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Occupational Therapy Assistant Jobs in Rutherford, NJ

tmc

Occupational Therapy Assistant

Paramus, NJ · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Overview If you're a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) who wants to empower patients to achieve meaningful outcomes through compassionate and patient-centered therapy-this is it. In ...

tmc

Occupational Therapy Assistant

Paramus, NJ · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Overview If you're a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) who wants to empower patients to achieve meaningful outcomes through compassionate and patient-centered therapy--this is it. In ...

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All JobsOccupational Therapy JobsOccupational Therapy Assistant JobsOccupational Therapy Assistant Jobs in Rutherford, NJ

Occupational Therapy Assistant information

See Rutherford, NJ salary details

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$47

How much do occupational therapy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for occupational therapy assistant in Rutherford, NJ is $30.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.48 and $34.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an occupational therapy assistant?

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.

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.

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.

Is being an occupational therapy assistant worth it?

Occupational therapy assistants (OTAs) support licensed occupational therapists in helping patients develop or recover daily living and work skills. The role offers steady employment, a median annual salary around $62,000, and opportunities to work in hospitals, clinics, or schools, often requiring certification and strong interpersonal skills. Job satisfaction depends on working with diverse populations and the ability to make a positive impact on patients' lives.

Where do occupational therapy assistants 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.
More about Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Occupational Therapy jobs in Rutherford, NJ?

The most popular types of Occupational Therapy jobs in Rutherford, NJ are:

What job categories do people searching Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in Rutherford, NJ look for?

The top searched job categories for Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in Rutherford, NJ are:

What cities near Rutherford, NJ are hiring for Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs?

Cities near Rutherford, NJ with the most Occupational Therapy Assistant job openings:

Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Occupational Therapy Assistant job openings in Rutherford, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,686 per year, or $30.1 per hour.

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

PRN Physical, Occupational, & Speech Therapy

Brooklyn, NY • On-site

$30 - $38/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Description:

POSITION SUMMARY

The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) is a skilled professional who administers treatment plans according to the directives of the Occupational Therapist at the facility. The COTA assists the Occupational Therapist with patient documentation as directed by the Occupational Therapist.

POSITION DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES

A. COTAs demonstrate skill in the use and proper choice of occupational therapy techniques and treats patients effectively with good response.

  1. Maintains and enhances patient dignity and modesty during treatment.
  2. Shows appropriate therapist-patient rapport explaining the treatments and discussing the reasons for occupational therapy with patient, etc.
  3. Follows accepted precautions and contraindications for treatment.
  4. Utilizes appropriate therapeutic techniques.

B. COTAs provide accurate and timely patient records.

  1. Completes daily documentation procedures assuring that all services are appropriately accounted for from a clinical and billing perspective.
  2. Communicates and documents significant changes in patient progress as a result of treatment and accepts modified treatment plan if needed.
  3. Documents equipment provided, home programs and handouts given to the patient.
  4. Documents all communication with physicians and POA concerning patient's status.

C. COTAs communicate with others maintaining a professional attitude to assure quality care.

  1. If directed by the Occupational Therapist, contacts physicians as needed to clarify diagnosis or orders, change treatment, or discharge.
  2. Consults patient's POA, nurses, social workers, physical and speech therapists, and physicians as appropriate and needed.
  3. Notifies facility personnel and family as to use of equipment.
  4. Attends patient related meetings in accordance with facility policy.

D. COTAs demonstrate knowledge of insurance guidelines as related to applicable rehabilitation services.

E. COTAs perform all other duties and functions necessary for the maintenance of efficient, economic and quality operation of the department.

  1. Projects and maintains a professional appearance.
  2. Makes suggestions for department improvement and assists in development of these as appropriate.
  3. Demonstrates leadership qualities utilizing support personnel where appropriate to perform activities not requiring a licensed Occupational Therapist.

SUPERVISION

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants provide clinical supervision as requested to Rehabilitation Techs.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

  1. Must be able to lift 35 pounds. Safe moving, lifting or transferring of patients is required.
  2. Must be able to stand for extended periods of time.
  3. Must demonstrate appropriate and applicable fine motor skills.
  4. Must demonstrate adequate visual acuity for safety with patient interaction.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants must possess an appropriate Associate of Science degree from an accredited institution.

LICENSURE OR REGISTRY REQUIREMENTS

 Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants must be licensed in the state of NY and must be able to pass a background check.

This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications which may be required of the employee assigned to the position. Depending on the size of the facility the job duties may vary. Receipt of this job description does not imply or create a promise of employment or an employment contract of any kind.

Requirements: