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New Grad Occupational Therapy Jobs in Springfield, OR

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New Grad Occupational Therapy information

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$24

$46

$69

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

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for new grad occupational therapy in Springfield, OR is $46.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.05 and $52.74 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.

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

The top searched job categories for New Grad Occupational Therapy jobs in Springfield, OR are:

What cities near Springfield, OR are hiring for New Grad Occupational Therapy jobs?

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

Infographic showing various New Grad Occupational Therapy job openings in Springfield, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 57% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,681 per year, or $47 per hour.

Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA)

Valley West Health Care Center

Eugene, OR โ€ข On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Full-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Job Type: Full-time, PRN

Salary Range: $32 - $40, $40 - $45 based on experience

Available Schedules: Sunday-Thursday or Tuesday-Saturday

New Graduates Encouraged to Apply

Benefits (for full-time positions):

  • Continuing Education Credits (CEUs)
  • Flexible work schedules
  • Student loan repayment assistance
  • Career advancement opportunities and pathways to leadership roles
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company matching
  • Paid vacation, six holidays, one personal day, and sick leave that starts accruing immediately
  • Life insurance and short/long-term disability coverage
  • Medical, dental, vision, and health savings accounts
Work Environment & Population Served

Our facilities function as Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs) that offer:

  • Long-term care for residents needing ongoing skilled support and compassionate daily assistance
  • Short-term, sub-acute rehabilitation for patients recovering from surgery, illness, or injury
  • Collaborative care through a team-based approach involving nursing, therapy, and medical staff
  • A diverse patient demographic including individuals with orthopedic, neurological, cardiopulmonary, and post-acute needs

The patient mix may vary slightly by facility. As a therapy professional, you will assist patients in achieving functional improvements and enhancing their quality of life in a supportive, patient-focused environment.

Position Overview

The Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA) delivers direct rehabilitation services in occupational therapy to patients referred by physicians, under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist (OT), in compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and organizational standards.

Education, Experience, and Licensing Requirements
  • Must be NBCOT certified upon hire; renewal is optional thereafter
  • Graduate from an accredited occupational therapy program (ASOT)
  • Currently registered or licensed in the applicable state, with an active license in good standing throughout employment
  • Preferred: One (1) year of experience in post-acute care or a related setting
  • CPR certification required upon hire or to be obtained during orientation; must remain current throughout employment
Specific Job Responsibilities
  • Engage in community health initiatives/projects as appropriate
  • Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and email communication
  • Coordinate with patients, families, and support departments to effectively address patient needs
  • Exhibit proper body mechanics at all times
  • Make independent decisions when necessary
  • Familiar with practices, procedures, and regulations governing operations in post-acute care facilities
  • Implement and interpret departmental programs, goals, objectives, policies, and procedures
  • Demonstrate proficiency in all competency areas, including patient rights, safety, and sanitation
  • Maintain professional relationships with colleagues, vendors, and others
  • Ensure confidentiality of all proprietary and confidential information
  • Adhere to company policies, including those related to harassment and compliance
  • Exhibit integrity and professionalism by following the organization’s Code of Conduct and completing mandatory compliance training
Essential Functions
  • Implement occupational treatment plans for patients under the guidance of the supervising OT
  • Document patient progress accurately and in a timely manner
  • Utilize therapy software effectively and accurately
  • Provide excellent customer service and maintain a positive attitude towards patients
  • Assist in the safe evacuation of patients when necessary
  • Demonstrate reliable and consistent attendance
  • Employ reasoning skills and sound judgment in all situations
  • Collaborate effectively within an interdisciplinary team
  • Engage in various physical activities such as sitting, standing, bending, lifting, pushing, pulling, stooping, walking, reaching, and moving intermittently during work hours
  • Read, write, speak, and comprehend the English language

An Equal Opportunity Employer