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Acute Care Occupational Therapy Per Diem Jobs in California

Learn More About Per Diem Opportunities in Acute Care Occupational Therapy in California

AMN Healthcare is excited to offer exceptional per diem opportunities for Acute Care Occupational Therapists throughout California, leveraging our 40 years of experience as a staffing leader in the healthcare industry. Every year, we support over 10,000 healthcare professionals, providing personalized guidance tailored to your career needs. We understand the unique demands of Allied professionals, and our dedicated team is committed to helping you find the right per diem job that aligns with your skills, flexibility, and lifestyle. Join us to experience a rewarding career path where your expertise is valued, and your professional growth is our priority.

Learn More about Hiring Trends for Acute Care Occupational Therapists in California

At AMN Healthcare, we have successfully placed 4 Acute Care Occupational Therapists in high-paying Per Diem jobs across California, helping professionals like you find rewarding opportunities in top healthcare facilities. These recently filled positions offered weekly pay ranging from $7,063 to $8,932, with an average of $7,976 per week.

Our previously filled roles were at respected healthcare institutions such as Nexus NCA Acute, demonstrating the wide range of opportunities available for skilled professionals like you. If you’re looking for similar Per Diem job openings in California, now is the perfect time to explore your options. With our industry expertise and personalized job-matching services, AMN Healthcare can help you find your ideal position with competitive pay and great benefits.

Take a look at some of the latest Acute Care OT positions recently filled in California, offering insight into the competitive pay rates and exciting opportunities available.

  • Acute Care Occupational Therapist making $8,932 per week filled on 2/17/26
  • Acute Care Occupational Therapist making $8,932 per week filled on 2/5/26
  • Acute Care Occupational Therapist making $7,504 per week filled on 1/22/26

Where Can an Acute Care OT Work in California and What Can They Expect?

As an Acute Care Occupational Therapist in California, you will have the opportunity to work in a diverse range of healthcare settings, including large academic medical centers, community hospitals, and specialized rehabilitation facilities. Your role will involve collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to provide vital rehabilitative care to patients recovering from surgeries, injuries, or acute medical conditions. You will focus on restoring patients’ functional abilities, improving their independence, and enhancing their overall quality of life through personalized therapeutic interventions. Additionally, you may find opportunities in innovative programs that emphasize occupational therapy in emergency departments or critical care units, engaging in rapid assessments and interventions to optimize patient outcomes in fast-paced environments. The vibrant healthcare landscape in California offers a dynamic work experience for Acute Care Occupational Therapists dedicated to making a meaningful impact in patient rehabilitation and recovery.

Why Should Acute Care Occupational Therapists Consider a Per Diem Job in California?

As a per diem Acute Care Occupational Therapist in California, you’ll not only advance your career but also enjoy a vibrant and dynamic lifestyle in one of the most sought-after states. California boasts a diverse climate, from the sunny beaches of Southern California to the scenic coastal towns and the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains, allowing you to embrace outdoor activities year-round. With bustling cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego, you’ll have access to world-class dining, shopping, and cultural attractions, including museums, theaters, and music festivals. The state’s rich diversity fosters a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for exploring everything from stunning national parks like Yosemite to iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge. Enjoy the flexibility of per diem work while experiencing a fulfilling career surrounded by the beauty and excitement that California has to offer!

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Insights into Per Diem Acute Care Occupational Therapy Job Trends in California

As you explore the following statistics on per diem Acute Care Occupational Therapy jobs available in California, you’ll gain valuable insights into the current job market landscape. These charts provide a comprehensive overview of average pay trends over the last three months, showcasing the dynamic nature of compensation in this field. Additionally, they outline the average, minimum, and maximum pay for similar positions over the past year, allowing you to identify potential earning opportunities and make informed career decisions.

Understanding the count and types of healthcare facilities across the U.S. that are offering these lucrative positions can further enhance your perspective on where to focus your job search. Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting your career, leveraging this data will empower you to navigate the competitive landscape of Occupational Therapy. Use these insights to align your goals with current market demands and seize the best opportunities available.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Per Diem Acute Care Occupational Therapy Jobs near California

How much does a Per Diem Acute Care Occupational Therapist earn in California on average?

