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New Grad Occupational Therapy Jobs in Springfield, MA

Occupational Therapist

Hartford, CT ยท On-site

$40.50 - $53.50/hr

The role includes providing therapy to restore function, prevent disability following injury or ... of new certified staff members. * Provide evaluations for certified staff. Qualifications:

Occupational Therapist

Hartford, CT ยท On-site

$40.50 - $53.50/hr

) Touchpoints Therapy is looking for an Occupational Therapist to join the team at Hartford area ... of new certified staff members. * Provide evaluations for certified staff. Qualifications:

Occupational Therapist

Hartford, CT

$40.50 - $53.50/hr

Touchpoints Therapy is looking for an Occupational Therapist to join the team at Hartford area ... of new certified staff members. * Provide evaluations for certified staff. Qualifications:

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New Grad Occupational Therapy information

See Springfield, MA salary details

$23

$45

$66

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

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for new grad occupational therapy in Springfield, MA is $45.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.56 and $50.77 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 Springfield, MA are hiring for New Grad Occupational Therapy jobs?

Cities near Springfield, MA with the most New Grad Occupational Therapy job openings:

Infographic showing various New Grad Occupational Therapy job openings in Springfield, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 61% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,044 per year, or $45.2 per hour.

Occupational Therapy Assistant - FT

Rehab Advisors

Suffield, CT โ€ข On-site

$27.75 - $37/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Must be a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to apply

Employment Type:Full-Time

Setting: Skilled Nursing Facility | Long-Term Care


Exciting opportunity withRehab Advisors in-house management client!

Join a leading therapy organization with 30+ years of excellence in care and team development.

Why You'll Love Working with Us:

Rehab Advisors, part of the Enhance Therapies family of companies, is hiring a Occupational Therapy Assistant - FT to join their client's in-house therapy program. Just as you're committed to delivering high-quality care, we're committed to supporting your professional growth and long-term success.

Why You'll Love This Role:

  • Unparalleled schedule flexibility to fit your lifestyle
  • Comprehensive healthcare benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision)
  • Additional benefits and perks are available - reach out today to learn more!

What You'll Do:

  • Provide occupational therapy treatments under the supervision of an OT
  • Assist in implementing personalized care plans focused on functional goals
  • Collaborate with team members to ensure quality outcomes
  • Maintain documentation to meetall regulatory requirements
  • Ensure all required physician orders are obtained and up to date

Qualifications:

  • Associates degree from an AOTA-accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program
  • Certified by the NBCOT as a COTA, if required by the state
  • Current license as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant in the state of practice
  • Strong communication and organizational skills
  • New grads welcome!

About Enhance Therapies

Enhance Therapies is a family of therapy companies with more than 30 years of industry-leading experience in delivering high-quality rehabilitation services. With over 8,000 therapists in 30+ states, we proudly serve patients in skilled nursing, home health, seniorliving, outpatient, and hospital settings through both contract and in-house management models.

Our mission is to empower clinicians and elevate care through innovative programs, unmatched clinical support, and a strong culture of collaboration. Each of our local brands, includingRehab Advisors, is supported by the strength and stability of Enhance Therapies while maintaining its unique community-focused identity.

Related: Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant | COTA | AOTA

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