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Student Occupational Therapy Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rocketship Public Schools

$36.50 - $46/hr

We believe that every student deserves the right to dream, to discover, and to develop their unique ... The Occupational Therapy Assistant will work across multiple (2-3) Rocketship school sites under ...

SAU #13

Occupational Therapist

Tamworth, NH

$39 - $51.25/hr

Supervises Occupational Therapy Assistants as needed. * Plans, coordinates, and conducts continuing education for school staff, parents, and students. * Continues to acquire professional knowledge ...

Pikes Peak BOCES

Occupational Therapist

Colorado Springs, CO

$39.75 - $52.25/hr

... therapy assistant assuming responsibility for the students served by assistant. 10. Adheres to federal and state legislation, regulation, and policies that affect occupational therapy practice. 11.

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Student Occupational Therapy Assistant information

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$17

$32

$46

How much do student occupational therapy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for student occupational therapy assistant in the United States is $32.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.40 and $36.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Where do OTAs get paid the most?

Student Occupational Therapy Assistants typically earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare services. Salaries can also vary based on the setting, such as hospitals or outpatient clinics, and the level of experience or certifications held.

Can I be an OT assistant without a degree?

To become a student occupational therapy assistant, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, but most states and employers prefer candidates who have completed a formal OTA program or obtained relevant certification. While a degree is generally necessary for certification and employment, some entry-level roles may accept on-the-job training or related experience, but these are less common. Certification from the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) is often required to work as an OTA.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Student Occupational Therapy Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Student Occupational Therapy Assistant, you need foundational knowledge of human anatomy, therapeutic techniques, and an associate degree from an accredited OTA program. Familiarity with documentation software and adaptive equipment is typically required, along with pursuing certification such as the NBCOT COTA exam. Strong interpersonal communication, empathy, and teamwork skills help in supporting patients and collaborating with licensed occupational therapists. These competencies ensure effective patient care, accurate record-keeping, and successful integration into clinical environments.

How does a Student Occupational Therapy Assistant typically collaborate with supervising occupational therapists and other healthcare professionals during clinical placements?

During clinical placements, Student Occupational Therapy Assistants work closely with supervising occupational therapists to develop and implement treatment plans for clients. They often assist in conducting therapeutic activities, documenting patient progress, and adjusting interventions based on feedback. Collaboration with other healthcare professionals, such as physical therapists, nurses, and speech-language pathologists, is common to ensure a holistic approach to patient care. These experiences help students build teamwork and communication skills essential for future practice.

What is the difference between Student Occupational Therapy Assistant vs Occupational Therapy Assistant?

AspectStudent Occupational Therapy AssistantOccupational Therapy Assistant
CredentialsEnrolled in an accredited OTA program, typically not certifiedCertified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) with licensure or registration
Work EnvironmentSupervised clinical or fieldwork settings, educational placementsFull-time employment in clinics, hospitals, or schools
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, internship sitesHealthcare facilities, rehabilitation centers
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding training requirements, entry-level rolesJob responsibilities, certification, and career progression

The main difference is that a Student Occupational Therapy Assistant is still in training and not yet certified, while an Occupational Therapy Assistant is a licensed professional actively working in healthcare settings. Students gain practical experience during their education, whereas certified OTAs provide direct patient care.

Can an OTA work in a school?

Yes, a Student Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) can work in a school setting, supporting students with developmental or physical challenges under the supervision of an occupational therapist. OTAs in schools often assist with therapy activities, adapt environments, and help implement treatment plans, requiring knowledge of educational and therapeutic tools. Certification and state-specific regulations may apply for employment in educational environments.

Do OTAs or PTAs get paid more?

Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs) and Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs) typically have similar salary ranges, with variations depending on location, experience, and work setting. Generally, PTAs tend to earn slightly higher wages than OTAs, but differences are often minimal and influenced by regional demand and certifications. Both roles require an associate degree and licensure, and salaries are affected by factors such as specialization and work environment.

What are Student Occupational Therapy Assistants?