As of October 21, 2026 the average weekly pay for a Per Diem Acute Care Occupational Therapist in California is $7,976.

What is the highest salary offered for a Acute Care Occupational Therapy Per Diem job in California?

As of October 21, 2026, the highest weekly pay for a per diem Acute Care Occupational Therapist job in California is $8,932.

What types of experience are often expected for an Acute Care OT Per Diem job in California?

Acute Care Occupational Therapists in California are typically expected to have a degree in occupational therapy along with clinical experience in an acute care setting, which often includes working with patients post-surgery or those with acute medical conditions. Additionally, certification and familiarity with state regulations can enhance a candidate’s qualifications for a per diem role.

What job opportunities are typically available for Acute Care Occupational Therapy per diem positions in CA?

Acute Care Occupational Therapy positions in California include Strike and Travel roles. These options provide flexibility for professionals seeking different work arrangements based on their preferences and experience.

What types of facilities typically hire Acute Care Occupational Therapy Per Diem jobs in California?

Acute Care Occupational Therapy per diem jobs in California are typically offered by hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and specialty clinics that provide immediate medical care for patients with severe health conditions. These facilities often require occupational therapists to assist patients in regaining functional abilities and improving their quality of life during their hospital stay.

What kinds of benefits from an employer should an Acute Care OT look for when looking for a Per Diem job in California?

When searching for a per diem job as an Acute Care Occupational Therapist in California, it’s important to consider benefits such as flexible scheduling that accommodates personal needs and promotes work-life balance. Look for employers offering competitive pay rates that reflect your skills and experience, as well as potential bonuses or overtime opportunities. Additionally, assess whether the employer provides access to continuing education and professional development resources to support your growth in the field. Finally, consider health benefits and retirement plans that can enhance your overall compensation package, even in a per diem role.

What are some top reasons a Per Diem Acute Care Occupational Therapist would have for looking for a job in California?

Many Acute Care Occupational Therapists are drawn to California for its competitive salaries and diverse job opportunities within a vibrant healthcare system. Additionally, the state’s favorable climate and an abundance of recreational activities contribute to an appealing work-life balance.

What are some most popular cities in California a Per Diem Acute Care Occupational Therapist would want to work and live in?

Popular cities in California for a per diem Acute Care Occupational Therapist to consider include Los Angeles for its diverse healthcare opportunities, San Francisco for its progressive environment and strong occupational therapy community, and San Diego for its beautiful weather and quality of life. Each of these cities offers a unique blend of professional growth and a vibrant lifestyle. The availability of various healthcare facilities also provides ample job opportunities within the acute care setting.

What things should a Per Diem Acute Care OT look for in a new position?

A per diem Acute Care Occupational Therapist should seek a position that offers flexible scheduling to accommodate varied availability while ensuring a supportive team environment that fosters professional growth. It’s also important to consider the hospital’s patient population and the types of conditions treated, as this can influence the level of experience and skill development. Additionally, evaluating the facility’s resources and the potential for collaboration with other healthcare professionals can enhance job satisfaction and effectiveness in patient care.

Which Cities in California Offer the Best Acute Care OT Job Opportunities?

California is renowned for its diverse cities, cultural richness, and vibrant job markets, making it an ideal destination for professionals in various fields, especially Acute Care Occupational Therapy. AMN Healthcare offers exciting job opportunities in cities such as San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Fresno, and Sacramento, each presenting unique advantages and lifestyle options for healthcare professionals.

San Diego, with its stunning beaches and sunny atmosphere, is a fantastic choice for those seeking a balance between work and leisure. Acute Care Occupational Therapists here can expect a competitive salary ranging from $75,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience and specific roles, while the cost of living is about 30% higher than the national average. Housing options range from coastal apartments to suburban homes, catering to various lifestyles and preferences. The work environment in San Diego is known for its collaborative spirit among healthcare professionals, and the temperate climate allows for outdoor activities year-round, making it an ideal environment for both work and play.

