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New Grad Occupational Therapy Jobs in Park Ridge, IL

Select and adapt the appropriate per case occupational therapy treatment model, method and approach ... Teach clients new ways of approaching tasks and educate them on how to break down activities into ...

Select and adapt the appropriate per case occupational therapy treatment model, method and approach ... Teach clients new ways of approaching tasks and educate them on how to break down activities into ...

Select and adapt the appropriate per case occupational therapy treatment model, method and approach ... Teach clients new ways of approaching tasks and educate them on how to break down activities into ...

Occupational Therapist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$41.50 - $54.75/hr

... case occupational therapy treatment model, method and approach to direct the process of ... clients new ways of approaching tasks and educate them on how to break down activities into ...

Showing results 41-60

New Grad Occupational Therapy information

See Park Ridge, IL salary details

$22

$44

$65

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

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for new grad occupational therapy in Park Ridge, IL is $44.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.08 and $50.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

What are popular job titles related to New Grad Occupational Therapy jobs in Park Ridge, IL? For New Grad Occupational Therapy jobs in Park Ridge, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching New Grad Occupational Therapy jobs in Park Ridge, IL look for? The top searched job categories for New Grad Occupational Therapy jobs in Park Ridge, IL are:
What cities near Park Ridge, IL are hiring for New Grad Occupational Therapy jobs? Cities near Park Ridge, IL with the most New Grad Occupational Therapy job openings:

Occupational Therapy Assistant

Legacy Healthcare Services, Inc.

Wheaton, IL • On-site

$29 - $35/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Legacy Healthcare Services rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 50 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

452nd of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Make an impact. Change lives. Live a Legacy.

Experience a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant career that's full of joy, purpose, and opportunities to grow. We're seeking talented, creative, and compassionate professionals who enjoy building relationships with patients, learning new ways to deliver care, and being part of a team dedicated to helping senior patients live their best lives.

Come join our dynamic team of rehabilitation therapists! This opportunity will allow you to get the most out of your career as you:

  • Share your skills and training as a valued member of our on-site rehabilitative care team by assisting with rehabilitative services for patients under specific medical orders as part of a coordinated team.
  • Provide attentive one-on-one therapy services for residents, administering functional treatments that emphasize a holistic, patient-centered approach to care.
  • Get mentorship and valuable hands-on experience utilizing innovative technologies and therapeutic treatments.
  • Advance your career, pursue clinical interests, and develop subject matter expertise.
Your Legacy career offers great experiences, work/life balance, and excellent rewards, including:
  • Desirable Monday-Friday schedule with no weekend or holiday requirements
  • 401(k)
  • Medical/dental/vision/prescription/pet insurance
  • Paid time off (PTO) with rollover and buyout options at year's end
  • Company-paid group life
  • Flex spending account
  • Voluntary life, short-term disability, and long-term disability insurance
  • Licensure reimbursement
  • Company-provided CEUs and unlimited online CEUs for full-time employees
  • Career advancement opportunities
Discover what makes Legacy Healthcare Services different:
  • Our not-for-profit organization offers personalized therapeutic care for residents within senior living communities, offering rehabilitative care that helps improve their quality of life.
  • Our organization was founded by and continues to be led by therapists.
  • We are one of the largest providers of on-site senior therapy care in the country, serving nearly 500 senior living communities throughout the U.S. and growing!
  • We are leaders in innovation and personalized care, which makes us a preferred provider for senior adults residing in the communities we serve.
Position requirements:
  • Associates of applied science degree in area of discipline
  • Current occupational therapy assistant license in state of practice, or ability to obtain one prior to starting
  • Excellent interpersonal, fiscal, and clinical skills
  • Computer proficiency
Pay RangeUSD $29.00 - USD $35.00 /Hr.Employment Type: PART_TIME

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