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How much does a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant make?

The average salary for a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant is $71,134 per year in the US.

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants play an essential role in helping patients regain their independence and quality of life. Their work involves assisting occupational therapists in providing care, treatment, and support to patients of all ages. The average yearly salary for a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant is about $71,134. This salary can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and type of employer.

Here are some typical salaries for different experience levels:

  • Entry-level positions: $50,000 to $55,909
  • Early career: $55,909 to $61,818
  • Mid-career: $61,818 to $67,727
  • Experienced: $67,727 to $73,636
  • Late career: $73,636 to $79,545
  • Expert: $79,545 to $85,455
  • Senior level: $85,455 to $91,364
  • Director level: $91,364 to $97,273
  • Chief level: $97,273 to $103,182
  • Executive level: $103,182 to $109,091
  • Top expert level: $109,091 to $115,000
Job seekers can expect to see growth in their earnings as they gain more experience and move up in their careers. This makes a career in occupational therapy assisting a rewarding and financially stable choice.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant?

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants can find top-paying job opportunities in several California cities. Salinas, CA, offers the highest average salary, making it an excellent choice for those in the field. Other cities like San Diego, San Jose, and San Francisco also provide competitive wages, offering great potential for growth.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs, highlighting Salinas, CA with the highest at $92,074 and Visalia, CA with the lowest at $81,590.
  1. Salinas, CA
    Average Salary: $92,074
    In Salinas, job seekers find many options to work in healthcare. Salinas offers a mix of local clinics and rehabilitation centers where one can make a difference. Hospitals like Natividad Medical Center provide excellent opportunities.
    Find Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in Salinas, CA


  2. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $90,509
    San Diego has a growing demand for healthcare professionals. One can find job opportunities at renowned facilities like Scripps Health. The city's vibrant community and excellent weather make it a great place to work.
    Find Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in San Diego, CA


  3. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $90,300
    San Jose offers many openings in both private practices and large healthcare networks. With companies like Kaiser Permanente, professionals can find fulfilling roles. The tech-savvy city provides a dynamic environment.
    Find Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in San Jose, CA


  4. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $89,513
    San Francisco has a rich healthcare sector with many job opportunities. Working at institutions like UCSF Health can lead to a rewarding career. The city's diverse population adds unique challenges and rewards.
    Find Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in San Francisco, CA


  5. Stockton, CA
    Average Salary: $88,149
    Stockton offers a supportive community with many healthcare facilities. Job seekers can find positions at places like St. Joseph's Medical Center. The city's lower cost of living makes it an attractive option.
    Find Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in Stockton, CA


  6. Vallejo, CA
    Average Salary: $85,471
    Vallejo provides a range of job opportunities in healthcare. Professionals can work at institutions like Kaiser Permanente. The city's proximity to San Francisco offers additional career options.
    Find Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in Vallejo, CA


  7. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $85,167
    Los Angeles has a bustling healthcare sector with numerous job openings. Major employers include Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. The city's diverse population and entertainment options make it lively.
    Find Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  8. Modesto, CA
    Average Salary: $84,456
    Modesto offers a growing need for healthcare workers. Job seekers can find roles at facilities like Memorial Medical Center. The city's community-focused environment provides a warm atmosphere.
    Find Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in Modesto, CA


  9. Sacramento, CA
    Average Salary: $83,853
    Sacramento has many opportunities for healthcare professionals. Working at places like UC Davis Medical Center can be very fulfilling. The city's central location makes it easy to travel to other parts of the state.
    Find Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in Sacramento, CA


  10. Visalia, CA
    Average Salary: $81,590
    Visalia offers a variety of job openings in healthcare. Professionals can work at Kaweah Delta Medical Center. The city's friendly community and lower cost of living make it an appealing place to live and work.
    Find Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in Visalia, CA

What are the best companies a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant can work for?