Los Angeles, the bustling heart of entertainment and culture, offers robust opportunities for Acute Care Occupational Therapists. Salaries typically range from $80,000 to $110,000, reflecting the city’s competitive job market, though the cost of living is also notably high, approximately 50% above the national average. With a plethora of housing options that include trendy downtown lofts and family-friendly neighborhoods, professionals can find a suitable place to call home. The work atmosphere here is dynamic and fast-paced, and the rich tapestry of activities—from world-class dining to cultural events—offers a vibrant lifestyle that is hard to match.

San Francisco, known for its iconic landmarks and tech-driven economy, provides an appealing backdrop for healthcare professionals. The average salary for Acute Care Occupational Therapists in this golden city is between $85,000 and $115,000, though the significant cost of living, approximately 65% higher than the national average, must be taken into account. Housing options vary, but rent prices can be steep, particularly in the city center. Known for its progressive work culture, San Francisco offers a supportive environment for occupational therapists, complemented by an exhilarating lifestyle filled with art, history, and an array of recreational activities.

Fresno, situated in California’s agricultural heartland, offers a different but equally enticing living experience for occupational therapy professionals. With salaries for Acute Care Occupational Therapists averaging around $70,000 to $90,000, the cost of living remains more manageable, around 20% lower than the national average. Housing is generally more affordable, providing varied options from ranch-style homes to modern apartments. The work environment in Fresno is characterized by a strong sense of community, making it an inviting place to grow professionally, while the nearby Sierra Nevada mountains offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape into nature on their days off.

Lastly, Sacramento, California’s capital, is a hub for healthcare and government jobs, making it an attractive option for Acute Care Occupational Therapists. Professionals can expect salaries ranging from $75,000 to $95,000, with a cost of living that is about 30% less than in larger cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles. Housing options are diverse, featuring everything from charming Victorian homes to contemporary condos. The work atmosphere is supportive and varied, promoting collaboration among healthcare workers, while Sacramento’s rich history, numerous parks, and community events contribute to a laid-back lifestyle that values both work and play in equal measure.

In summary, each city offers its unique blend of professional opportunities, lifestyle perks, and vibrant communities, making them excellent choices for those pursuing a career in Acute Care Occupational Therapy through AMN Healthcare.

Discover Healthcare Facilities in California That Hire Acute Care Occupational Therapy Professionals

Discover the diverse landscape of healthcare facilities in California known for their commitment to staffing Acute Care Occupational Therapy Allied professionals in per diem roles. From bustling urban hospitals to specialized rehabilitation centers, these institutions offer flexible opportunities for skilled therapists looking to make a meaningful impact on patient care across the Golden State.

