1

Occupational Therapy Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Occupational Therapy Assistant

Ackley, IA

$24.25 - $32.50/hr

Millennium Therapy is looking to add a Full-Time Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to our staff in Ackley, IA for the Skilled Nursing setting. Millennium Therapy is a patient focused, therapist ...

Occupational Therapy Assistant

Ames, IA

$25.50 - $34.25/hr

Millennium Therapy is looking to add a Full-Time, Part-Time, or PRN Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to our staff in Ames, IA for the Skilled Nursing setting. Millennium Therapy is a patient ...

$21.26 - $30.26/hr

We are growing and looking for a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant to join the team. We want a COTA that believes in the benefits of occupational therapy and has a passion for what they do.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Occupational Therapy Assistant information

See salary details

$17

$29

$46

How much do occupational therapy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for occupational therapy assistant in the United States is $29.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.00 and $33.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can OT help with hypermobility?

Occupational therapy assistants (OTAs) can support individuals with hypermobility by developing personalized exercises to improve joint stability, strength, and function. They often work under the supervision of an occupational therapist to help clients manage symptoms and adapt daily activities accordingly.

What is the difference between Occupational Therapy Assistant vs Physical Therapy Assistant?

AspectOccupational Therapy AssistantPhysical Therapy Assistant
CredentialsAssociate's degree in occupational therapy assisting, certification requiredAssociate's degree in physical therapy assisting, licensure or certification required
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, schools, rehabilitation centersHospitals, outpatient clinics, rehab centers, sports facilities
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare providers focusing on daily living skillsHealthcare providers focusing on mobility and physical function

Both roles support patient recovery but focus on different aspects: Occupational Therapy Assistants help patients regain daily living skills, while Physical Therapy Assistants focus on improving mobility and physical function. They often work together in healthcare settings to provide comprehensive care.

What does an Occupational Therapy Assistant do?

An Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) works under the supervision of an occupational therapist to help patients develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working. OTAs assist with implementing treatment plans, teaching patients how to use adaptive equipment, and documenting progress. They work with individuals of all ages who may have physical, developmental, or emotional challenges, helping them achieve greater independence.

What are some common challenges Occupational Therapy Assistants face when working with diverse patient populations?

Occupational Therapy Assistants often work with individuals of varying ages, backgrounds, and medical conditions, which can present challenges in communication and adapting therapeutic approaches. It's important to be flexible and creative when tailoring interventions to meet each patient's unique needs and cultural preferences. Additionally, balancing a busy caseload while ensuring personalized care for each client requires strong organizational and time-management skills. Collaborating closely with occupational therapists and other healthcare professionals is key to overcoming these challenges and providing effective patient support.

Is OTA a low stress job?

Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs) typically work in healthcare settings assisting patients with rehabilitation, which can involve physically and emotionally demanding tasks. The job's stress level varies depending on the work environment, patient needs, and workload, but it generally requires strong communication skills and adaptability to manage challenging situations effectively.

What exactly does an occupational therapist assistant do?

An occupational therapy assistant helps patients develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working under the supervision of an occupational therapist. They implement treatment plans, assist with exercises, and use therapeutic activities to support patient progress in settings like hospitals, clinics, or rehabilitation centers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Occupational Therapy Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Occupational Therapy Assistant, you need an associate degree from an accredited OTA program, state licensure, and a solid understanding of anatomy, therapeutic techniques, and patient care. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), adaptive equipment, and rehabilitation software is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and adaptability help build rapport with clients and support effective therapy delivery. These skills and qualifications enable OTAs to provide high-quality care, support patient progress, and work efficiently within healthcare teams.

Where do OTAs get paid the most?

Occupational Therapy Assistants tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare services, such as metropolitan areas and states with robust healthcare industries. Factors like experience, certifications, and working in specialized settings can also influence salary levels.

What Does an Occupational Therapy Assistant Do?

Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTA) work with Occupational Therapists (OT) to help patients with disabilities to develop skills for daily living. They work with patients to complete activities, use helpful tools and devices, and practice skills and positive behaviors. They also help facilitate sessions by setting up, transporting patients, and completing administrative tasks.

What cities are hiring for Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Occupational Therapy Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Occupational Therapy jobs? The most popular types of Occupational Therapy jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs? The top employers for Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs are:
What states have the most Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Occupational Therapy Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,491 per year, or $29.6 per hour.
Occupational Therapy Assistant

Occupational Therapy Assistant

Millennium Therapy

Cresco, IA

$24.50 - $33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

ABOUT US:

Millennium Therapy is looking to add a Full-Time Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to our staff in Cresco, IA for the Skilled Nursing setting. Millennium Therapy is a patient focused, therapist owned, and therapist managed company that operates throughout Iowa providing Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy in various settings. The local home office provides quick support to our associates. Our therapy teams succeed through patient tailored treatments, flexible scheduling, and effective communication to meet the individualized goals of each patient.

PAY:

Negotiable - based on experience

HOURS:

30-40 Hours/Week Flexible

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSISTANT (COTA) BENEFITS:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • 401k
  • Personal Day(s)
  • PTO
  • Continuing Education
  • Flexible Scheduling & More!

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSISTANT (COTA) QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Associate Degree in Occupational Therapy Assistant from an AOTA accredited program and Professional Licensure in the state of hire or eligible for licensure in states that regulate the Occupational Therapy Assistant.
  • Demonstrates effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Utilizes effective time management skills.
  • Strong organizational and analytical skills.

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSISTANT (COTA) REQUIREMENTS:

  • Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTA) assist in the provision of screens, collection of assessment data, and direct treatment of caseload. Conducts resident screens (without interpretation) as directed by the supervising therapist.
  • Participates in the clinical team process.
  • Provides teaching and training to caregiver staff. Participates in clinical program development.
  • Collects assessment data, as part of the evaluation process, as directed by the supervising Occupational Therapist.
  • Provides training to patients, residents, caregivers, and families according to the plan of care outlined by the supervising therapist. Prepares treatment materials and assists with other clerical duties as directed.

#hc160030