education team. May attend parent conferences. Maintain regular attendance to carry out the duties and responsibilities of the position.

Other Functions: Other duties as assigned. Minimum/Preferred Qualifications & Skills Minimum Qualifications: Associate's degree in occupational therapy assistant. Have or are eligible to hold a certified occupational therapy assistant license in the state of Washington.

Preferred Qualifications and Skills: Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant experience in an educational setting. Early childhood and/or school age experience. Working Conditions/Employment Requirements Working Conditions/Physical Requirements: Family home environment, preschool or K-12 classroom settings, may move from classroom to classroom to provide services.

Ability to move and position children and/or students according to established procedures to provide therapy. Sit, stand, stoop to attend to children and/or student's needs and to provide therapy. Regular attendance during assigned work schedule.

Daily travel required to provide services. Employment Requirements: Successful completion of a criminal history and fingerprint check through the Washington State Patrol and FBI. Travel within ESD 112 region for meetings and trainings.

Requirements / Qualifications For more information on Requirements/Qualifications, please contact the employer. Comments and Other Information For more information on Comments and Other Information, please contact the employer. CalPERS Links Not all postings qualify for CalPERS.

Informational Only. CalPERS Retirement Benefits ADD TO WISHLIST VIEW JOB WISHLIST APPLY (Current Employees ONLY) APPLY QUICK APPLY

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