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New Grad Occupational Therapy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

New Grad Occupational Therapist

Kettering, OH · On-site

$35.75 - $47.25/hr

In cooperation with the referral source, provides therapy evaluation to determine the extent of the ... of Occupational therapy assistants and students, consultation with physicians and other team ...

Occupational Therapist

Gig Harbor, WA · On-site

$44.75 - $59/hr

Structured onboarding for new-grad Occupational Therapists and ongoing mentorship * In-house Residency/Fellowship programs and robust CEU opportunities - with annual allowance! * Path to clinic ...

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New Grad Occupational Therapy information

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$67

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

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for new grad occupational therapy in the United States is $45.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.70 and $50.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

More about New Grad Occupational Therapy jobs

What cities are hiring for New Grad Occupational Therapy jobs?

Cities with the most New Grad Occupational Therapy job openings:

What states have the most New Grad Occupational Therapy jobs?

States with the most job openings for New Grad Occupational Therapy jobs include:

Infographic showing various New Grad Occupational Therapy job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 59% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,375 per year, or $45.4 per hour.

New Grad Occupational Therapist

Kettering Health

Kettering, OH • On-site

$35.75 - $47.25/hr

Other

Posted 12 days ago


Kettering Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 189 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

306th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview
Kettering Health is a not-for-profit system of 14 medical centers and more than 120 outpatient facilities serving southwest Ohio. Our mission is to live God's love by promoting and restoring health. Our commitment to our patients is to help individuals be their best. With that context, safety is our top priority. We provide an integrated system of healthcare experts committed to providing exceptional care.
Responsibilities & Requirements
The Occupational Therapist is a licensed professional who evaluates and treats patients in accordance with state and national practice acts. In cooperation with the referral source, provides therapy evaluation to determine the extent of the symptoms and/or functional limitations relevant to the diagnosis. Develops treatment plan that is targeted and adjusted to decrease or eliminate the symptoms and functional limitations. Major tasks and duties include, but are not limited to: direct patient care, day to day patient scheduling, supervision of Occupational therapy assistants and students, consultation with physicians and other team members, documentation in the electronic medical record, quality assurance and performance improvement(QAPI), clinical education, guest relations, and billing for patient services rendered and other duties as assigned.
Specific Job Functions
Interprets medical history and performs a functional and comprehensive evaluation for adolescent, adult, and geriatric populations
Establishes an appropriate treatment plan based on the evaluation findings, the patient's individual goals, and current needs.
Develops goals which are objective, measurable, realistic, and in keeping with the patient's goals.
Demonstrates sound clinical decisions and clinical competence in implementing, modifying, and progressing therapy utilizing evidence based techniques to meet the individualized patient goals.
Establishes and maintains a therapeutic relationship with the patient, family, physician and other caregivers. Includes patient, family, and caregivers in the treatment process as appropriate.
Documents evaluations, treatment, progress notes, and/or discharge notes in a timely and accurate manner in accordance with the KHN documentation policy. Utilizes clear, concise, language for documentation. Completes other necessary documentation including but not limited to daily charges and re-certification letters for outpatients in a timely and accurate manner.
Documentation meets standards of CMS, HFAP, and other regulatory agencies
Meets the quality improvement and assurances standards of department including but not limited to: patient/family education and timeliness of discharge notes in accordance with KHN documentation policy.
Maintains/exceeds acceptable level of productivity based on current departmental standard. Prioritizes caseload/schedule based on patient acuity and departmental needs, assisting co-workers as needed. Accepts and completes assigned responsibilities and routine tasks in a timely manner.
Seeks opportunities for professional growth through literature review, participation in professional groups, in-services, and continuing education. Provides clinical supervision of OT and/or OTA students, OTA staff, rehab aides and volunteers. Seeks and accepts constructive suggestions and implements changes when needed. Demonstrates the ability to work as a team member toward achieving department goals.
Minimum Education
Graduation from an accredited school of occupational therapy required.
Bachelors, Masters, or Doctorate required.
Required Licenses
[Ohio, United States] Occupational Therapist
Must be licensed by the State of Ohio
NBCOT Registration Preferred

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