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Occupational Therapy Aide

Healthcare

You'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

Learn the skills

Courses and certifications to get you job-ready

Supply inventory management

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