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New Grad Occupational Therapy Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

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New Grad Occupational Therapy information

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$19

$38

$56

How much do new grad occupational therapy jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for new grad occupational therapy in Georgia is $38.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.69 and $43.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a new grad occupational therapist?

New Grad Occupational Therapists are individuals who have recently completed their occupational therapy degree and have either just obtained or are in the process of obtaining their professional licensure. They are typically in their first year of practice and are gaining hands-on experience by working with patients to help them develop, recover, or maintain the skills needed for daily living and working. New grads often work under the guidance of more experienced therapists and participate in mentorship or orientation programs to transition smoothly into their careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a new grad occupational therapist?

To thrive as a New Grad Occupational Therapist, you need a solid understanding of human anatomy, therapeutic techniques, and assessment skills, usually validated by a master's degree in occupational therapy and passing the NBCOT exam. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), standardized assessment tools, and documentation software is typically required. Strong interpersonal communication, problem-solving, and empathy are valuable soft skills that help build trust and motivate patients. These competencies ensure that new graduates can deliver effective, patient-centered care and adapt to diverse clinical environments.

What types of support and mentorship are typically available to new grad occupational therapists during their first year on the job?

New grad occupational therapists often receive structured support through formal mentorship programs, regular supervision sessions, and peer collaboration. Many employers pair new graduates with experienced OTs who provide guidance on caseload management, documentation, and clinical decision-making. Additionally, new grads may participate in orientation programs and continuing education workshops to further develop their skills. This supportive environment helps ease the transition from academic training to independent practice and fosters professional growth.

What is the difference between New Grad Occupational Therapy vs Occupational Therapist?

AspectNew Grad Occupational TherapyOccupational Therapist
CredentialsMaster's degree in Occupational Therapy, passing the NBCOT exam, state licensureMaster's or Doctorate in Occupational Therapy, licensed and certified
Work EnvironmentEntry-level settings such as hospitals, schools, outpatient clinicsVaried settings including hospitals, rehab centers, schools, private practices
ExperienceLess than 1 year, supervised or mentoredTypically 1+ years of experience, independent practice

In summary, New Grad Occupational Therapists are recent graduates beginning their careers with supervision, while Occupational Therapists have more experience and independence. Both roles require similar credentials, but experience level and responsibilities differ.

Can you start as a new graduate occupational therapist as soon as you graduate with a master's?

New graduate occupational therapists can typically begin working once they have completed their master's degree and obtained the necessary licensure or certification required by their region. Most employers require proof of graduation and licensure before employment, and some may offer supervised or entry-level positions to new graduates. Licensing exams are usually scheduled after graduation and are essential for independent practice.

How much do new graduate occupational therapists make after grad school?

New graduate occupational therapists typically earn between $55,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on location, setting, and workload. Entry-level salaries may vary based on state licensure requirements and demand for healthcare professionals in the area.

What cities in Georgia are hiring for New Grad Occupational Therapy jobs?

Cities in Georgia with the most New Grad Occupational Therapy job openings:

Infographic showing various New Grad Occupational Therapy job openings in Georgia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 56% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 21% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,688 per year, or $38.3 per hour.

Occupational Therapist - Part Time - Alpharetta

Elite Physical Therapy Mississippi

Roswell, GA โ€ข On-site

$37.75 - $49.75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Occupational Therapist โ€“ Outpatient Ortho

Build Your Outpatient Occupational Therapy Career with Us!

Alpharetta clinic in Roswell, GA

At Benchmark, part of the Upstream Rehabilitation network, you can focus on patient care while advancing your career in outpatient orthopedic physical therapy.

We're hiring full-time, part-time, and PRN Occupational Therapists โ€” including new grads โ€” who want competitive pay, strong mentorship, and a clear path to professional growth that flexes with every stage of your career.

Why Clinicians Choose Brand Name
  • Competitive Occupational Therapist salary: $80,000โ€“$90,000
  • Achievable monthly clinical bonus program, over 90% of clinicians qualify
  • Student loan repayment assistance โ€“ directly to the principle of your loan!
  • 100% employer paid medical health insurance premium option available
  • Dental and Vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Generous PTO and paid holidays
  • Structured onboarding for new-grad Occupational Therapists and ongoing mentorship
  • In-house Residency/Fellowship programs and robust CEU opportunities โ€“ with annual allowance!
  • Path to clinic ownership / partnership for long-term growth
  • Modern clinical technology that reduces documentation time so you can focus on patients
  • Supportive team and leadership invested in your success

What You'll Do as a Occupational Therapist

  • Develop individualized, evidence-based care plans for your patients
  • Deliver high-quality, outcomes-driven therapy
  • Collaborate with peers in a fun, values-driven team environment
  • Build lasting connections with patients and local providers
  • Continue learning and growing through Upstream's education and development programs

Qualifications

  • Graduate of an accredited Occupational Therapy program
  • Active Georgia Occupational Therapist license (or eligible) (must include state here for Indeed to pull that qualifier in)
  • A Better Place to Build Your OT Career

    When you join Upstream Rehabilitation, you get the strength of a national network with the feel of a local clinic. Our central support teams handle the administrative work, so you can focus on what matters most โ€” the patient in front of you. With a network of over 1,200 clinics coast-to-coast across 26 brand partners, we lead the industry in quality outcomes, leveraging data, technology, and innovation to reduce paperwork and give you more time for care.

    You'll be part of a fantastic group of clinicians who shape our culture, create a positive work environment, and know how to have fun along the way. It's easy to see why so many Therapists choose to grow their careers with Upstream.

    Estimated pay ranges listed above are based on several factors including but not limited to your pay class, experience, background and geographic location of the clinic

    Benefits and eligibility are dependent on employment status and pay class (full-time, part-time, or PRN). Specific details will be provided during the hiring process.