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Occupational Therapy Assistant Job Description: Top Duties and Requirements

Edited by Indeed Employer Content Team
Last updated October 8, 2025
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Indeed’s Employer Resource Library helps businesses grow and manage their workforce. With over 15,000 articles in 6 languages, we offer tactical advice, how-tos and best practices to help businesses hire and retain great employees.

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7 min read

An Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA), or Physiotherapy Assistant, works under the direction of an Occupational Therapist to help solve physical challenges that patients have with daily activities. Their duties include helping to assess patients’ physical abilities during day-to-day tasks, implementing the prescribed treatment plan developed by an Occupational Therapist, and providing additional training and education to patients and the community in which they work.

Occupational Therapy Assistant duties and responsibilities

An Occupational Therapy Assistant works closely with an Occupational Therapist and provides the treatment and therapy as outlined. They work independently by following the treatment plan or within a team of other health care providers. Their essential duties and responsibilities include:

  • Understanding and implementing the treatment plan set out by the Occupational Therapist
  • Establishing a positive working relationship with patients
  • Observing and monitoring the patient’s performance and progress
  • Managing equipment, supplies, and inventory
  • Providing education and training to patients, family members, and caretakers
  • Providing detailed and accurate patient records
  • Maintaining patient and personal safety at all times during treatment

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Occupational Therapy Assistant Job Description Examples:

Example 1

Join the Northwood team!

Northwood is currently accepting applications for an Occupational Therapy Assistantto join our team.

Responsibilities:
  • Works collaboratively with the interdepartmental team (RN, LPN, CCA, OT, PT)
  • Communicates with the Nursing team, OT and PT
  • Assists with and implements treatment programs prescribed by the Physiotherapist and Occupational Therapist
  • In conjunction with the floor based team, incorporates mobility maintenance strategies into the care routine
  • Reports client progress to the Occupational Therapist, Physiotherapist and the nursing care team
  • Creates and maintains a schedule for seeing residents and other duties
  • Promotes the safety of residents (e.g. educates staff and patients, monitors equipment)
  • Responsible for checking and calibrating Roho mattresses and cushions
  • Processes requests to obtain equipment

Qualifications:
  • One to two years of relevant work experience
  • Diploma in Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapist Assistant Program
  • Working knowledge of WHMIS
  • Must be able to meet the physical demands of the position including frequently stooping and bending and the ability to safely lift up to 44 lbs
  • Long term care experience is considered an asset
Hours of Work: 80 hours biweekly - Days

Start Date:Immediately

If you are interested in applying for this career opportunity, please click APPLY!

Job Type: hour shift

Example 2

Paeds in a Pod is a small clinic in Niagara, ON. We are collaborative, fun, and creative. At the heart of our mission is the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive and reach their fullest potential. We are dedicated to fostering independence, improving well-being, and, above all, making the journey towards growth and development an enjoyable and enriching experience for both children and their families.

Our work environment includes:
  • Flexible working hours

Duties:
  • Provide Occupational Therapy Assistant services to clients in the comfort of their homes
  • Understand and implement the treatment plan set out by the Occupational Therapist
  • Observe and monitor the client’s needs and progress and communicate with the Occupational Therapist
  • Maintain accurate and organized records of sessions and client progress

Requirements:
  • Minimum of 4 sessions per week.
  • Experience working with children
  • Access to a reliable vehicle for transportation to client locations.
  • Comfortable and willing to enter client homes to provide therapy services.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Valid Occupational Therapy Assistant certification.
  • A current criminal reference check for vulnerable population

Job Type: Casual

Pay: $45.00-$55.00 per hour

Benefits:
  • Flexible schedule
Flexible Language Requirement:
  • French not required



Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Niagara, ON: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)


Work Location: In person


Application deadline: start date: 2024-06-24

Example 3

About us

Dream Big Therapy Ltd. is a small business in Salmon Arm, BC V1E 1T2. We are a professional, supportive and inclusive clinic. Our goal is to provide a safe and welcoming setting for children and their families to work on overcoming challenges and facilitating success in their goal areas.

