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Entry Level Occupational Therapy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

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

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

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

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

Occupational Therapist

Shelton, CT · On-site

$63.75 - $82.50/hr

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

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

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

New

Occupational Therapist

Portland, ME · On-site

$55.59 - $69.49/hr

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

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Entry Level Occupational Therapy information

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

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level occupational therapy in the United States is $45.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.70 and $50.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level occupational therapists?

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 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.

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.

Who gets paid more, PT or OT?

Occupational therapists (OTs) generally earn higher salaries than physical therapists (PTs) due to differences in education requirements and scope of practice. OTs typically hold a master's or doctoral degree and work in diverse settings such as hospitals and schools, which can influence salary levels. Both roles are licensed healthcare professionals with specialized skills, but OTs tend to have higher average pay.

Can OT help with hypermobility?

Entry level occupational therapists can assist individuals with hypermobility by developing strategies to improve joint stability, reduce pain, and prevent injury. They may use exercises, activity modifications, and education to help clients manage symptoms and improve function.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Occupational Therapist, and why are they important?

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 to get started in occupational therapy?

To start a career in occupational therapy, obtain a bachelor's degree in a related field, then complete a master's or doctoral degree in occupational therapy from an accredited program. After graduation, pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam to become licensed, and develop skills in patient assessment, therapy planning, and use of adaptive tools. Gaining clinical experience through internships or fieldwork is also essential.

What is an entry level occupational therapist?

An entry-level occupational therapist is a professional who has recently completed their education and licensure requirements to provide therapy services. They work under supervision to help clients develop or recover daily living and work skills, often in healthcare or community settings, using assessments and therapeutic interventions.
More about Entry Level Occupational Therapy jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Occupational Therapy jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Occupational Therapy job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Occupational Therapy jobs? The most popular types of Occupational Therapy jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Occupational Therapy jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Occupational Therapy jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Occupational Therapy job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,375 per year, or $45.4 per hour.

Other

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

ob Summary: Provide skilled therapy intervention and treatment to patients in the home setting. This care includes appropriate utilization of treatment plans and assessment skills. Careful monitoring of the patientas status and progress toward goals as well as compliance with physicianas orders. Responsible for educating patients and caregivers while preparing the patient/caregiver for discharge as appropriate.

Qualifications/Educational Requirements:

1. A person who

G

(a) (1) Is licensed or otherwise regulated, if applicable, as an Occupational Therapist by the State in which practicing, unless licensure does not apply;

(2) Graduated after successful completion of an Occupational Therapist education program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc. (AOTA), or successor organizations of ACOTE; and

(3) Is eligible to take, or has successfully completed the entry-level certification examination for Occupational Therapists developed and administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc. (NBCOT).

(b) On or before December 31, 2009a"

(1) Is licensed or otherwise regulated, if applicable, as an Occupational Therapist by the State in which practicing; or

(2) When licensure or other regulation does not applya"

(i) Graduated after successful completion of an Occupational Therapist education program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc. (AOTA) or successor organizations of ACOTE; and

(ii) Is eligible to take, or has successfully completed the entry-level certification examination for Occupational Therapists developed and administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc., (NBCOT).

(c) On or before January 1, 2008a"

(1) Graduated after successful completion of an occupational therapy program accredited jointly by the committee on Allied Health Education and Accreditation of the American Medical Association and the American Occupational Therapy Association; or

(2) Is eligible for the National Registration Examination of the American Occupational Therapy Association or the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy.

(d) On or before December 31, 1977a"

(1) Had 2 years of appropriate experience as an Occupational Therapist; and

(2) Had achieved a satisfactory grade on an Occupational Therapist proficiency examination conducted, approved, or sponsored by the U.S. Public Health Service.

(e) If educated outside the United States, on or after January 1, 2008 must meet all of the following:

(1) Graduated after successful completion of an Occupational Therapist education program accredited as substantially equivalent to Occupational Therapist entry level education in the United States by one of the following:

(i) The Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE).

(ii) Successor organizations.

(iii) The World Federation of Occupational Therapists.

(iv) A credentialing body approved by the American Occupational Therapy Association.

(2) Successfully completed the entry-level certification examination for Occupational Therapists developed and administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc. (NBCOT).

Responsibilities/essential functions: The person in this position must be able to perform the following essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodations.

1. Implement occupational therapy services in accordance with physicianas plan of treatment. *

2. Assist the physician in the evaluation and assessment of the clientas level of
functioning by applying appropriate tests and assist in the development and revision of the plan of care. *

3. Treat the client through use of therapeutic activities designed to restore function and self care activities for improving function. *

4. Observe record and report the clientsa reaction to treatment and any changes in the clientsa condition to the physician, Clinical Manager and Case Manager. *

5. Educate client/caregiver and health care team in the phases of occupational therapy in which they may assist the client, in the use of adaptive devices, and durable medical equipment, as appropriate. *

6. Provides staff in-service education as directed by Clinical Manager.

7. Assess and regularly re-evaluate the needs of the client, develop, implement and revise the clientas plan of care. *

8. Initiate diagnostic, preventive and rehabilitative procedures as appropriate to the clientas care safety. *

9. Assist with plan of care and maintain continuity of multidisciplinary clients whenever needed to ensure good coordination of care.

10. Promote coordination of care through interdisciplinary case conferences and communication with physician and field staff. *

11. Develop, prepare and maintain individualized client care progress records with accuracy, timeliness and according to policies. Submit accurate documentation in accordance with agency policies. *

12. Keep abreast of occupational trends and knowledge for service provision, documentation and care coordination.

13. Participate in staff meetings, in-service programs and Utilization reviews.

14. Participate in the agencyas quality improvement program. *

15. Supervise the Occupational Therapy Aide at least every 30 days.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The work environment and physical demands described here are representative of those required by an employee to perform to the essential functions of this job with or without reasonable accommodations.

Physical Elements

  • Sufficient clarity of speech and hearing or other communication capabilities, with or without reasonable accommodation, to enable the employee to communicate effectively;
  • Sufficient vision or other powers of observation, with or without reasonable accommodation, to enable the employee to review a wide variety of materials in electronic or hard copy form;
  • Sufficient manual dexterity, with or without reasonable accommodation, to enable the employee to operate a personal computer, telephone, and other related equipment;
  • Sufficient personal mobility and physical reflexes, with or without reasonable accommodation, to enable the employee to safely lift, move, or maneuver whatever may be necessary to successfully perform the duties of their position;
  • Sufficient personal mobility and physical reflexes, with or without reasonable accommodation, to enable the employee to efficiently function in a general office environment; and
  • Sufficient personal mobility and physical reflexes, with or without reasonable accommodation, to enable the employee to efficiently function in a general office environment, with frequent travel to a variety of field sites.

Environmental Elements

Employee works in an office environment sometimes with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions and sometimes travels to patients homes where they may have direct exposure to hazardous substances. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.

Employee will have to travel to a variety of patient homes and perform in conditions that vary greatly depending upon the clientas home environment. Some homes will be clean, neat, and maintained at a comfortable temperature. Other homes may be cluttered, dirty, with an uncomfortable temperature.

The above list reflects the essential functions and other job functions considered necessary of the job identified, and shall not be construed as a detailed description of all work requirements that may be inherent in the job, or assigned by supervisory personnel. This job description is used as a guide only and not inclusive of responsibilities and job duties.

By my signature, I acknowledge that I have read and understand this job description and its requirement and that I am expected to complete all duties as assigned. I understand the job functions may be altered from time to time.

Job Type: Part-time

Salary: $50.00 - $55.00 per hour

Medical specialties:

  • Home Health