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New Grad Occupational Therapy Jobs in Springfield, MA

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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 Therapist - FT

Tender Touch Rehab Services

Vernon Rockville, CT โ€ข On-site

$40 - $52.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Occupational Therapist - FT

Exciting opportunity with Tender Touch Rehab Services! Join a leading therapy organization with 30+ years of excellence in care and team development.

Tender Touch Rehab Services, part of the Enhance Therapies family of companies, is hiring an Occupational Therapist - FT to join our growing and passionate team. We support our clinicians with competitive pay, a collaborative work environment, and industry-leading clinical education so you can focus on what matters most: making a difference in people's lives. Just as you're committed to delivering high-quality care, we're committed to supporting your professional growth and long-term success.

What We Offer:

  • Supportive company culture rooted in mentorship and collaboration
  • Unparalleled schedule flexibility to fit your lifestyle
  • Comprehensive healthcare benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision)
  • 401(k) with company match to invest in your future
  • Online CEU credits to support your clinical growth
  • Opportunities for promotion, advancement, and internal transfers
  • Dynamic partnerships with leading facilities for career stability
  • Student mentor program and ongoing professional development
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for life's unexpected moments
  • Referral bonus program
  • Immigration support for H1B candidates, including transfers and new filings
  • Additional benefits and perks are available - reach out today to learn more!

What You'll Do:

  • Evaluate and treat patients with functional, cognitive, and ADL impairments
  • Create and implement personalized care plans
  • Collaborate with team members to ensure quality outcomes
  • Maintain documentation to meet all regulatory requirements
  • Ensure all required physician orders are obtained and up to date

Qualifications:

  • Degree in Occupational Therapy (BS, MS, MA, or OTD) from an AOTA-accredited program
  • Certified by the NBCOT as an OTR, if required by the state
  • Current license as an Occupational Therapist in the state of practice
  • Strong communication and organizational skills
  • New grads welcome! Mentorship available

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, senior living, outpatient, and hospital settings.

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, including Tender Touch Rehab Services, is supported by the strength and stability of Enhance Therapies while maintaining its unique community-focused identity.