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Occupational Therapy Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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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 Aug 9, 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 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 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 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 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.
More about Occupational Therapy Researcher jobs
What cities are hiring for Occupational Therapy Researcher jobs? Cities with the most Occupational Therapy Researcher job openings:
What states have the most Occupational Therapy Researcher jobs? States with the most job openings for Occupational Therapy Researcher jobs include:
Infographic showing various Occupational Therapy Researcher job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 38% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $122,610 per year, or $58.9 per hour.

Occupational Therapist - Pediatrics

RUSH Kids Pediatric Therapy

Crystal Lake, IL โ€ข On-site

$32 - $38/hr

Other

Re-posted 9 hours ago


Job description

Overview

Position: Part Time Occupational Therapist - Pediatrics

Location: Crystal Lake, IL

Schedule: Part Time

Compensation: $32.00-$38.00 per hour

RUSH Kids Pediatric Therapy is seeking a Part Time pediatric occupational therapist (OTR) to join our fun, collaborative, multi-disciplinary team!

We evaluate and treat a variety of pediatric patients with diagnoses ranging from sensory processing, emotional regulation, developmental delay, cerebral palsy, genetic disorders, autism spectrum disorders, feeding disorders, visual motor deficits and more.

You will play an integral role in collaborating with other professionals to help our pediatric patients reach their goals and learn new skills. Come join us and make a positive difference in the life of a child!  

We value mentorship and a collaborative approach to care. New graduates are welcome to apply!

Responsibilities
  • High Standard of Care: Understand appropriate state Practice Act and adhere to the laws that govern how OTs may practice and whom they may supervise.
  • Collaborative Approach: Develop objective patient goals and establish the type, frequency and duration of occupational therapy in collaboration with the referring physician.
  • Leadership: Supervise and delegate occupational therapy care for each patient within the guidelines of state rules and federal regulations.
  • Personalized Treatment: Provide comprehensive and individualized treatment programs and complete patient care responsibilities and documentation requirements.
  • Innovative Opportunities: Participate in the design and implementation of new programs or procedures with the approval of the manager and referring physicians per HIPPA guidelines.
  • Best Practices: 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 school for occupational therapy
  • State occupational therapist license (or eligibility)
  • CPR certification
  • Valid state driverโ€™s license
Additional Data

Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans