Rehabilitation Center Occupational Therapy Assistant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the ever-evolving field of healthcare, the role of Rehabilitation Center Occupational Therapy Assistants has become increasingly critical.

As we advance in our understanding of rehabilitative care, the demand for skilled, compassionate professionals who can enhance and restore patients’ functional abilities continues to grow.

But what does it really take to be a Rehabilitation Center Occupational Therapy Assistant?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the dynamics of occupational therapy in a rehabilitation center,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we reveal a flexible Rehabilitation Center Occupational Therapy Assistant job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive straight into it.

Rehabilitation Center Occupational Therapy Assistant Duties and Responsibilities

Occupational Therapy Assistants in rehabilitation centers work under the direct supervision of Occupational Therapists.

They help patients recover, improve, and maintain the skills needed for daily living and working.

Their primary duties and responsibilities include:

• Helping patients with therapeutic activities, such as stretches and other exercises
• Leading children and adults in therapeutic play or activities to promote motor skills and coordination
• Helping patients to utilize the therapy equipment effectively
• Assisting patients with disabilities, including teaching them to use special devices like wheelchairs or aids for eating and dressing
• Recording and reporting patient’s responses and progress to the therapist
• Maintaining a clean, safe, and organized work environment
• Helping to create a treatment plan, under the direction of the Occupational Therapist
• Teaching patients and their families about what to expect from the recovery process and how best to cope with challenges
• Adapting treatment programs to meet the changing needs of patients

 

Rehabilitation Center Occupational Therapy Assistant Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated Occupational Therapy Assistant to join our rehabilitation center team.

The Occupational Therapy Assistant will work under the supervision of our Occupational Therapists to administer therapeutic exercises, monitor performance, and assist patients with daily activities.

Our ideal candidate is a compassionate professional with excellent communication skills and a patient-centered approach.

The goal is to foster patient comfort and recovery, helping to make their lives better.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist occupational therapists in providing occupational therapy treatments and procedures.
• Record patients’ progress, report to occupational therapists, and update patient records accordingly.
• Help patients with rehabilitative activities and exercises outlined in a treatment plan developed in collaboration with an occupational therapist.
• Monitor patients’ performance in therapy activities, providing encouragement.
• Teach patients how to use special equipment; for example, wheelchairs, braces, etc.
• Prepare materials and assist with patient scheduling and billing.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area.

 

Qualifications

• An associate’s degree from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program.
• Current certification as an Occupational Therapy Assistant.
• Proven experience as an Occupational Therapy Assistant.
• Excellent knowledge of principles and practices of occupational therapy.
• Hands-on experience with therapeutic equipment.
• Great communication and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent physical condition and stamina.

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Rehabilitation Center Occupational Therapy Assistant
• Work Environment: Rehabilitation center. The role involves direct patient care and requires standing for extended periods.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Occupational Therapist.
• 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 a Rehabilitation Center Occupational Therapy Assistant Do?

Rehabilitation Center Occupational Therapy Assistants, often referred to as OTAs, work under the direct supervision of Occupational Therapists in rehabilitation centers.

They primarily assist individuals who are recovering from physical, mental, or emotional injuries or illnesses.

Their main job is to help patients perform therapeutic exercises as part of their recovery program, which are designed to improve their motor skills and cognitive functioning.

This can involve helping patients with mobility exercises, strengthening exercises, or activities of daily living such as eating, dressing, and grooming.

In addition to physical exercises, OTAs also help patients with mental and cognitive activities.

This can include memory exercises, problem-solving activities, and sensory activities to improve cognitive functioning and mental health.

OTAs are also responsible for preparing treatment areas, setting up therapy equipment, maintaining patient records, and assisting with patient evaluations.

They closely monitor a patient’s progress and report this information to the Occupational Therapist.

At times, they may also educate family members and caregivers about patient care, helping them understand the patient’s therapy program and how to support the patient’s recovery at home.

Their ultimate goal is to assist patients in regaining their independence and improving their ability to perform tasks in their daily living and working environments.

 

Rehabilitation Center Occupational Therapy Assistant Qualifications and Skills

An effective Rehabilitation Center Occupational Therapy Assistant should possess the following skills and qualifications:

• Knowledge of occupational therapy principles and practices to assist patients in performing a variety of therapeutic exercises and daily living activities.
• Interpersonal skills to interact and communicate effectively with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals.
• Physical stamina and dexterity to assist patients with their exercises, move equipment, and help patients move or reposition themselves.
• Compassion and empathy to understand and respond to the needs of patients who may be in distress or experiencing discomfort.
• Detail-oriented mindset to accurately follow treatment plans created by Occupational Therapists and record progress reports.
• Problem-solving skills to adapt therapy techniques to the needs and abilities of each patient.
• Time-management skills to schedule and manage therapy sessions in a timely manner, ensuring each patient receives the necessary attention and care.
• Ability to maintain patient confidentiality and adhere to professional ethics and standards of practice.
• Associate’s degree from an accredited occupational therapy assistant program, and state licensure or certification as required.