Looking for a top-paying job as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant? Consider roles with Achieve Beyond Pediatric Therapy and Autism Services, Arizona Autism, and Advanced Home Health & Hospice, an Excelin Company. These companies offer some of the highest salaries, making them attractive options for professionals in this field. Companies like Nurse Next Door Home Care Services, PROFESSIONAL POST ACUTE CENTER, and CVHCare also provide competitive pay for Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants. These employers recognize the value of skilled therapy assistants and reflect that in their compensation packages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs, highlighting Achieve Beyond Pediatric Therapy and Autism Services with the highest at $126,600 and FREMONT HEALTHCARE CENTER with the lowest at $94,640.
  1. Achieve Beyond Pediatric Therapy and Autism Services
    Average Salary: $126,600
    Achieve Beyond Pediatric Therapy and Autism Services offers rewarding roles for Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants. They operate in several locations, focusing on delivering exceptional care. You will work in various settings, helping children and families.


  2. Arizona Autism
    Average Salary: $120,909
    Arizona Autism specializes in therapy and autism care. This company provides a range of opportunities for Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants. They work in different cities, offering diverse experiences and growth opportunities.


  3. Advanced Home Health & Hospice, an Excelin Company
    Average Salary: $115,000
    Advanced Home Health & Hospice, part of Excelin, offers dynamic positions for Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants. They operate in multiple regions, focusing on in-home care. You'll support patients and their families with professional care.


  4. Nurse Next Door Home Care Services
    Average Salary: $103,472
    Nurse Next Door Home Care Services provides a supportive environment for Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants. They serve various locations, offering flexible home care options. You will assist patients in their homes, making a real difference.


  5. PROFESSIONAL POST ACUTE CENTER
    Average Salary: $102,333
    PROFESSIONAL POST ACUTE CENTER offers diverse roles for Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants. They operate in several areas, focusing on post-acute care. You will work in a team to help patients recover and improve their quality of life.


  6. CVHCare
    Average Salary: $100,944
    CVHCare provides excellent opportunities for Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants. They serve multiple locations, offering comprehensive care. You will work in various settings, supporting patients in their recovery and rehabilitation.


  7. Powerback Rehabilitation
    Average Salary: $100,888
    Powerback Rehabilitation is known for its supportive work environment. They operate in several regions, offering many opportunities for growth. You will assist patients in their recovery journey with professional care.


  8. Absolute Rehabilitation, Inc
    Average Salary: $95,570
    Absolute Rehabilitation, Inc offers rewarding positions for Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants. They work in various locations, providing excellent care. You will support patients in their rehabilitation process with skilled assistance.


  9. Ascend Rehab Inc
    Average Salary: $95,020
    Ascend Rehab Inc offers great opportunities for Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants. They serve multiple areas, focusing on patient rehabilitation. You will work in a supportive environment, helping patients achieve their goals.


  10. FREMONT HEALTHCARE CENTER
    Average Salary: $94,640
    FREMONT HEALTHCARE CENTER provides rewarding roles for Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants. They operate in various locations, offering comprehensive care. You will assist patients in their recovery and rehabilitation, making a positive impact.

How to earn more as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant?

Becoming a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) offers a fulfilling career path. It also provides the opportunity to earn a good income. There are several strategies to increase earnings. These methods can help COTAs advance in their profession. A higher salary often comes from gaining experience and additional qualifications.

One key factor is gaining more experience. Experience can lead to higher paying positions. Specialized areas such as pediatrics or geriatrics often offer higher salaries. Another factor is pursuing advanced certifications. These certifications can enhance skills and open up higher-paying job opportunities. Continuing education is also important. Staying updated with the latest practices can make a COTA more competitive. Networking with peers and attending professional events can lead to job openings that pay more. Lastly, negotiating salary and benefits wisely can result in higher earnings.

Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a COTA:

  1. Gain more experience in specialized areas
  2. Pursue advanced certifications
  3. Continue education and training
  4. Network with professionals
  5. Negotiate salary and benefits

Currently 2,461 Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant in the US?

Learn what a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant today.
Position
Overview
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
2,461 Job Openings