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$71K

$122.6K

$344K

How much do occupational therapy researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for occupational therapy researcher in the United States is $122,610.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,500.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an occupational therapy researcher?

Occupational Therapy Researchers are professionals who study the methods, outcomes, and effectiveness of occupational therapy interventions. They design and conduct research projects to advance knowledge in the field and improve patient care. These researchers often work in academic, clinical, or research institutions, collaborating with therapists and other healthcare professionals. Their work helps to inform evidence-based practice and shape policy and education in occupational therapy.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an occupational therapy researcher?

To thrive as an Occupational Therapy Researcher, you need a strong background in occupational therapy, research methodology, and data analysis, often supported by an advanced degree such as a master's or PhD in occupational therapy or a related field. Familiarity with statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R), academic databases, and research ethics certifications is typically required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective written and verbal communication are vital soft skills for success in this position. These skills ensure the rigor, reliability, and impact of research that can advance occupational therapy practice and improve patient outcomes.

What challenges do occupational therapy researchers face when conducting clinical studies?

Occupational Therapy Researchers often encounter challenges such as recruiting a diverse and representative participant pool, adhering to strict ethical guidelines, and securing sufficient funding for their studies. They must also balance collaboration with clinicians and other researchers to ensure studies are both scientifically rigorous and clinically relevant. Additionally, translating research findings into practical interventions that can be implemented in real-world settings requires strong communication and project management skills.

What is the difference between Occupational Therapy Researcher vs Occupational Therapist?

AspectOccupational Therapy ResearcherOccupational Therapist
CredentialsMaster's or Doctoral degree in occupational therapy or related field; research certificationsMaster's or Doctoral degree in occupational therapy; state licensure
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, universities, healthcare research centersHospitals, clinics, outpatient facilities, community health settings
Primary FocusConducting research to advance occupational therapy knowledgeProviding direct patient care to improve daily functioning
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic, research, healthcare organizationsHospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers

Occupational Therapy Researchers focus on conducting studies to develop and improve occupational therapy practices, often working in academic or research settings. In contrast, Occupational Therapists provide hands-on therapy to patients in clinical environments. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in daily responsibilities and work settings.

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Occupational Therapy Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Occupational Therapy Researcher job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,610 per year, or $58.9 per hour.

Temporary Part-time Faculty of Pediatrics, Occupational Therapy

University of New Mexico

Albuquerque, NM

$27.75 - $36.75/hr

Part-time, Temporary

Re-posted 21 days ago

University Of New Mexico rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

130th of 627 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The UNM Occupational Therapy Graduate Program at the University ofNew Mexico anticipates hiring temporary part time adjunct faculty to teachcourses or problem based learning in the Summer 2026, Fall 2026, Spring 2027.Anticipated openings potentially include the following subject areas amongothers:

  • Problem based learning in orthopedic, neurological or pediatric occupational therapy
  • Leadership and advocacy in occupational therapy
  • Community occupational therapy
  • Neurological and orthopedics occupational therapy
  • Evidence based practice
  • Psychosocial occupational therapy
  • Research in occupational therapy
  • Positions are contingent upon each semester as determined bycurrent course offerings. 

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