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Pre Occupational Therapy Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

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Pre Occupational Therapy information

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$9

$31

$59

How much do pre occupational therapy jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for pre occupational therapy in Utah is $31.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.12 and $37.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is pre occupational therapy?

Pre Occupational Therapy refers to the academic track or set of prerequisite courses that undergraduate students complete to prepare for admission into a graduate Occupational Therapy (OT) program. This track typically includes courses in biology, psychology, anatomy, physiology, and other sciences. Students may also gain shadowing or volunteer experience to strengthen their application. Completing a Pre Occupational Therapy program does not grant a degree in OT, but it helps ensure students meet the requirements for applying to a Master’s or Doctoral program in Occupational Therapy.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pre occupational therapy student, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pre-Occupational Therapy student, you need a solid background in biology, psychology, and anatomy, typically supported by a bachelor's degree or prerequisite coursework. Familiarity with medical terminology, patient documentation systems, and observation hours in clinical settings are often required. Strong interpersonal skills, organizational abilities, and empathy help students connect with patients and manage academic demands. These qualifications and skills ensure readiness for graduate programs and lay a strong foundation for success in occupational therapy practice.

What are some common challenges faced by those working in pre occupational therapy roles, and how can they be managed?

Individuals in pre-occupational therapy roles often encounter challenges such as balancing coursework with hands-on experience, staying updated on admissions requirements, and gaining relevant volunteer or shadowing hours. Managing these challenges involves strong time management, seeking mentorship from current occupational therapists, and actively participating in campus organizations or internships. Building relationships with professionals in the field and consistently reflecting on experiences can help lay a solid foundation for future success in occupational therapy programs.

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

AspectPre Occupational TherapyOccupational Therapist
CredentialsPrerequisite coursework, bachelor's degreeMaster's or Doctorate in Occupational Therapy, licensure
Work EnvironmentUndergraduate settings, preparatory rolesHospitals, clinics, schools, rehabilitation centers
Industry UsagePrepares for graduate programs, entry-level rolesProvides therapy services, patient care

Pre Occupational Therapy students are typically in undergraduate programs or completing prerequisites, focusing on preparing for graduate studies. Occupational Therapists have advanced degrees and provide direct patient care. The roles differ mainly in education level and responsibilities, with Pre Occupational Therapy serving as a stepping stone toward becoming an Occupational Therapist.

What else can I do with a pre occupational therapy degree?

A pre occupational therapy degree provides foundational knowledge useful for related healthcare roles such as physical therapy assistant, rehabilitation aide, or healthcare technician. It also prepares students for graduate programs in occupational therapy, requiring coursework in anatomy, psychology, and biology, and can lead to roles in patient care, health education, or research support.

What to do after pre occupational therapy?

After completing pre-occupational therapy coursework, students typically apply to occupational therapy master's programs, which require prerequisites, a strong GPA, and relevant experience. Gaining volunteer or work experience in healthcare settings can strengthen applications, and preparing for the GRE may also be necessary for some programs.

What are popular job titles related to Pre Occupational Therapy jobs in Utah?

For Pre Occupational Therapy jobs in Utah, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Pre Occupational Therapy job openings in Utah as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,583 per year, or $31.5 per hour.

Occupational Therapy Assistant - Correctional Health Services

Utah Division of Human Resource Management

Salt Lake City, UT

$27.25 - $36.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

*This position is open until filled and may close at any time*

Correctional Health Services is hiring for an Occupational Therapy Assistant.  This is a paraprofessional, working level job supervised by professional Occupational Therapy staff. Incumbents in this job are assigned client assessments and treatment plans and administer appropriate treatment to clients. Incumbents may conduct individual sessions, therapy groups, and contribute to OT program administration. 

Job Duties

  • Must possess certification by the American Occupational Therapy Licensure from the Utah Occupational Therapy License Board.
  • Evaluates patients' needs and administers therapy to preserve and improve abilities for independent function, such as, behavioral management skills, social skills, distress tolerance, medication adherence, sensory self-regulation and activities of daily living.
  • Coordinates program activities, services, and/or program implementation with private providers, other governmental entities, program users, etc.
  • Performs occupational assessments of patients and/or residents; refers patients requiring further evaluation or treatment to a registered nurse, nurse practitioner,therapist, physician, psychiatrists or other health care professional.
  • Develops and implements treatment plans to help clients mobilize inner capacities and resources to improve social functioning.
  • Documents client/patient progress and revises treatment plans as required; completes administrative paperwork.

 

Supplemental Information

  • An offer of employment will be contingent on the applicant successfully passing a DHHS background check, pre-employment drug testing, and a Utah Department of Corrections (UDC) background screening.
  • Risks which require the use of special safety precautions and/or equipment, e.g., working around operating machines, working with contagious diseases or hazardous chemicals, etc.
  • Work requires physical exertion. May require the ability to stand; walk over rough surfaces; bend, crouch, stoop, stretch, reach, lift moderately heavy items (up to 50 lbs.) in a recurring manner and/or for long periods of time.