Adventist Health Clear Lake
Adventist Health Clear Lake is a critical access hospital at 15630 18th Ave., Clearlake, CA, with clinical departments spanning emergency and inpatient acute care, ICU, labor and delivery, perioperative services (OR, PACU), radiology and advanced imaging (CT, mammography), laboratory and polysomnography, outpatient services and home health, plus case management and occupational health. The facility lists allied health and nursing professions on staff to support its inpatient and outpatient clinical services.
15630 18th Ave., CLEARLAKE, CA 95422
Departments
Outpatient, PACU, Acute, OR, MS, Labor & Delivery, Adult, Case Manager, Radiology, Laboratory, Mammography, ICU, Computed Tomography, Occupational Health, Polysomnography, ER, and Home Health
Shifts: 8 D, 8 E, 8 N, 10 D, 10 E, 10 N, 12 D, 12 E, and 12 N
Durations: 6 wks, 9 wks, 10 wks, 11 wks, 12 wks, 13 wks, 20 wks, and 26 wks
Adventist Health Howard Memorial
TJC
Non-Profit
Adventist Health Howard Memorial is a critical access hospital at 1 Marcela Dr., Willits, CA, serving the Wagon Wheel Mobile Home Park area and surrounding communities. The non-profit facility, established in 2002, is accredited by TJC and operates 25 beds with four operating rooms and one endoscopy room. Clinical departments include acute/inpatient surgical, medical/surgical ICU, laboratory, home health, outpatient, CT and MRI, and it provides services such as pharmacy, anesthesia, diagnostic radiology, clinical laboratory, rehabilitation therapies, swing bed and therapeutic radiology. Employed professions include physicians, advanced practice providers, nursing, allied health and support services; the facility reports a workforce equivalent to approximately 160 full-time positions and hosts multiple residency program types including allopathic, osteopathic, dental and podiatric.
1 Marcela Dr., WILLITS, CA 95490
25 certified beds 4 operating rooms Established 2002
SERVICES
Pharmacy
Anesthesia
Clinical Laboratory
Diagnostic Radiology
Dietary
Departments
Home Health, Laboratory, Adult, Outpatient, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Acute, Computed Tomography, Inpatient Surgical, and Intensive Care Unit (Medical/Surgical ICU)
Shifts: 8 D, 8 E, 8 N, 9 D, 10 E, 12 D, 12 E, and 12 N
Durations: 13 wks, 24 wks, 26 wks, and 28 wks
Adventist Health Lodi Memorial
TJC
Adventist Health Lodi Memorial, a short-term acute care hospital at 975 South Fairmont Ave., Lodi, CA, established in 1966, is a 190-bed facility near LodiLakeWeather and Pearson accredited by TJC. Clinical operations span acute and specialty departments — ICU/CCU/CVICU, medical/surgical ICU, NICU, ED/emergency department and urgent care, OR/CVOR with a cath lab, inpatient rehab, oncology and radiation, plus extensive diagnostic imaging and outpatient services — and offered services include pharmacy, anesthesia, clinical laboratory, physical therapy, respiratory care, postoperative recovery/PACU and swing bed; there is one operating room. The workforce includes physicians, advanced practice providers, nursing, allied and support services, the facility hosts multiple residency program types (Allopathic, Osteopathic, Dental, Podiatric and Other), and maintains a workforce equivalent to approximately 171 full-time positions.
975 SOUTH FAIRMONT AVE., LODI, CA 95240
190 certified beds 1 operating rooms Established 1966
SERVICES
Pharmacy
Anesthesia
Clinical Laboratory
Dietary
Outpatient Services
Departments
Cath Lab, Radiation, Computed Tomography, Diagnostic, Radiology, Long Term Acute Care, Mammography, ICU, PACU, First Assist, Echo, Labor & Delivery, Acute, Postpartum, Home Health, CVICU, Director of Nursing, Inpatient Rehab, MS, Vascular, Retail, ER, NICU, Telemetry, Adult, Oncology, CVOR, OR, Case Manager, Outpatient, Nurse Manager, Coronary Care Unit (CCU), Emergency Department, Intensive Care Unit (Medical/Surgical ICU), Pediatric, and Urgent Care Center
Shifts: 8 D, 8 E, 8 N, 10 D, 10 E, 10 N, 12 D, 12 E, and 12 N
Durations: 3 wks, 5 wks, 7 wks, 8 wks, 9 wks, 11 wks, 12 wks, 13 wks, 16 wks, 25 wks, 26 wks, and 52 wks
Adventist Health Ukiah Valley
TJC
Non-Profit
