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Occupational Therapy Aide
HealthcareYou're the support staff in an OT clinic — setting up activities, cleaning equipment, transporting patients, and doing the behind-the-scenes work that keeps therapy sessions running smoothly. No license required, which makes this the easiest way into the occupational therapy field. The work is physical, the pay is modest, and you'll learn more about adaptive equipment than you ever expected.
Salary Range
Low
$26k
Median
$34k
High
$42k
10-Year Growth
5%
US Workers
8K
Education
High school diploma — on-the-job training provided
Environment
indoor
Tools & Technical Skills
- ▸Therapy equipment setup & maintenance
- ▸Patient transport & transfer
- ▸Infection control procedures
- ▸Supply inventory management
- ▸Basic clerical & scheduling skills
- ▸Activity material preparation
People & Mindset Skills
- ▸Reliability
- ▸Physical stamina
- ▸Compassion
- ▸Teamwork
- ▸Communication
- ▸Attention to detail
What you'll actually do
- 01Set up therapy areas with adaptive equipment, splints, and activity materials
- 02Transport patients to and from therapy sessions
- 03Clean and organize treatment rooms between patients
- 04Prepare activity supplies — craft materials, exercise tools, sensory items
- 05Maintain inventory of therapy supplies and alert the OT when stock is low
- 06Observe OT sessions — the best on-the-job education you'll get
- 07Handle clerical tasks like scheduling, filing, and answering phones
Career Path
Where this role sits in the bigger picture — and where it can take you.
Occupational Therapy Aide
YOU ARE HEREEntry·0–1 yr·On-the-job training
$28k–$38k
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
Entry·1–3 yrs·Associate's in OTA + certification
$45k–$65k
Occupational Therapist
Mid-Career·3–7 yrs·Master's in OT + state license
$65k–$93k
Senior OT / Clinical Specialist
Senior·7–12 yrs·Specialty certification (hand therapy, pediatrics)
$90k–$115k
OT Program Director / Practice Owner
Leadership·12+ yrs·Leadership + business management
$110k–$145k
Related Shifts
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