Our work environment includes:
  • Well resourced therapy spaces
  • Flexible working hours
  • On-the-job training
  • Relaxed atmosphere
  • Casual work attire



Job Summary:

We are seeking an Occupational Therapy Assistant to join our team. The ideal candidate will assist in providing occupational therapy services under the direction of an Occupational Therapist to help individuals develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working.

Responsibilities:

- Implement treatment plans as directed by the Occupational Therapist

- Work with clients to help them develop daily living skills

- Document patient progress and communicate effectively with the therapy team

- Provide support and education to family members

Experience:

- Experience in working with children and families is preferred



This position offers the opportunity to work closely with experienced therapists, gain valuable hands-on experience, and make a real difference in the lives of children and their families. If you are passionate about helping others and have the necessary skills and experience, we encourage you to apply for this rewarding position.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: $20.00-$35.00 per hour

Expected hours: 15 – 25 per week

Benefits:
  • Casual dress
  • Flexible schedule
  • On-site parking
Schedule:
  • Monday to Location: In person

Example 4

About us

Our goal is to Windsor-Essex Kid SPOT is a small business providing speech and language and occupational therapy services to children and youth in Windsor and Essex County. WE kid SPOT's missions is to support the development of individuals, families, and communities through evidence-informed and neurodiverse-affirming practices..

Our work environment includes:
  • On-the-job training
  • Flexible working hours


We are looking for an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) to join our team and provide assistance to our occupational therapists. The ideal candidate will have an understanding of the principles of occupational therapy and neurodiversity afferming practice.

Roles and responsibilities:

- Under the supervision of the Occupational Therapist, implement occupational therapy treatment plans one on one with children and families in their home, community, or in clinic.

- Document details of sessions including the child's progress toward their goals.

- Prepare and lead group sessions in collaboration with the Occupational Therapist.

- Administration tasks such as inventorying equipment and supplies, contacting clients to book sessions, monitoring referrals.

- Flexible work hours with evening and weekends required.

Essential Skills:

- Excellent communication skills, both oral and written.

- Excellent time management skills.

- Ability to work independently.

- Confidence to work as part of a team.

- Current First Aid and CPR.

- Minimum of one year of previous experience working with children with disabilities and their families is preferred.

Requirements:

- Post secondary degree or diploma in a related field of study (e.g., Occupational Therapy Assistant, Child and Youth Worker, Early Childhood Education, Developmental or Social Services)

- Valid drivers license and access to a reliable vehicle as much of the work is done in the community.

- Current Vulnerable Sector Check.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Salary: From $45,000.00 per year

Benefits:
  • Flexible schedule
  • Paid time off
Schedule:
  • Evening shift
  • Monday to Friday
  • Weekends as needed

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Windsor, ON N8T start date: 2023-09-11

Example 5

Physiotherapy Assistant/Occupational Therapy Assistant (PTA/OTA) Temporary Full time (12 - 18 months commencing Dec. 2022)

Located in the beautiful Annapolis Valley, Kings Regional Rehabilitation Centre
(KRRC) serves persons of all ages with intellectual, developmental, physical, behavioral, psychological, and/or psychiatric disabilities. We have an immediate opening for a Full-time TemporaryPhysiotherapy Assistant/Occupational
Therapy Assistant (PTA/OTA)at our Centre in Waterville, Nova Scotia.

Under the Direction of the Occupational Therapist(s) and the Director of Clinical Services, the PTA/OTA assists with the development and implementation of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy programs using a client and family centered approach in accordance with KRRC’s Mission, Vision, and Values and established policies and procedures. The PTA/OTA works directly with clients providing hands-on interventions to improve their quality of life and ability to perform desired activities and provides support to the Physiotherapist/Occupational Therapist(s) to ensure the smooth operation of the service and the best possible outcomes for clients.

