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New Grad Occupational Therapy Jobs in Raleigh, NC

NC- COTA- Raleigh

Raleigh, NC ยท On-site

$27.75 - $37/hr

IF THESE ITEMS ARE NOT ATTACHED, THE CANDIDATE WILL BE DECLINED, THANK YOU New Grad are okay. SNF ... Rehabilitation Therapy Sub Specialties: COTA (Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant) General ...

Occupational Therapist

Clayton, NC ยท On-site

$34.25 - $45/hr

We are looking for someone who is eager to work with children in our clinics, experienced in providing occupational therapy and/feeding services, and interested in learning new and innovative ...

Occupational Therapist

Clayton, NC ยท On-site

$34.25 - $45/hr

We are looking for someone who is eager to work with children in our clinics, experienced in providing occupational therapy and/feeding services, and interested in learning new and innovative ...

Occupational Therapist

Henderson, NC ยท On-site

$37.50 - $49.50/hr

... Therapy & Rehabilitation is a patient focused practice with offices in Beulaville, Goldsboro ... We are searching for an OT to work in our new Henderson location. We provide evaluation and ...

Occupational Therapist

Louisburg, NC ยท On-site

$36 - $47.50/hr

... Therapy & Rehabilitation is a patient focused practice with offices in Beulaville, Goldsboro ... We are searching for an OT to work in our new Louisburg location. We provide evaluation and ...

Occupational Therapist

Louisburg, NC ยท On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Advantage Therapy & Rehabilitation is a patient focused practice with offices in Beulaville ... We are searching for an OT to work in our new Louisburg location. We provide evaluation and ...

Lead Occupational Therapist

Durham, NC ยท On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs) to deliver high-quality, client-centered care for children ... Mentor new hires and interns, facilitating their onboarding and clinical development. * Support ...

Lead Occupational Therapist

Chapel Hill, NC ยท On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs) to deliver high-quality, client-centered care for children ... Mentor new hires and interns, facilitating their onboarding and clinical development. * Support ...

Senior Occupational Therapist

Durham, NC ยท On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs) to deliver high-quality, client-centered care for children ... Mentor new hires and interns, facilitating their onboarding and clinical development. * Support ...

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New Grad Occupational Therapy information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$22

$44

$65

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

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for new grad occupational therapy in Raleigh, NC is $44.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.60 and $49.52 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 near Raleigh, NC are hiring for New Grad Occupational Therapy jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most New Grad Occupational Therapy job openings:

Infographic showing various New Grad Occupational Therapy job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,735 per year, or $44.1 per hour.

NC- COTA- Raleigh

Boston Services

Raleigh, NC โ€ข On-site

$27.75 - $37/hr

Other

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

PLEASE INCLUDE RESUME AND LICENSE VERIFICATION ALSO NEEDS TO BE ATTACHED. IF THESE ITEMS ARE NOT ATTACHED, THE CANDIDATE WILL BE DECLINED, THANK YOU New Grad are okay. SNF Experience preferred Covid test 72 hours prior to start date with results issued 48 hours prior to start date

Shift: DAYS

Specialty Type: Rehabilitation Therapy

Sub Specialties: COTA (Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant)

General Certifications: N/A

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