Terms that decide this screen
These are the exact keywords ATS systems extract from occupational therapist job descriptions. Miss them and you are filtered out before a recruiter sees your name.
How to structure your skills section
Group them the way a parser reads them — one labelled line per category, plain commas, no tables.
5 resume mistakes that get occupational therapists filtered out
The patterns we see most often on occupational therapist resumes that fail ATS screening — each with the edit that fixes it.
Failing to specify patient populations
Clarify your focus: "Specialized in pediatric therapy, improving fine motor skills in children aged 3-10 by 30% over 6 months."
Vague descriptions of therapeutic techniques
Be specific: "Implemented sensory integration techniques, reducing sensory processing issues by 40% in children with autism."
Not highlighting certification
Place NBCOT certification prominently in your header to pass initial ATS checks.
Ignoring outcome-based achievements
Quantify impact: "Enhanced patient ADL independence by 50% through customized rehabilitation plans."
Overlooking technology skills
Mention EHR proficiency: "Streamlined patient documentation by 20% using Epic EHR system."
Who is hiring occupational therapists
These companies are actively hiring, and their ATS systems are the ones your resume has to pass.
Paste a real Occupational Therapist posting and see your score
HireRaft gives you a keyword match score, names what is missing, and rewrites the bullets to pass — in about 27 seconds. Free, no card.
Occupational Therapist resume — frequently asked questions
What certifications should be highlighted on an occupational therapist resume?
The NBCOT certification is crucial and should be listed prominently. Additional certifications like CPR and First Aid can also enhance your resume.
How can I demonstrate impact as an occupational therapist?
Use specific metrics: "Improved patient mobility by 30% within 3 months" or "Reduced hospital readmission rates by 15% through targeted interventions."
Should I include volunteer experience in my resume?
Yes, especially if it involved relevant skills. For instance, "Volunteered at a senior center, conducting weekly exercise classes that improved participants' balance by 25%."
How do I format my resume for ATS systems in healthcare?
Use clear headings and bullet points. Include keywords like 'ADL assessments' and 'rehabilitation planning' to ensure ATS compatibility.
What is the ideal length for an occupational therapist resume?
For those with less than 5 years of experience, aim for 1 page. With over 5 years, 1-2 pages is acceptable. Ensure all content is relevant and concise.
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Join the occupational therapists using HireRaft to get past the filter and in front of recruiters.
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