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Occupational Therapy Researcher information

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$71K

$122.6K

$344K

How much do occupational therapy researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 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.

How to make 200k as an OT?

Occupational therapists can reach a $200,000 salary by gaining extensive experience, specializing in high-demand areas such as hand therapy or neurorehabilitation, and working in settings like outpatient clinics or hospitals. Additional certifications, advanced degrees, and leadership roles can also contribute to higher earning potential.

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

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.

Can occupational therapists do research?

Yes, occupational therapists often engage in research to develop and evaluate interventions, improve patient outcomes, and advance the field. They may work in academic, clinical, or community settings, often requiring research skills, knowledge of study design, and familiarity with data analysis tools. Research is a common component of advanced practice and academic roles within occupational therapy.

What are Occupational Therapy Researchers?

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.

Is the OT field oversaturated?

The occupational therapy field generally has steady demand due to an aging population and increased awareness of rehabilitation needs. While some regions may experience higher competition, job opportunities remain available for qualified occupational therapists with relevant certifications and skills in healthcare settings, schools, and community programs.

How much do OT researchers make?

Occupational therapy researchers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced degrees and research experience can lead to higher compensation, especially in academic or healthcare settings.

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.

What are some typical challenges faced by Occupational Therapy Researchers 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.
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What cities are hiring for Occupational Therapy Researcher jobs? Cities with the most Occupational Therapy Researcher job openings:
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Occupational Therapy Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Occupational Therapy Researcher job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 29% Full Time, 57% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $122,610 per year, or $58.9 per hour.
Occupational Therapist - Hand Therapy

Occupational Therapist - Hand Therapy

Select Physical Therapy

Port Charlotte, FL • On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Select Physical Therapy rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

640th of 886 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Overview
Position: Occupational Therapist - Hand Therapist
Location: Port Charlotte, FL
Schedule: Monday-Friday,
Compensation: Starting at $80,000+/yr. Starting salary based on experience
Incentives: $20,000 sign-on bonus + $350/month student loan repayment
Select Physical Therapy is hiring a full-time Occupational Therapist - Hand Therapist for our outpatient orthopedic center in Punta Gorda, FL. We treat a wide range of upper extremity conditions including tendon injuries, sprains, strains, and post-op fractures. Splinting experience is preferred. Occupational Therapist with Level 2 and Occupational Therapist with a minimum of 1 yr recent hand therapy experience required.
You'll work in a well-equipped center alongside top hand surgeons, using evidence-based practices and individualized care plans. We offer mentorship toward CHT certification and are part of a thriving national Hand Therapy program.
Apply today to join a growing team committed to clinical excellence in hand therapy!
Responsibilities
  • Responsible for the evaluation, plan of care, treatment, re-evaluation, discharge, and appropriate communications of high quality hand therapy services to patients and customers.
  • Develop treatment plans, supervise assistants and aides, contribute to case management, and provide quality patient care.
  • Maintain positive level of interaction with facilities and clients. Enhance and expand client relations with facilities and their staff.
  • Stay current and up to date with Occupational Therapy research and employ Evidence Based Practice (RCB, clinician expertise, patient perception).

Qualifications
  • Graduate of an accredited Occupational Therapy program
  • Active national registration and state licensure (required at start)
  • Minimum 1 yr current hand therapy experience. In leiu of experience, OT with Hand Rotation Level 2
  • CPR certification
  • Valid state driver's license

Additional Data
Recharge & Refresh: Generous PTO to maintain a healthy work-life balance
Your Health Matters: Comprehensive medical/Rx, vision and dental plan
Invest in Your Future: Company-matching 401(k) retirement plans, as well as Life and Disability protection

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About Select Physical Therapy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Select Physical Therapy is a leading physical therapy service provider in the United States, based in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania. The organization operates within the healthcare industry, specializing in physical therapy, athletic training services, sports medicine, and work health services. As an integral part of the broader health care community, Select Physical Therapy places a strong emphasis on helping patients overcome injuries, manage chronic conditions, recover after surgeries, and maintain an overall healthy lifestyle. Ever since its establishment, the company has been delivering effective and individualized in-person and tele-rehab services to meet each patient's unique needs.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

King of Prussia, PA, US

Year founded

1996

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