Occupational Physical Therapy Assistant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s health-conscious society, the role of Occupational Physical Therapy Assistants is becoming increasingly important.

As the focus on wellbeing and rehabilitation continues to grow, the demand for skilled professionals who can support, enhance, and safeguard our occupational health is escalating.

So, what exactly is expected from an Occupational Physical Therapy Assistant?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager looking for the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the ins and outs of occupational physical therapy,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Occupational Physical Therapy Assistant job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve right in.

Occupational Physical Therapy Assistant Duties and Responsibilities

Occupational Physical Therapy Assistants (OPTA) play a significant role in healthcare by helping patients regain their physical capabilities and independence after injury or illness.

They assist Occupational Physical Therapists in implementing therapeutic plans and monitoring progress.

The responsibilities and duties of an Occupational Physical Therapy Assistant include:

• Assisting in the development and implementation of treatment plans based on patient needs and goals
• Helping patients perform therapeutic activities, such as stretches and other exercises
• Observing patients before, during, and after therapy, noting their status and reporting to the occupational therapist
• Teaching patients how to use and care for their assistive devices and equipment
• Encouraging patients and providing emotional support to help them reach their goals
• Carrying out administrative tasks such as maintaining patient records, billing, and scheduling appointments
• Assisting in the selection and setup of special equipment and treatment areas
• Adhering to professional standards and regulations while maintaining patient confidentiality

 

Occupational Physical Therapy Assistant Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Occupational Physical Therapy Assistant to join our healthcare team.

The responsibilities of the Occupational Physical Therapy Assistant include helping patients recover and improve the skills needed for daily living and working under the direction and supervision of Occupational Therapists.

Our ideal candidate is compassionate, patient-oriented and has experience working with patients of varying ages and conditions.

Ultimately, the role of the Occupational Physical Therapy Assistant is to effectively provide therapy treatments to patients in accordance with the prescribed treatment plan.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist Occupational Therapists in providing occupational therapy treatments and procedures.
• Help patients with rehabilitative activities and exercises outlined in a treatment plan developed in conjunction with an Occupational Therapist.
• Record patients’ progress, report to Occupational Therapists and respond to the patient’s needs.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, sterilize equipment after treatment.
• Support patients and their families to understand conditions and treatments.
• Assist with administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments and maintaining patient records.

 

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree or higher in Occupational Therapy.
• State license to practice as an Occupational Therapy Assistant.
• Proven experience as an Occupational Therapy Assistant.
• Understanding of Occupational Therapy principles, methods, and procedures.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to handle physical workload.
• Ability to maintain a patient and positive attitude.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Occupational Physical Therapy Assistant
• Work Environment: This role primarily operates in a medical or healthcare facility with regular office hours, but timing may vary depending on patients’ needs.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Occupational Therapist or Therapy Services Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $65,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Occupational Physical Therapy Assistant Do?

Occupational Physical Therapy Assistants, often abbreviated as OPTA, work closely with Occupational Therapists to assist patients who are recuperating from physical or mental illness that affects their ability to perform daily activities.

Their role involves helping implement therapeutic plans designed by Occupational Therapists.

This can include teaching patients how to use adaptive equipment, such as wheelchairs, orthotic devices, and aids for eating and dressing.

They also assist with exercises designed to improve patients’ fine and gross motor skills, strength, dexterity, and coordination.

This can involve anything from walking and balance training to hand-eye coordination activities.

Occupational Physical Therapy Assistants also monitor patients’ progress and report back to the Occupational Therapist, assisting with the adjustment of treatment plans as needed.

In addition to their hands-on work with patients, Occupational Physical Therapy Assistants often handle administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, billing, and maintaining patient records.

They may work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, schools, and patients’ homes.

Their ultimate goal is to help patients regain independence and improve their quality of life.

 

Occupational Physical Therapy Assistant Qualifications and Skills

An Occupational Physical Therapy Assistant should have the skills and qualifications that align with the job role, such as:

• Proficient knowledge of therapeutic treatments and anatomy to assist patients with various physical conditions and disabilities.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively collaborate with Occupational Therapists and interact with patients and their families, understanding their needs and explaining treatment plans.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions from Occupational Therapists and carry out treatment plans effectively.
• Physical stamina and strength to assist patients with exercises and movements, often requiring to lift or move them.
• Patience and sensitivity to work with patients who may be in distress or facing difficulties with their physical limitations.
• Organizational skills to manage multiple patients’ treatment plans, appointments, and progress records.
• Problem-solving skills to adapt treatment plans as necessary based on patient progress and response.
• A valid license or certification to practice as a Physical Therapy Assistant, depending on the requirements of the state.

