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Entry Level Occupational Therapy Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Occupational Therapist

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$37.50 - $49.25/hr

... therapy. Is eligible to take or has successfully completed the NBCOT entry-level certification examination for occupational therapists. Lifting 50 pounds' maximum with frequent lifting and or ...

The entry-level occupational therapy doctoral degree program has applied for accreditation and has been granted Candidacy Status by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE ...

The entry-level occupational therapy doctoral degree program has applied for accreditation and has been granted Candidacy Status by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE ...

Occupational Therapist

Fort Dodge, IA · On-site

$39 - $51.25/hr

... Occupational Therapy Association, Inc. (AOTA), or successor organizations of ACOTE * Eligible to take, or has successfully completed the entry-level certification examination for Occupational ...

Part time/PRN- Occupational Therapist

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$37.75 - $49.75/hr

If Nursing has opened the case, Occupational Therapy is a secondary discipline and therefore works ... entry level certification exam for OTs from the NBCOT. Is currently licensed in Iowa. Will have a ...

Part time/PRN- Occupational Therapist

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$37.75 - $49.75/hr

If Nursing has opened the case, Occupational Therapy is a secondary discipline and therefore works ... entry level certification exam for OTs from the NBCOT. Is currently licensed in Iowa. Will have a ...

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Entry Level Occupational Therapy information

See Iowa salary details

$21

$42

$62

How much do entry level occupational therapy jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level occupational therapy in Iowa is $42.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36.35 and $47.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level occupational therapist?

Entry level occupational therapists are professionals who have recently completed their education and obtained the necessary licensure to practice occupational therapy. They typically work under supervision or mentorship as they gain experience, helping patients develop, recover, or improve the skills needed for daily living and working. Entry level occupational therapists may work in various settings, such as hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, or nursing homes. Their primary goal is to assist clients in achieving independence and improving their quality of life.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level occupational therapist?

To thrive as an Entry Level Occupational Therapist, you need a bachelor’s or master’s degree in occupational therapy, state licensure, and foundational knowledge in anatomy, therapeutic techniques, and patient assessment. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), adaptive equipment, and standardized assessment tools is typical in the role. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and problem-solving abilities help you connect with clients and tailor interventions effectively. These skills and qualities are vital for delivering personalized care that improves patients’ independence and quality of life.

How do entry level occupational therapists typically collaborate with other healthcare professionals in a clinical setting?

Entry-level occupational therapists frequently work as part of multidisciplinary teams that may include physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, nurses, and physicians. Collaboration is essential for creating comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs. You’ll participate in team meetings, share progress updates, and coordinate interventions to ensure consistent care. This teamwork not only helps improve patient outcomes but also provides valuable learning opportunities for new therapists.

What is the difference between Entry Level Occupational Therapy vs Occupational Therapist?

AspectEntry Level Occupational TherapyOccupational Therapist
CredentialsMaster's degree in Occupational Therapy, passing the NBCOT examMaster's or Doctorate in Occupational Therapy, licensed and certified
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, schools, outpatient centersSame as entry level, often with more responsibility and specialization
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist patients with daily activities, implement treatment plansDevelop treatment plans, supervise assistants, evaluate progress

Entry Level Occupational Therapy roles focus on assisting patients under supervision, while Occupational Therapists have advanced responsibilities, including developing treatment plans and supervising staff. Both roles require similar credentials and work in comparable environments, but the level of responsibility distinguishes them.

What are the most commonly searched types of Occupational Therapy jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Occupational Therapy jobs in Iowa are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Occupational Therapy jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Occupational Therapy jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Entry Level Occupational Therapy jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Entry Level Occupational Therapy job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Occupational Therapy job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 9% As Needed, 51% Full Time, 36% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,643 per year, or $42.6 per hour.

Occupational Therapist

Waterloo, IA • On-site

The JAG Group
1 - 10 employees

$37.50 - $49.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Occupational Therapist

Location: Waterloo, IA      

*NEW GRADS WELCOME*  *WILL PROVIDE SPONSORSHIP*

Job Description                  

Our Occupational Therapists / OT are the cornerstone to the company commitment to caring. The Occupational Therapist will treat injured, ill, or disabled patients through the therapeutic use of everyday activities. Occupational Therapist will be focused on planning, organizing, developing, administering, directing and supervising Occupational Therapy treatment. If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding career assisting our patients in a time of need, then we are looking for YOU!

Occupational Therapist

Job Requirements

Master's Degree in Occupational Therapy or a foreign degree equivalent as accepted by US Citizenship and Immigration Services or a Bachelor's Degree or foreign degree equivalent plus 5 years of progressive, post-baccalaureate experience.

Minimum Education - Bachelor's Degree

Currently licensed or registered as an occupational therapist by the state in which practicing, unless that State does not license occupational therapists or otherwise regulate the practice of occupational therapy. Is eligible to take or has successfully completed the NBCOT entry-level certification examination for occupational therapists.

Lifting 50 pounds’ maximum with frequent lifting and or carrying of objects weighing up to 25 pounds. Walking, standing, bending, stooping and sitting for prolonged periods. Full use of gross and fine motor skills of the upper and lower extremities.

Visa Candidate Considered: Yes

Occupational Therapist

Benefits

Our hires are treated to competitive pay and an excellent benefits package. To learn more about pay and benefits, please apply today!

The JAG Group

Derrick Green

404-874-3624

jobs@thejaggroup.com

678-904-7808 fax