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Occupational Therapy Assistant Jobs in Rutherford, NJ

Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)

Bronx, NY

$29.50 - $39.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Sigma Health Rehab is actively seeking a Full-time Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA/COTA) to work in a Skilled Nursing Facility. COTA Requirements Include: * Graduate of an accredited OTA Program

Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)

Bronx, NY · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Sigma Health Rehab is actively seeking a Full-time Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA/COTA) to work in a Skilled Nursing Facility. COTA Requirements Include: * Graduate of an accredited OTA Program

Occupational Therapy Assistant

Parsippany, NJ · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Balance Life & Work with a New Career Opportunity Now Hiring - Occupational Therapy Assistant - Parsippany Troy Hills, NJ CareOne is Hiring! Full-Time, Part-Time & Per Diem Opportunities Available ...

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Occupational Therapy Assistant information

See Rutherford, NJ salary details

$17

$30

$47

How much do occupational therapy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 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.

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:

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

Grove Park Healthcare Center

East Orange, NJ

$29.75 - $39.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Grove Park Healthcare Center is looking for Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant, COTA to join our incredible team! 

We're not just a workplace; we're a community driven by excellence. We take immense pride in what sets us apart - our exceptional leadership, a warm and friendly work environment, and a reputation that we've worked hard to earn. If you're ready for a rewarding career experience, your journey begins here! 

Shift Hours: 

 8 am to 4 pm

Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant, COTA Benefits: 

  • Competitive wages based on experience  

  • Daily pay option available 

  • Generous paid time off (PTO) package 

  • Medical, Dental and Vision insurance  

  • Supplemental disability and life insurance options available 

  • Flexible Spending Account 

  • 401k available 

  • Career advancement opportunities / tuition reimbursement 

  • Complementary uniform  

  • Friendly work environment 

  • Referral bonus 

Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant, COTA Job Description: 

The Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) supports the Occupational Therapist in implementing resident-specific treatment plans. 

Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant, COTA Responsibilities: 

  • Assist in Assessments: Assist the Occupational Therapist in assessing residents' functional abilities and gathering objective data for Section GG collection during Annual, Quarterly, Falls, and Significant Change assessments. 

  • Treatment Support: Implement intervention plans, including ADL training, based on the guidance of the Occupational Therapist. 

  • Monitoring: Observe residents' performance and report any changes or concerns to the supervising Physical Therapist. 

  • Documentation: Maintain accurate and timely documentation of resident progress and any interventions provided. Comfortable and knowledgeable with Point of Service (POS) care delivery and documentation. Maintain detailed and up-to-date documentation of resident evaluations, treatment plans, daily and progress notes, HMO/Manage care progress updates in EMRs (PCC). 

  • Education: Educate residents, family members, and care staff on safe mobility techniques and exercises for continued progress.

  • Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Collaborate with other rehab staff, including Physical Therapists and Speech-Language Pathologists, to provide comprehensive care. 

Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant, COTA Qualifications: 

  • State licensure as an Occupational Therapy Assistant