Adventist Health Ukiah Valley is a short-term acute care hospital in Ukiah, CA (275 Hospital Dr.) founded in 1966 with 127 beds and non-profit ownership, accredited by TJC. Clinical capacity includes six operating rooms and two endoscopy rooms, inpatient and outpatient surgery, intensive care and neonatal services (NICU and neonatal nursery), labor and delivery/obstetrics, oncology and CARF-certified inpatient rehabilitation; imaging and diagnostic services span CT, MRI, PET, nuclear medicine and echocardiography while ancillaries list pharmacy, clinical laboratory, respiratory care, physical and speech therapy, and dialysis. The facility reports medical staff across physicians, advanced practice, nursing, allied and support services and hosts residency program types including allopathic, osteopathic, dental, podiatric and other programs.
275 HOSPITAL DR., UKIAH, CA 95482
127 certified beds 6 operating rooms Established 1966
SERVICES
Pharmacy
Acute Renal Dialysis
Alcohol/Drug
Anesthesia
Chemotherapy
Departments
Outpatient, Diagnostic, Acute, NICU, Labor & Delivery, MS, Computed Tomography, Laboratory, Oncology, Echo, Retail, Adult, ER, ICU, Case Manager, OR, PACU, CARF Inpatient Rehabilitation, Emergency Department, Inpatient Surgical, Intensive Care Unit (Medical/Surgical ICU), Neonatal ICU (NICU), Neonatal Nursery, Organ Transplant (Non-Medicare Certified), Obstetrics (OB/L&D), Ophthalmic Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery (Hospital), Outpatient Rehabilitation, Outpatient Surgery, and Pediatric
Shifts: 8 D, 8 E, 8 N, 10 D, 10 E, 10 N, 12 D, 12 E, and 12 N
Durations: 8 wks, 9 wks, 10 wks, 11 wks, 12 wks, 13 wks, 14 wks, 15 wks, 16 wks, 18 wks, 24 wks, 26 wks, and 138 wks
Arroyo Grande Community Hospital
Arroyo Grande Community Hospital is a short-term acute care hospital at 345 S Halcyon Rd in Arroyo Grande, CA, located near the ARroyo Trailer Park; it lists an Acute department and employs allied health professionals. As a short-term acute care hospital with allied staff, the facility focuses on time-limited inpatient and outpatient clinical care and supports diagnostic and treatment services typical for acute medical and surgical needs.
345 S Halcyon Rd, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
Departments
Acute
Shifts: 8 D
Durations: 13 wks
Barstow Community Hospital
Barstow Community Hospital is located at 820 East Mt. View in Barstow, CA, near North Barstow and the Eniwetok Housing Area; the short-term acute care hospital includes departments such as Radiology, Laboratory, Computed Tomography, Acute and Nuclear Medicine. As a short-term acute care hospital employing allied health professionals, it provides diagnostic imaging, laboratory services and inpatient acute care support typical of this facility type.
820 East Mt. View, BARSTOW, CA 92311
Departments
Laboratory, Computed Tomography, Acute, Nuclear Medicine, and Radiology
Shifts: 10 D, 12 D, and 12 E
Durations: 12 wks
Centinela Hospital Medical Center
TJC
For-Profit
Centinela Hospital Medical Center is a short-term acute care hospital at 555 E Hardy St in Inglewood, CA, with 400 beds, for‑profit ownership, accreditation by TJC and an established year of 1966. Clinical departments include cardiac programs (Cath Lab, CVICU, coronary care and open heart/cardiothoracic surgery), multiple critical care units (ICU, medical/surgical ICU, CCU), Emergency Department, obstetrics (OB/L&D) with neonatal nursery, pediatric and psychiatric units, inpatient and outpatient surgery, rehabilitation and assorted imaging/diagnostic services such as CT, echo and EEG. Reported professions on site include physicians, nursing, allied health, advanced practice and support services, and the hospital hosts Allopathic, Osteopathic, Dental, Podiatric and other residency programs; the workforce is equivalent to approximately 1,050 full‑time positions. Additional listed services include acute renal dialysis, pharmacy, nuclear medicine, respiratory care and a range of therapy services (physical, occupational, speech).
555 E Hardy St, INGLEWOOD, CA 90301
400 certified beds Established 1966
SERVICES
Pharmacy
Acute Renal Dialysis
Anesthesia
Clinical Laboratory
Diagnostic Radiology
Departments