 

Rehabilitation Center Occupational Therapy Assistant Experience Requirements

Occupational Therapy Assistants generally complete an associate’s degree from an accredited occupational therapy assistant program.

These programs require supervised fieldwork, which provides the initial hands-on practical experience.

Entry-level candidates for Occupational Therapy Assistant roles might have 1 to 2 years of experience, often obtained through internships or part-time roles at rehabilitation centers, hospitals or outpatient clinics.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience are typically more familiar with the therapeutic techniques, patient-care protocols, and documentation required in rehabilitation settings.

These individuals may have developed their skills in roles such as Physical Therapy Aide, Rehabilitation Aide, or other similar roles in the healthcare sector.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have acquired leadership abilities and could be prepared for supervisory positions in rehabilitation centers.

They might also be proficient in specialized therapeutic areas like pediatric or geriatric occupational therapy.

Some rehabilitation centers may also prefer candidates who have obtained their certification as an Occupational Therapy Assistant from the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT), demonstrating their advanced competency and professional commitment in this field.

 

Rehabilitation Center Occupational Therapy Assistant Education and Training Requirements

To become a Rehabilitation Center Occupational Therapy Assistant, a candidate must have an associate’s degree from an accredited occupational therapy assistant program.

These programs typically take about two years to complete and cover areas such as anatomy, psychology, pediatric health, and geriatric health.

Clinical fieldwork is also a significant aspect of training, providing hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced occupational therapists or occupational therapy assistants.

This fieldwork provides practical experience in various settings such as hospitals, private practices, and rehabilitation centers.

Upon completing the educational program, the candidate must pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam to become a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA).

This certification provides proof of the individual’s professional competence and dedication to the field.

Some states also require occupational therapy assistants to obtain licensure before they can practice.

The licensure requirements vary by state, but usually involve passing the NBCOT exam and completing continuing education courses to maintain the license.

While not required, some occupational therapy assistants may choose to pursue specialized certifications in areas like pediatrics or geriatrics to enhance their skills and broaden their career opportunities.

These certifications demonstrate a high level of competency and commitment to the field.

 

Rehabilitation Center Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary Expectations

An Occupational Therapy Assistant at a Rehabilitation Center earns an average salary of $59,310 (USD) per year.

The salary may vary based on factors such as experience, the location of the center, and the size and reputation of the employing organization.

 

Rehabilitation Center Occupational Therapy Assistant Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Rehabilitation Center Occupational Therapy Assistant need?

Occupational Therapy Assistants in a rehabilitation center should have excellent communication skills, patience, and empathy to interact with patients of different ages and conditions.

They should also possess physical stamina for assisting patients with therapeutic exercises.

A strong understanding of therapy techniques and medical terminology is also crucial.

 

What qualifications are required for a Rehabilitation Center Occupational Therapy Assistant?

Rehabilitation Center Occupational Therapy Assistants typically require an associate’s degree from an accredited occupational therapy assistant program.

They must also pass the national certification exam to become a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA).

Additionally, most states require licensure or registration to practice.

 

What should you look for in a Rehabilitation Center Occupational Therapy Assistant resume?

When reviewing a resume, check for an associate’s degree in occupational therapy or a related field, and ensure the candidate has a valid certification and state license.

Look for experience in a rehabilitation center or healthcare setting.

Also, consider their knowledge of therapeutic exercises and ability to work with patients of different age groups and health conditions.

 

What qualities make a good Rehabilitation Center Occupational Therapy Assistant?

A good Rehabilitation Center Occupational Therapy Assistant is patient, compassionate, and understanding, as they often work with individuals facing challenging physical or emotional circumstances.

They should also be physically fit to assist patients and have strong problem-solving skills to adapt therapy plans as needed.

 

How demanding is the role of a Rehabilitation Center Occupational Therapy Assistant?

The role can be physically and emotionally demanding.

It involves assisting patients with their exercises, which may require physical strength and stamina.

On the emotional side, Occupational Therapy Assistants often work with patients who are dealing with challenging health conditions, requiring empathy and resilience.

Despite these challenges, the role can be incredibly rewarding, especially when patients make progress in their recovery.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the mysteries of what it truly means to be an Occupational Therapy Assistant in a Rehabilitation Center.

And guess what?

It’s not just about assisting with therapy.

It’s about sculpting a path of recovery, one patient at a time.

With our comprehensive Occupational Therapy Assistant job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the leap.

But why stop there?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating accurate job listings or crafting your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every patient you help is a part of a larger healing journey.

Let’s navigate that path. Together.

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