Launch Your Career: Occupational Therapy Assistant at the Fresno VA
Are you a dedicated Occupational Therapy Assistant looking to make a meaningful impact? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a compassionate and skilled Occupational Therapy Assistant to join the team at the VA Central California Health Care System in Fresno, CA. This position offers a unique opportunity to provide essential rehabilitative services to our nation's Veterans, helping them regain independence and improve their quality of life.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will be integral to the Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R) team. Your primary duties include:
- Assisting with the screening and evaluation of patient needs.
- Implementing delegated assessments and therapeutic interventions.
- Modifying treatment plans for patients with diverse diagnoses and disabilities.
- Recommending and fitting complex assistive or adaptive equipment.
- Documenting clinical services in the electronic health record.
- Educating patients and their caregivers on home-based therapeutic approaches.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet several mandatory criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Education: Associate's degree or higher in occupational therapy from an ACOTE-accredited program.
- Licensure/Certification: Must hold a current, unrestricted state license and be certified by the NBCOT.
- Proficiency: Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
- Compliance: Must pass a pre-employment physical and background investigation.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Category | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Education | Associate's Degree (ACOTE accredited) |
| Certification | NBCOT Certified |
| License | Current & Unrestricted State License |
| Experience | Short-term rehab/Acute care preferred |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $56,164 to $73,010 per year. Beyond the base pay, the VA provides an exceptional benefits package, including comprehensive health coverage, generous leave accrual, and retirement planning options.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: Ensure you use the specific Clinical Resume Document provided by the VA.
- Be Detailed: Do not leave gaps in your experience; include volunteer and clinical fieldwork.
- Double-Check Documents: Ensure all licenses and transcripts are attached correctly to your application.
Serving those who have served is a noble calling. If you are an Occupational Therapy Assistant with a passion for excellence and a heart for service, the VA Central California Health Care System wants to hear from you. Apply today to help us provide world-class rehabilitation services to our Veterans.
Why This Occupational Therapy Assistant Job Matters
Empower our Veterans on their path to recovery by joining the VA Central California Health Care System as an Occupational Therapy Assistant.
Occupational Therapy Assistant Job Overview
The VA Central California Health Care System in Fresno is seeking a dedicated Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) to join our Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation team. In this role, you will provide critical support to our nation's Veterans by assisting with therapeutic interventions, patient assessments, and functional restoration. This is a vital position that directly impacts the quality of life for those who have served our country.
Requirements for Occupational Therapy Assistant
- United States Citizenship.
- Associate's degree or higher in occupational therapy from an ACOTE-accredited program.
- Current certification as an OTA through the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
- Full, current, and unrestricted state license to practice occupational therapy.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- Must be able to successfully complete a background and security investigation.
- Willingness to sign a training-service and mobility agreement.
Preferred Qualifications for Occupational Therapy Assistant
- Prior experience working in short-term rehabilitation settings.
- Hands-on experience in skilled nursing facilities.
- Experience providing care in an acute hospital environment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and annual leave accrual.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- ✓Participation in the federal retirement system.
- ✓Supportive work environment within the VA Health Care system.
💡 How to Apply Occupational Therapy Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Occupational Therapy Assistant Job
- Create or update your profile on the USAJOBS platform.
- Review the position requirements and ensure you meet the eligibility criteria.
- Download and complete the required Clinical Resume Document from the provided VA career link.
- Prepare your full CV and supporting documentation, including licensure and certifications.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire via the provided application link.
- Submit your entire application package before the closing date of September 18, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and clear when describing your clinical experience to ensure you receive proper credit.
- Ensure all uploaded documents, particularly the required Clinical Resume, follow the specified formats.
- Verify that your licensure and NBCOT certification documents are current and readily accessible.
- Double-check that you have answered every question in the online questionnaire before submission.
- Monitor your email for status updates following the close of the job announcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of the OTA at the Fresno VA?
The OTA assists the supervising Occupational Therapist in evaluating patients, implementing treatment plans, and using complex therapeutic techniques to maximize the functional status of Veterans.
Are there specific education requirements for this role?
Yes, applicants must hold an Associate's degree or higher in occupational therapy from an ACOTE-accredited program and possess current NBCOT certification.
Is a license required to apply?
Yes, you must hold a full, current, and unrestricted state license to practice occupational therapy.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Central California Health Care System (VACCHCS) is a cornerstone of the VISN 21 network. We are committed to President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." Our facility features a 57-bed acute care center and a 54-bed Community Living Center, providing state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment services to the Veteran community.