Computed Tomography, Adult, EEG, Vascular, Acute, CVICU, Radiology, Telemetry, Cath Lab, ICU, Echo, Adult Inpatient Psychiatric, Open Heart / Cardiothoracic Surgery, Coronary Care Unit (CCU), Emergency Department, Inpatient Surgical, Intensive Care Unit (Medical/Surgical ICU), Neonatal Nursery, Obstetrics (OB/L&D), Outpatient Surgery, Pediatric, Psychiatric Unit, and Rehabilitation Unit
Shifts: 4 D, 8 D, 10 D, 12 D, and 12 N
Durations: 5 wks, 8 wks, 11 wks, 13 wks, 16 wks, and 26 wks
Delano Regional Medical Center
Delano Regional Medical Center is a short-term acute care hospital located at 1401 Garces Hwy in Delano, CA, near Delano Mobile Home Park and Cypress Gardens Mobile Home Community. It operates surgical and inpatient services including OR, Labor & Delivery, Long Term Acute Care, ER, medical-surgical (MS), Postpartum, Acute and Skilled Nursing departments. Clinical staff at the facility include allied health professionals and nursing personnel who support its perioperative, emergency and inpatient care services.
1401 Garces Hwy, DELANO, CA 93215
Departments
MS, Labor & Delivery, OR, ER, Long Term Acute Care, Acute, Postpartum, and Skilled Nursing
Shifts: 8 D, 8 E, 12 D, 12 E, and 12 N
Durations: 8 wks, 12 wks, and 13 wks
Desert Regional Medical Center
TJC
For-Profit
Desert Regional Medical Center is a short-term acute care hospital at 1150 North Indian Canyon Drive in Palm Springs, CA, established in 1966. The 385-bed, for-profit facility is accredited by TJC and is located near Mahoney Trailer Park and Dorado Mobile Home Park. Clinical capabilities include comprehensive imaging and procedural services (CT, MRI, PET, nuclear medicine), perioperative and endoscopy services with 10 operating rooms and 2 endoscopy rooms, three cardiac catheterization labs, acute renal dialysis and a broad mix of inpatient programs including a designated trauma center, NICU and neonatal nursery, coronary care and surgical ICUs, open heart/cardiothoracic surgery, oncology and CARF-accredited inpatient rehabilitation. The medical staff and support workforce encompass physicians, nursing, advanced practice, allied and support services, the hospital hosts multiple residency program types (Allopathic, Osteopathic, Dental, Podiatric and Other), and maintains a workforce equivalent to approximately 2,306 full-time positions.
1150 North Indian Canyon Drive, PALM SPRINGS, CA 92262
385 certified beds 10 operating rooms Established 1966
SERVICES
Pharmacy
Acute Renal Dialysis
Anesthesia
Chemotherapy
Clinical Laboratory
Departments
ER, Postpartum, Acute, Labor & Delivery, Telemetry, Vascular, Computed Tomography, ICU, MS, First Assist, Radiation, Nuclear Medicine, Cath Lab, Oncology, Radiology, CVOR, Rehab, Endoscopy, OR, PCU, Case Manager, Cardiac Catheterization Lab, Open Heart / Cardiothoracic Surgery, CARF Inpatient Rehabilitation, Coronary Care Unit (CCU), Designated Trauma Center, Emergency Department, Inpatient Surgical, Intensive Care Unit (Medical/Surgical ICU), Neonatal ICU (NICU), Neonatal Nursery, Neurosurgical, Obstetrics (OB/L&D), Ophthalmic Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery (Hospital), Outpatient Rehabilitation, Outpatient Surgery, Pediatric, Reconstructive Surgery, Surgical ICU, Psychiatric Unit, and Rehabilitation Unit
Shifts: 8 D, 8 E, 10 D, 10 E, 10 N, 12 D, 12 E, and 12 N
Durations: 8 wks, 12 wks, 13 wks, and 14 wks
Dignity Health Home and Hospice – Redding Home Health
Dignity Health Home and Hospice – Redding Home Health is a Home Health Agency located at 1544 Market St in Redding, CA, near Riverside Mobile Park and Shady Acres Trailer Park. Departments include Home Health and Acute, and the facility lists allied clinicians among its professions. As a home health agency, it provides clinical care and home-based support services delivered by allied health staff.
1544 Market St, Redding, CA 96001
Departments
Home Health and Acute
Shifts: 8 D
Durations: 13 wks
* Estimate of payments is intended for informational purposes and includes hourly wages, as well as reimbursements for meal & incidental expenses and housing expenses incurred on behalf of the Company. Please speak with a recruiter for additional details.