 

Occupational Physical Therapy Assistant Experience Requirements

Entry-level Occupational Physical Therapy Assistants are typically required to have completed a two-year associate’s degree program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE).

This program includes a combination of classroom studies and fieldwork, providing hands-on experience in various settings such as hospitals, schools, or outpatient clinics.

New graduates from these programs may have limited professional experience but are usually considered adequately trained for entry-level positions due to the extensive practical exposure gained during their studies.

Occupational Physical Therapy Assistants with 1-2 years of professional experience have usually refined their clinical skills, gained experience with a variety of patient populations, and have a broader understanding of occupational therapy treatments and procedures.

They may work in specialized settings such as pediatric, geriatric, or rehabilitation facilities.

Those with more than 3 years of experience usually have developed strong patient care and communication skills and have a comprehensive understanding of occupational therapy protocols and procedures.

They may also have experience supervising or training less experienced therapy assistants or interns.

Occupational Physical Therapy Assistants with more than 5 years of experience often have advanced technical skills and may have some administrative or managerial experience.

They could be suitable for leadership roles or may specialize in a specific area of occupational therapy, such as hand therapy or neuro-rehabilitation.

 

Occupational Physical Therapy Assistant Education and Training Requirements

Occupational Physical Therapy Assistants are typically required to hold an associate’s degree from an accredited occupational therapy assistant program.

These programs provide a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.

Students learn about human anatomy, medical terminology, geriatrics, pediatrics, mental health, and physical rehabilitation.

They also complete supervised fieldwork to gain practical experience.

After completing the educational requirements, Occupational Physical Therapy Assistants must pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam to become a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA).

Most states require Occupational Physical Therapy Assistants to be licensed.

Licensing requirements vary by state but generally require passing the NBCOT exam and may require additional state-specific exams.

Regular continuing education is typically required to maintain licensure.

Although not required, some Occupational Physical Therapy Assistants may choose to pursue further education or specialization in areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or physical rehabilitation.

This may involve additional coursework, training, or certification.

Such advanced training and specialization may enhance job prospects and indicate a commitment to ongoing learning and professional development.

 

Occupational Physical Therapy Assistant Salary Expectations

An Occupational Physical Therapy Assistant can expect to earn an average salary of $59,310 (USD) per year.

This salary can vary based on factors such as experience, level of education, the employing healthcare facility, and the geographical location.

 

Occupational Physical Therapy Assistant Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Occupational Physical Therapy Assistant need?

Occupational Physical Therapy Assistants should have strong communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with patients and other healthcare professionals.

They need a good understanding of human anatomy and physical conditions to assist in devising and implementing therapeutic plans.

They must also have patience, empathy, and the ability to motivate patients to adhere to their treatment plans.

 

What are the educational requirements for an Occupational Physical Therapy Assistant?

An Occupational Physical Therapy Assistant typically requires an associate degree from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program.

This program generally lasts about two years.

After completing the educational requirements, they must also pass a national certification examination to become a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA).

 

What should you look for in an Occupational Physical Therapy Assistant resume?

An ideal resume for an Occupational Physical Therapy Assistant should highlight relevant education, certification, and experience in the field of occupational therapy.

Look for any specializations or additional training in specific areas of therapy, such as pediatrics or geriatrics.

Clinical experience, whether through internships or previous roles, is also crucial.

 

What qualities make a good Occupational Physical Therapy Assistant?

A good Occupational Physical Therapy Assistant should be compassionate, as they often work with individuals facing challenging physical conditions.

They should also be detail-oriented and observant to track patients’ progress and adjust treatment plans as needed.

Effective communication skills are also essential to explain treatment plans to patients and their families and to work collaboratively with occupational therapists and other healthcare professionals.

 

What are the typical duties of an Occupational Physical Therapy Assistant?

Occupational Physical Therapy Assistants work under the direction of Occupational Therapists.

Their duties often include helping patients with therapeutic activities, teaching patients how to use special equipment, recording patients’ progress, and performing administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments and maintaining patient records.

They may also assist in developing treatment plans and provide feedback to the Occupational Therapist about the patient’s progress.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the intricacies of what it truly means to be an Occupational Physical Therapy Assistant.

And guess what?

It’s not just about assisting with therapy exercises.

It’s about molding the future of healthcare, one patient at a time.

With our go-to Occupational Physical Therapy Assistant job description template and real-world examples, you’re well equipped to make a career leap.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for creating precision-crafted job listings or for perfecting your resume to a tee.

Remember:

Every patient you assist contributes to the bigger picture.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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