Student Occupational Therapy Assistants are individuals who are enrolled in an accredited occupational therapy assistant (OTA) program and are in the process of completing their education and clinical training. They work under the supervision of licensed occupational therapists or certified occupational therapy assistants during their fieldwork experiences. Their primary role is to learn how to assist patients in developing or recovering skills needed for daily living and working, using therapeutic activities and exercises. Student OTAs gain hands-on experience in various healthcare settings, preparing them for certification and eventual employment as OTAs.
More about Student Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Student Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Student Occupational Therapy Assistant job openings:
What states have the most Student Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Student Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Student Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Student Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs are:
Student Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs near you

Occupational Therapy Assistant/License (COTA)

Pekin Public Schools District 108

Pekin, IL

$26.25 - $35/hr

Other

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

PEKIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS DISTRICT 108 ANNOUNCES THE FOLLOWING VACANCY FOR THE 2026-2027 SCHOOL YEAR:

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant/License (COTA)

Qualifications:

Certification:

  • Certification as an Occupational Therapy Assistant having completed an approved Occupational Therapy Assistant program of at least two years in length, leading to an Associate's Degree or its equivalent
  • Valid State of Illinois license as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
  • Individual is physically capable of performing the essential duties of the job

Vision:
The COTA/L applies professional understandings of child motor development and pathology, service delivery options, and special education law and regulations.  The COTA/L carries case management responsibility for all students identified as eligible for occupational therapy special education services and carries out occupational therapy procedures and related duties.  The COTA/L consults with administrators, teachers, and parents concerning at-risk and IEP-eligible students.

Job Goals:

  • Assist in the practice of occupational therapy under the supervision of a registered occupational therapist to implement programming established by the Registered Occupational Therapist
  • The practice of occupational therapy may include training in activities of daily living, the use of therapeutic activities including task oriented activities to enhance functional performance, and guidance in the selection and use of adaptive equipment (Recommended Practices for Occupational and Physical Therapy Services in Illinois Schools, ISBE 2003)
  • Improve student occupational therapy outcomes to enable students to access and benefit from the school environment

Responsibilities:

  • Administration of occupational therapy procedures that is commensurate with education and training under the direction and supervision of the registered occupational therapist.  These services shall not include interpretation of referrals, evaluation, interpretation of data pertinent to said evaluation, or the planning or major modification of student's occupational therapy programs.  These services may include:
    • Administration of active and passive therapeutic exercises and positioning
    • Providing and/or fabricating splinting/bracing and adapted equipment as needed by the students to enhance their educational process
    • Observe students in the educational setting and report findings to the registered occupational therapist and educational staff, requesting changes in environment or giving suggestions for modifications
    • Implement treatment sessions through direct service, monitoring, or consultation to educational staff and/or parents
    • Assist the registered occupational therapist in an evaluation when needed
  • Document involvement with students through departmental paperwork
  • Participate in full and individual conferences, IEP meetings and team meetings regarding students followed by the C.O.T.A.
  • Meet with the registered occupational therapist regarding new referrals, possible evaluations, planning and implementing therapy plans, and reviewing progress of students served
  • Consult with educational staff and parents regarding therapy needs
  • Monitor adaptive equipment needs and maintenance
  • Maintain and enhance professional competency by participating in informal and formal continuing education
  • Formulate and write IEP goals and objectives and other reports under the supervision of the registered occupational therapist
  • Complete IEP paperwork utilizing H.E.L.P. or other software
  • Effectively communicate, both in written and verbal form, with educational staff, students, parents, and the medical community
  • Refer students to motor clinic, gathering all information, and schedule with parents and staff
  • Be physically capable of lifting required in student transfers and treatment sessions while applying principles of safety to student and self
  • Serve as a potential person to perform physical restraint to ensure student and staff safety
  • Maintain the same high level of ethical behavior and confidentiality of student information as expected of fully licensed teachers
  • Other appropriate duties as assigned

Terms of employment:
7.5 hrs. - 180 Day Bargaining Unit Position 
Benefits Commensurate With Contract

Application procedure:
District 108 must have:

A completed online application: http://www.generalasp.com/Pekin/onlineapp/

The following documentation must be on file to complete the application process:

  • Letter of interest
  • Copy of License
  • Copy of transcript(s)
  • Three (3) signed letters of recommendation

Documentation should be uploaded with your online application.
If you are unable to upload your documentation, you may fax or mail as listed below:

Fax: 309-477-4701

Mailing address:
Director of Human Resources
Attention: Application Process
501 Washington Street
Pekin, IL  61554



For direct questions, please contact:
Julie Draher @ 309-477-4740 or by email @ julie.draher@pekin108.org

PLEASE DO NOT SEND APPLICATION MATERIALS TO INDIVIDUAL SCHOOLS

District 108 is an equal opportunity employer
Position will be filled as soon as suitable applicant is found



Apply