Explore how your federal experience as a Occupational Therapist (GS-0631) translates into civilian opportunities — including salary comparisons, transferable skills, certifications, and top employers.
Understand how your GS level aligns with common corporate roles, responsibilities, and compensation. This helps frame your experience in terms that civilian employers recognize.
| GS Level Group | Corporate Titles | Responsibilities | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-4 | Rehabilitation Aide, Occupational Therapy Assistant, Therapy Support Specialist | Assists occupational therapists in preparing treatment plans, facilitates therapy sessions under supervision, maintains patient records, and manages therapy equipment. Provides support and performs basic tasks that aid patient care and recovery. | $32,000 - $45,000 |
| 5-7 | Occupational Therapist, Rehabilitation Specialist, Occupational Health Coordinator | Evaluates patients' needs and develops personalized therapy plans, implements treatment strategies, monitors patient progress, collaborates with healthcare teams, and educates patients and families on therapy practices and wellness. | $55,000 - $75,000 |
| 8-9 | Senior Occupational Therapist, Program Manager for Occupational Therapy, Clinical Specialist in Occupational Therapy | Leads therapy assessments, designs complex treatment programs, supervises junior therapists, evaluates program outcomes, develops clinical guidelines, and ensures compliance with healthcare regulations and best practices. | $75,000 - $95,000 |
| 10-11 | Occupational Therapy Supervisor, Clinical Director of Occupational Therapy, Therapeutic Services Manager | Oversees occupational therapy departments, manages staff performance, develops and enforces clinical protocols, budgets and resource allocations, and engages in community outreach programs to promote occupational therapy services. | $90,000 - $110,000 |
| 12-13 | Occupational Therapy Program Director, Senior Clinical Manager, Director of Rehabilitation Services | Directs therapy programs, develops strategic initiatives for service improvement, ensures integration of services across departments, manages interprofessional team dynamics, and handles regulatory compliance and funding opportunities. | $110,000 - $130,000 |
| 14-15 | Chief Occupational Therapist, Director of Health Services, Vice President of Rehabilitation Services | Leads organizational strategies for occupational therapy services, represents the department in administrative meetings, oversees facility-based and clinical operations, drives evidence-based practice initiatives, and manages large-scale program funding and partnerships. | $130,000 - $160,000 |
| SES | Executive Vice President of Patient Care Services, Chief Clinical Officer, Senior Vice President of Therapy Services | Provides executive leadership and strategic direction for all rehabilitation services, influences healthcare policies, develops corporate relationships, oversees quality assurance processes, and drives innovation and growth across service lines. | $160,000 - $200,000 |
Highlight the skills you've developed in federal service that directly apply to private sector roles. These core strengths help you stand out in interviews and on resumes.
Explore certifications and academic paths that enhance your value in the civilian job market. These credentials can bridge gaps and validate your expertise to employers.
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)
This certification allows individuals to work under the supervision of a registered occupational therapist, providing therapeutic interventions to clients. By obtaining the COTA, an occupational therapist demonstrates their capability and hands-on experience, which is highly valued in the civilian sector where teamwork and collaborative approaches are paramount.
Occupational Therapy License (OTR)
An OTR license certifies that an occupational therapist has met national standards for practice in occupational therapy. This credential is necessary for state-level practice and showcases an occupational therapist's expertise, making it a critical asset when pursuing roles in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and private practices.
Certified Hand Therapist (CHT)
This specialized certification focuses on the evaluation and treatment of upper extremity conditions, providing an occupational therapist with advanced skills. Holding a CHT credential enhances employability in civilian roles, especially in outpatient settings, where expertise in hand therapy can lead to better patient outcomes.
Board Certification in Occupational Therapy (BCOT)
Board certification, granted by the American Occupational Therapy Association, acknowledges an occupational therapist's advanced clinical skills and knowledge in the field. This certification can provide a competitive edge in job applications, especially for advanced practice roles in facilities looking for highly qualified and experienced professionals.
Neuro-Developmental Treatment Certification (NDT)
This certification specializes in the treatment of individuals with neurological conditions, enhancing an occupational therapist's ability to work with complex cases. In civilian positions, this expertise can differentiate a candidate, as many rehabilitation facilities seek therapists trained in advanced therapeutic techniques.
Pediatric Clinical Specialist (PCS)
The PCS certification highlights a therapist's specialized skills in working with children and adolescents, making them more attractive to employers in pediatric settings. This credential is particularly advantageous in civilian roles focused on child development and rehabilitation.
Advanced Practice Certifications (e.g., Autism Spectrum Disorder, Orthotics)
These niche certifications allow occupational therapists to focus on specific populations or interventions, giving them an edge when applying for specialized roles. In civilian employment, such targeted expertise can lead to more career advancement opportunities in innovative or specialized healthcare programs.
Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in Emerging Therapies
Pursuing CEUs in emerging practices such as telehealth or digital rehabilitation can keep an occupational therapist at the forefront of industry innovations. This proactive approach not only enhances skills but also positions the individual as a forward-thinking professional, which can be attractive to civilian employers.
See which companies and industries commonly hire professionals with your background. Use this insight to focus your job search and tailor your applications.
Get practical strategies to navigate the shift from federal to private sector work. Learn how to present your experience and avoid common transition pitfalls.
Stay informed on how your field is evolving and where opportunities are growing. These trends can guide your next steps and help you future-proof your career.
Transitioning from a federal GS-0631 Occupational Therapist role to a position in the private sector can be an exciting yet challenging journey. With the right mindset, tools, and strategies, you can successfully navigate this change. Here are some key areas to focus on in your transition:
Embrace Change: The first step towards a successful transition is developing a positive view of change. Leaving the federal job might feel like stepping into the unknown, but focus on the new opportunities that await you. Consider it an adventure rather than a loss.
Value Your Experience: Your experience as a federal employee has equipped you with unique skills and insights. Recognize the value of your background and how it will contribute to a future employer's objectives.
Be Open to Learning: The private sector operates differently from federal agencies. Be prepared to learn new processes, technologies, and workplace cultures. Embrace the learning curve with enthusiasm.
Adopt a Growth Mindset: Challenges are opportunities for growth. Approach your job search with curiosity and resilience. Adaptability is highly valued in the private sector.
Translate Your Federal Job Title: The first step in making your resume appealing for the private sector is translating your federal job title. For example, “Occupational Therapist (GS-0631)” can be simplified to “Licensed Occupational Therapist.”
Focus on Accomplishments: Rather than listing duties, highlight achievements and results. Quantify success where possible (e.g., improved patient outcomes by 30%, managed a caseload of X patients, etc.). This communicates your impact effectively.
Use Private Sector Language: Familiarize yourself with industry jargon and keywords used in job postings within the private sector. Tailor your resume by incorporating these terms. For example, instead of saying “developed treatment plans,” you might say “designed strategic rehabilitation programs.” This shows that you understand the industry.
Customize Each Application: Tailor both your resume and cover letter for each job application. Align your skills and experiences with the specific requirements of the position, and demonstrate how you can add value to the organization.
Understand the Company: Research the organization you are interviewing with. Understand their mission, values, and culture. Use this knowledge to align your responses with what they are looking for in a candidate.
Communicate Transferable Skills: Be prepared to discuss how your federal experience translates to the private sector. Skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and communication are universally valued. Prepare examples that demonstrate these competencies in action.
Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Behavioral interview questions (e.g., "Tell me about a time you faced a challenge in your role... ") are common. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and demonstrate your skills effectively.
Follow Up: After the interview, send a thank-you email to express gratitude. This isn’t only polite but also reinforces your interest in the position.
Reconnect with Old Contacts: Start by reaching out to former colleagues, supervisors, or clients. Let them know you’re looking for new opportunities; they may have leads or advice.
Leverage LinkedIn: Update your LinkedIn profile to reflect your transition. Join groups related to occupational therapy and private sector careers, and engage with content to boost your visibility within relevant circles.
Networking Events: Attend industry conferences, workshops, or local meetups related to occupational therapy or healthcare. Use these events to build relationships and gather insights from other professionals.
Informational Interviews: Reach out to professionals in your desired field and request informational interviews. This is a low-pressure way to gain insights into the industry and to expand your network.
Use Active Language: When describing your responsibilities and accomplishments, employ active verbs (e.g., “Directed,” “Collaborated,” “Implemented”). This illustrates leadership and initiative.
Highlight Interpersonal Skills: In both federal and private sectors, the ability to collaborate and communicate effectively is paramount. Showcase your skills in leading teams, engaging with clients, or managing conflicts.
Focus on Outcomes: Private sector employers are results-oriented. Describe how your actions led to positive outcomes (e.g., “increased patient satisfaction by implementing new feedback protocols”).
Showcase Continuous Improvement: The private sector values innovation and efficiency. Discuss any initiatives you led to improve processes within your federal role, emphasizing your ability to enhance quality and effectiveness.
Remember, transitioning to the private sector is a process that takes time and effort. Stay organized, remain patient, and keep a positive attitude. Use the resources available to you, including networking communities and professional development opportunities. Your journey may be challenging, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. With the skills and experiences you bring as an occupational therapist, you have much to offer in the private sector.
Good luck as you navigate this exciting transition!