The successful candidate will have the following:

  • Graduate of a recognized 2-year Physiotherapy Assistant/ Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA-PTA) program, e.g., the PTA/OTA Diploma Program offered at the Nova Scotia Community college (NSCC)
  • Experience working with individuals with intellectual disabilities, mental health issues, and/or behavioral challenges;
  • Demonstrated ability to relate well with clients, families, and other members of the inter-disciplinary team;
  • Excellent observational skills;
  • Demonstrated ability to problem-solve, seek solutions through collaboration, and provide leadership;
  • Strong organizational and time-management skills;
  • Ability to work independently to complete delegated tasks / programs;
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing;
  • Demonstrated accountability, initiative, and good judgment;
  • Proficiency with computers and relevant applications, e.g., Excel;
  • Valid Nova Scotia driver’s license;
  • Previous experience working as a PTA/OTA, especially in residential care, an asset.

KRRC offers a competitive benefits package and the successful candidate will be a member of our robust Clinical Services Team. The person in this position will be a member of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), Local 1472.

Candidates must be able to provide 3 references; work references or combination of work reference and other professional references are acceptable.

We appreciate all applications; however only those candidates invited for an interview will be notified.

Job Types: Full-time, Fixed term contract

Salary: $23.61 per hour

Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday

Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Waterville, NS B0P1V0: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Application question(s):
  • Are you a graduate of a recognized 2-year PTA/OTA you have experience working with individuals with intellectual disabilities, mental health issues, and/or behavioural challenges?

Example 6

Permanent Full-Time

Location: 4 First Nation communities; Atikameksheng Anishnawbek, Sagamok Anishnawbek, Serpent River First Nation and Mississauga First Nation

Maamwesying North Shore Community Health Services provides a full and coordinated continuum of care within the seven-member First Nation communities of the Mamaweswen, North Shore Tribal Council and to the urban Aboriginals residing in the city of Sault Ste. Marie through the Indian Friendship Centre. Services include N’Mninoeyaa Aboriginal Health Access (one of ten AHACs in Ontario), Northern Clinic, Mental Health and Addictions Services, Chronic Disease Prevention, and Traditional Health and Healing, Home and Community Support Services. Under the clinical direction and supervision of the Physiotherapist and the Occupational Therapist. you will implement rehabilitation treatment plans within the Otapta scope of practice as defined by the College of Physiotherapy and College of Occupational Therapy, in a clinical and home care setting.

Duties and responsibilities:
  • Implement established treatment plans of active clients and groups currently accessing therapy services, under the supervision of the respective therapist.
  • Implement established treatment plans which may include but is not limited to passive range of motion, hot/cold packs, exercises, individual or group therapy programs, sensory stimulation, and functional ADL activities.
  • Deliver cognitive rehabilitative intervention and prepare therapy materials.
  • Communicate observations and advise the Therapists of any change in the clients’ condition, which is not consistent with the normal course of recovery. Consults with Therapists regarding any changes to the therapy program or treatment.
  • Assists Therapist in arranging for the delivery and installation of loan equipment/assistive devices.
  • Documentation of treatment activities and other observations.
  • Maintains rehabilitative therapy specific documentation, such as clinic records, number of referral and inventory of equipment.
  • Demonstrates proper body mechanics, lifting and transfer techniques with clients.
  • Demonstrates the ability to use sound critical thinking skills towards the achievement of patient outcomes.
  • Support the implementation of the Ontario Dementia Strategy Day Program as per established guidelines.

