Explore Careers

Occupational Therapy Specialists

Explore Careers

Occupational Therapy Specialists

Health Science
Enlisted Role

Service Branches with this Role

  • Army logo
  • Navy logo

What do Occupational Therapy Specialists do in the Military?

Occupational therapy specialists support occupational therapists and medical officers in administering occupational therapy-- a form of therapy that encourages rehabilitation through the performance of activities required in daily life.

Where do Occupational Therapy Specialists work?

Occupational therapy assistants work in hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation centers.

How much do they make?

Median Military Salary

This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.


Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.

$142,724

Military Salary Range

This is the range based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.


Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.

$29,177 - $282,632

How Military Pay is More Than Just a Salary

Base pay is the standard income you'll earn as a service member, providing a stable foundation to start achieving your financial goals.

  • Set based on rank and years of service.
  • Paid every month.

Allowances are additional payments to help cover living expenses like housing and food.

  • Tax-free payments.
  • Varies by location and family status.

Special pay provides extra compensation for unique skills, hazardous duties, or challenging assignments.

  • Based on specialized roles.
  • Varies by position and duty.

What training do Occupational Therapy Specialists gain in the Military?

All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training. Occupational therapy assistants in the Military will gain skills through classroom study, including practice in providing patient healthcare, and on-the-job experience. Job-specific training content may include:

  • Anatomy, physiology, and psychology
  • Handling and positioning of patients
  • Principles of rehabilitation
  • Patient care
  • Working on a medical team

Military Training for Enlisted Service members

All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training.

What skills help Occupational Therapy Specialists succeed?

  • Ability to communicate effectively
  • Interest in working with and helping people
  • Patience to work with people whose injuries heal slowly

What are possible career paths after the Military?

  • Physical Therapist Aides
  • Physical Therapist Assistants
  • Occupational Therapy Aides
  • Occupational Therapy Assistants
  • Orthotists and Prosthetists
  • Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Physicians
  • Recreational Therapists
  • Physical Therapists

Interested? Take Your Next Step!