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Entry Level Cota Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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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$17

$32

$46

How much do entry level cota jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 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 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.
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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:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Cota job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $67,531 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA)

Helena Public Schools

Helena, MT • On-site

$20.03 - $22.66/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description


Helena School District has an immediate opening for a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA). At Helena Public Schools, our vision is to foster dynamic educational experiences that prepare all students for life. You will work as part of a team of serving 8,000 students at 18 campuses across Helena.
Some of what you will do:


  • Provide therapeutic activities under supervision of a Registered Occupational Therapist (OT).
  • Assist registered OT with treatment planning to support Individual Education Plan (IEP) goals.
  • Record attendance and document individual therapy activities. 


Essential functions of the position include the ability to occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds to relocate students that are wheelchair or non-wheelchair bound with or without a reasonable accommodation. This position also requires reliable transportation to serve students across our 18 campuses.
To become part of this dedicated team, you:


  • Completed the academic requirements of an educational program for Occupational Therapy Assistant that is accredited by the American Occupational Therapy Association's Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education or predecessor organization: www.aota.org   
  • Possess a current State of Montana Occupational Therapy Assistant license.
  • Able to establish effective working relationships with students, staff and the school community.
  • Able to speak clearly and concisely in both oral and written communication mediums.


Entry level salary range is $20.03- $22.66 per hour depending on applicable relevant work experience as determined by the District and includes a comprehensive benefit package including coverage during the summer break. Learn more at: https://helenaschools.org/departments/human-resources/health-care-and-cafeteria-benefits/
How to Apply:
Complete the online application to include three professional references.  Applications accepted immediately
This position is for the 26-27 school year and will remain open until filled. 
Question? Email recruit@helenaschools.org.
Important Note









  • Prior to employment, you must successfully complete the appropriate background check required for employment.
  • This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs. 

The Helena School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, marital status, military status, citizenship status, culture, social origin or condition, use of lawful products while not at work, political affiliation, a mental, physical or sensory disability, or by any other distinguishing characteristic if otherwise able to perform the essential functions of a job with reasonable accommodations. Persons with a disability who need assistance in the application process or those needing this announcement in an alternate format may email recruit@helenaschools.org or call (406) 324-2010. TTY users should first call 711 to access the Traditional Relay Service from Montana Relay.