Qualifications:
  • Post-secondary Occupational Therapy Assistant/Physiotherapy Assistant Diploma from an accredited institution, or post-secondary education in related rehabilitative health field
  • The ability to plan, organize and prioritize, while fostering a work environment conducive to the wellbeing of patients and staff
  • Knowledge and experience facilitating group programming activities for high risk seniors
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and to be self-motivated.
  • Knowledge of community-based health care deliver is an asset
  • Knowledge of interest in the health issues affecting Anishnawbe people. Cultural awareness and sensitivity training an asset
  • Must have access to a reliable vehicle and a valid G Class driver’s license

By joining our team, you will work for a dynamic organization well known and recognized for its innovative programs and services. We value our employees and strive for a quality workplace environment that provides lifelong learning, growth and well-being. Become part of an organization that provides:
  • Competitive salary
  • Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP)
  • Opportunity to participate in exciting research projects

Given the traditional practices of Aboriginal people, from time to time exposure to smoke from the burning of sacred medicines such as tobacco, sweet grass, sage or cedar may occur.
  • Accommodations for the disabled will be available upon request
  • An offer of employment will be conditional upon an acceptable vulnerable sector police records check.
  • Hiring of Aboriginal People will be given preference, as allowed under Section 14 of the Ontario Human Rights Code – Special Programs

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Salary: From $25.64 per hour

Benefits:
  • Company events
  • Company pension
  • Dental care
  • Employee assistance program
  • Extended health care
  • Paid time off
  • Vision care
  • Wellness program
Flexible language requirement:
  • French not required
Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday

Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Espanola, ON: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Education:
  • DCS / DEC deadline: 2022-06-29

Example 7

We are looking for a permanent part-time (0.50 FTE) Occupational Therapy Assistant for the Benevolence Care Centre!

Job Summary

Reporting to the Occupational Therapist, the Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) carries out the rehabilitative treatment plans and programs and assists the therapist in monitoring and evaluating Residents’ progression. The OTA will be responsible for day-to-day monitoring and reporting the resident's function, mobility, and response to programs. The OTA will also assist with feeding residents if needed, equipment repair and provision, and cleaning. The OTA will ensure a commitment to Resident Safety and to our “culture of safety” as per the Strategic Directions of Park Place Seniors Living. This is a AUPE unionized position.

Qualifications:

  • Completion of a recognized Rehabilitation Assistant Program or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Equivalences may be considered.
  • Experience working with seniors, the disabled, or those requiring mental health support is an asset
  • Must be physically fit, able to be on your feet for long periods of time
  • Experience with Microsoft Office, including Word and Excel
  • Effective written and oral communication skills in the English language
  • Must be able to work independently, and as part of the interdisciplinary team
  • Clear criminal record security clearance with vulnerable Sector included (no more than 6 months old)
  • Valid Class 5 Driver's License
  • Sucessful candidate must have full COVID-19 vaccination

Typical Duties and Responsibilities include but not limited to:

  • Carries out the designated components of a rehabilitative treatment plan and/or program as directed by an Occupational Therapist, Speech Language Pathologist or Physiotherapist such as strengthening, range of motion (ROM)m ambulation training, self-care activities, life skills, work simulation, seating, positioning, auditory comprehension, reading, writing, and/or communication/oral therapy.
  • Contributes to the overall evaluation of the resident identifying and reporting verbally and in writing observable social, emotional, cognitive, physical and functional factors which might impact the resident’s therapeutic program and progress; observes and reports cognitive and functional changes, concerns and/or changes to residents’ condition to designated clinician. Performs various tests and/or tasks as assigned, recording and reporting relevant data for interpretation by the therapist. Provides input into the planning, implementation, modification and evaluation of the rehabilitative treatment plan and/or program.
  • Demonstrates the techniques of activities to residents as directed by the therapist, such as the use of prescribed treatment/adaptive devices such as splints, wheelchairs, walkers, modified eating utensils, work simulation tools, electronic and manual devices for augmentative communication, and other equipment as required.
  • Assists in the fabrication and modifications of splints, seating and exercise devices, mobility and assistive devices. Sets up and adapts equipment such as changing wheelchair backs and adjusting wheelchair height as instructed by the therapist.
  • Provides functional skills training to residents and families in activities of daily living, mobility and communication; demonstrates the use of assistive devices and assists with power wheelchair mobility training as directed by the therapist.
  • Assists residents in dressing or toileting as required in preparation for, during and following therapy intervention.
  • Prepares and applies therapeutic treatment modalities as assigned such as Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS), Neuro-Muscle Electrical Stimulation (NMES), ice, heat and wax treatments.
  • Maintains therapy equipment and supplies by methods such as cleaning equipment following established infection control procedures, and maintaining inventories. Provides input regarding purchase of new equipment and supplies, general maintenance and repair of equipment.
  • Completes required reports and documentation such as written resident reports, supply requisitions, resident billing approval forms and workload statistics.
  • Performs clerical duties such as answering the telephone, making appointments, filing charts, relaying messages, and recording data such as resident contact time as required.
  • Transports equipment and/or supplies to appointments as required.
  • Participated in departmental meetings, resident conferences and quality improvement initiatives as requested.
  • Attends education/in-service programs as required.
  • Contributes to quality of care and safety assurance and improvement by participating in PPSL site committees.
  • Participates in quality improvement/performance measurement initiatives and processes.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Job Type: Part-time
Part-time hours: 20 per week

