Customize Your Journey
For Educators: Military Resources
For Educators: Military Resources

Occupational Therapy Assistants

Median Salary
67,010
Job Outlook
+23%
In-Demand

Overview

What are the responsibilities of this role?

Assist occupational therapists in providing occupational therapy treatments and procedures. May, in accordance with state laws, assist in development of treatment plans, carry out routine functions, direct activity programs, and document the progress of treatments. Generally requires formal training.

Did you know this role exists in the Military?

What is the job outlook?

Overall employment of occupational therapy assistants and aides is projected to grow 21 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 7,800 openings for occupational therapy assistants and aides are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Compensation

What is the typical salary range?

$33,510

10%

$67,010

Median

$80,360

90%

How does location impact how much salary?

Education

What level of education do professionals in this role have?

Education Level

  • Associate's degree

    91%

  • Some college

    5%

  • Bachelor's degree

    2%

Which college majors best prepare you for this role?

  • Occupational Therapist Assistant

Skills and Interest

Which skill sets are the most valuable to possess?

Skills

  • Leadership

    High

  • Verbal Skills

    Mid

  • Math and Science Skills

    Mid

  • Technology Design and Control

    Low

  • Equipment Operation and Maintenance

    Mid

  • Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

    Mid

What knowledge should you bring to the table?

  • Customer and Personal Service
  • Psychology
  • Therapy and Counseling
  • Education and Training
  • Administrative

What challenges will you likely face in the workplace?

Workplace

  • Time Pressure

    High

  • Repetitiveness

    High

  • Responsibility

    High

  • Decision Making

    High

  • Physical Activity

    High

  • Exposure to Job Hazards

    Mid

  • Level Of Competition

    Mid

What personality traits help people thrive in this role?

Social

You love connecting with people, helping others and making a difference in your community.

Conventional

You like structure, staying organized, and working with systems to get things done efficiently.

Realistic

You love hands-on work and solving practical problems — like fixing things and building stuff.

RIASEC represents six broad interest areas—Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional—helping individuals identify careers that match their skills and preferences.

Take the RIASEC Test

Related Occupations

Data supplied by Bureau of Labor Statistics, National Center of Education Statistics, Defense Manpower Data Center (View our update schedule). Contact any business, college or military service branch to answer additional questions.