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New Grad Occupational Therapy Jobs in Rochester, NY

Caledonia Fire District

Occupational Therapist

Caledonia, NY · On-site

$37.75 - $49.75/hr

Hold a Bachelor's or Master's degree in occupational therapy or completion of a program acceptable to the New York State Education Department (NYSED). * Be committed to establishing a positive school ...

Stern at Home Therapy

Occupational Therapist

Rochester, NY · On-site

$39.75 - $52.25/hr

... NY | Full-Time, Part-Time & PRN Stern at Home Therapy is hiring Full-Time, Part-Time, and PRN Occupational Therapists (OTs) to provide one-on-one care across two established Assisted Living ...

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All JobsNew Grad Occupational Therapy JobsNew Grad Occupational Therapy Jobs in Rochester, NY

New Grad Occupational Therapy information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$23

$44

$66

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

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for new grad occupational therapy in Rochester, NY is $44.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.17 and $50.29 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 are popular job titles related to New Grad Occupational Therapy jobs in Rochester, NY?

For New Grad Occupational Therapy jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching New Grad Occupational Therapy jobs in Rochester, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for New Grad Occupational Therapy jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for New Grad Occupational Therapy jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most New Grad Occupational Therapy job openings:

New Grad Occupational Therapy jobs near you
Infographic showing various New Grad Occupational Therapy job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 60% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,116 per year, or $44.8 per hour.

Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)- Per Diem- Ontario

Sigma Health Rehab

Canandaigua, NY

$30 - $35/hr

Other

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Sigma Health Rehab is actively seeking a per diem Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA/COTA) to work in a Skilled Nursing Facility.

 What we offer our OTA/COTAs:

·           Highly competitive compensation

·           Mentorship and clinical support for all therapists

·           Willing to hire and train new grad physical therapists!

·           PT career growth opportunities

·           Weekly paychecks

·           Employee recognition

·           Flexible schedules

·           Evening and weekend hours available

·           Access to state of the art technology

Duties of an exceptional therapist include:

  • Select therapy activities that follow the plan of care set out by the supervising occupational therapist

  • Assist residents in carrying out daily activities.

  • Monitor residents' performance in therapy activities, provide encouragement and document on residents as needed.

  • Teach residents how to use special equipment to assist with daily function.

  • collaborate with the OT to establish a rehabilitation plan.

  • Maintains a cooperative relationship among healthcare team members & contributes to team effort

COTA Requirements Include:

  • Graduate of an accredited OTA Program

  • Current New York State OTA License

Sigma Health Rehab is recruiting for a per diem Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) position at our client facility, Ontario Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing located in Canandaigua, New York. Our team of compassionate physical, occupational, and speech therapists provides rehab services in a state-of-the-art rehab gym. Whether you are a seasoned professional or at the beginning of your career, utilize your talents as an Occupational Therapy Assistant to improve the lives of others.