Salary: $20.22-$25.33 per hour

Benefits:
  • Company events
  • Employee assistance program
Schedule:
  • Day shift
  • Monday to Friday

COVID-19 considerations:
Must have at least two doses of COVID-19 Vaccination



Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Edmonton, AB: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Application question(s):
  • Have you completed a recognized Rehabilitation Assistant program? or Do you have an Occupational Assistant Certificate?

Education:
  • Secondary School (required)

Licence/Certification:
  • Class 5 Driver's License Location: In person
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What does an Occupational Therapy Assistant do?

The role of an Occupational Therapy Assistant is to support an Occupational Therapist in helping patients with physical, sensory, or cognitive problems. This includes aspects of personal care, productivity, and leisure activities. All of their job-related competencies are directly related to supporting the treatment and care provided by an Occupational Therapist. An Occupational Therapy Assistant provides hands-on patient care and service to facilitate treatment and rehabilitation.

Occupational Therapy Assistant skills and qualifications

Working with a diverse group of people with various physical limitations, an Occupational Therapy Assistant requires patience, understanding, and compassion. Having a friendly and calm demeanor is an essential skill of any successful OTA. Some of the critical skills and qualifications of an Occupational Therapy Assistant may include:

  • Seeking appropriate consultation from an Occupational Therapist when needed
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to communicate with a diverse population
  • Advocating for the role of occupational therapy to help improve the lives of patients
  • Willingness to provide a high level of client service to all demographics
  • A desire to help others with compassion and empathy

Occupational Therapy Assistant experience requirements

Occupational Therapy Assistant candidates need to have one to two years of experience working in occupational therapy or physical therapy roles. Entry-level candidates may not have professional occupational therapy experience but should be able to demonstrate experience in occupational therapy from intern and volunteer positions. Ideally, an Occupational Therapy Assistant candidate will have experience working with the types of patients required by the role, such as the elderly or veterans.

Occupational Therapy Assistant education and training requirements

In Canada, the role of an Occupational Therapy Assistant is not regulated. This means that there is no official education or licence required for candidates. However, most OTA jobs require candidates to have completed an accredited two-year Occupational Therapy Assistant program at a college or vocational school. Some roles may require candidates to have specific education and training depending on the work environment such as CPR and first aid. Additional on-going training can be gained on the job.

Occupational Therapy Assistant salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary of an Occupational Therapy Assistant in Canada is $68,953 per year, depending on factors like experience, education, location, and company.

Job description samples for similar positions

If an Occupational Therapy Assistant is not quite what you are looking for, other job description samples that may fit your needs include:

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Occupational Therapy Assistant job description FAQs

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