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Occupational Therapist Per Diem Jobs in California

Advance Your Career with Per Diem Occupational Therapist Jobs in California

At AMN Healthcare, we recognize the vital role that Occupational Therapists play in enhancing the quality of life for patients, and we are thrilled to offer diverse per diem job opportunities throughout California to meet the needs of Allied professionals like you. With 40 years of experience as a staffing leader, we proudly support over 10,000 healthcare workers annually, providing personalized guidance throughout your career journey. Our extensive network includes various settings such as Skilled, Acute, School, Outpatient, Inpatient Rehab, Home Health, Long Term Acute Care, Pediatrics, Hand Therapy, Pediatric Outpatient Clinics, Psychiatry, and Rehabilitation, ensuring that you can find the right fit based on your skills and preferences. Join us at AMN Healthcare to take the next step in your occupational therapy career while enjoying the flexibility that per diem work offers.

Recent Occupational Therapist Job Placements in California

AMN Healthcare has successfully placed 18 Per Diem Occupational Therapist professionals in high-demand positions across California, offering competitive pay and career-enhancing experiences. These previously filled jobs had weekly pay ranging from $343 to $8,932, with an average of $5,435, reflecting the strong earning potential for Acute Care Occupational Therapy, Hand Occupational Therapy, and Pediatric Occupational Therapy professionals. Positions were filled in top healthcare facilities such as Nexus NCA Acute and Nexus NCA Clinic, demonstrating a steady demand for skilled Occupational Therapist professionals.

By reviewing these past placements, you can get a clear picture of the types of opportunities available and the earning potential in Per Diem Occupational Therapist positions throughout California. If you’re ready to explore new assignments with top facilities and competitive pay, AMN Healthcare is here to connect you with the right job and provide expert support throughout your travel career.

Review some of the recently filled Occupational Therapist positions in California and gain insight into the pay rates and opportunities available.

  • Outpatient Occupational Therapist making $8,932 per week filled on 2/19/26
  • Hand Occupational Therapist making $8,932 per week filled on 2/19/26
  • Acute Care Occupational Therapist making $8,932 per week filled on 2/17/26

What Types of Facilities and Work Can Occupational Therapist Professionals Expect in California?

At AMN Healthcare, we connect Occupational Therapists with a diverse array of opportunities across California’s vibrant healthcare landscape. From bustling urban hospitals offering acute and inpatient rehabilitation services to serene outpatient clinics and specialized pediatric settings, OT professionals can thrive in environments that match their expertise and passion. In skilled nursing facilities, therapists play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for residents, while home health positions provide the unique opportunity to make a difference in patients’ lives within the comfort of their own homes. Whether working with individuals recovering from trauma, managing chronic conditions, or supporting children with developmental challenges, OTs can expect a rewarding career path that encompasses rehabilitation, psych, hand therapy, long term acute care, and school-based services, all tailored to meet the unique needs of California’s diverse populations.

What Are Some Reasons a Occupational Therapist Professional Should Choose a Per Diem Job in California?

As an Occupational Therapist considering a per diem position in California, you’ll find a wealth of opportunities and a vibrant lifestyle that perfectly complements your career aspirations. Enjoy a remarkable work-life balance in a state renowned for its diverse environments—from the stunning beaches of San Diego to the bustling culture of San Francisco. With a Mediterranean climate that boasts mild winters and warm summers, California allows you to indulge in outdoor activities year-round, be it hiking in the majestic Sierras or sunbathing on the picturesque shores of the Pacific. Major cities such as Los Angeles, Sacramento, and San Jose not only provide a thriving professional landscape for healthcare practitioners but also a rich tapestry of arts, entertainment, and culinary experiences to explore during your downtime. Whether you seek vibrant urban life, serene suburban communities, or enchanting coastal living, a per diem role in California offers you flexibility, competitive compensation, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in diverse settings like schools, outpatient clinics, and rehabs—all while enjoying the unparalleled Californian lifestyle.

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Understanding Per Diem Occupational Therapist Job Trends in California

In today’s competitive healthcare landscape, staying informed about job market trends is essential, especially for those pursuing per diem Occupational Therapist positions in California. The data presented below provides valuable insights into the evolving pay trends over the last three months, as well as a comprehensive look at the average, minimum, and maximum compensation for these roles over the past year. Understanding these fluctuations can help you make informed career decisions and negotiate your worth effectively.

Additionally, the statistics shed light on the various healthcare facilities across the U.S. offering skilled, acute, and school therapy positions. By analyzing this information, you can gain a better grasp of where the hottest job opportunities lie and which types of environments align with your career aspirations. We encourage you to explore these insights carefully and use them to navigate your professional journey with confidence.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Per Diem Occupational Therapist Jobs near California

What is the average pay for a Per Diem Occupational Therapist job in California?

The average weekly pay for a Per Diem Occupational Therapist job in California is $5,435, based on 18 jobs as of October 22, 2026.

What types of experience are most commonly required for a Per Diem Occupational Therapist job in California?

Most per diem Occupational Therapist positions in California typically require a valid state license and experience in clinical settings, particularly in rehabilitation or acute care environments. Additionally, employers often seek candidates with strong communication skills and the ability to work independently in fast-paced situations.

What types of job opportunities are typically available for Occupational Therapist Per Diem positions in California?

Occupational Therapist opportunities in California encompass Permanent, Strike, and Travel positions. These roles offer adaptable work arrangements, allowing professionals to choose options that align with their career goals, lifestyle, and level of experience.

What types of healthcare facilities in California typically offer Per Diem positions for Occupational Therapist professionals?

In California, per diem positions for Occupational Therapist professionals are commonly found in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and skilled nursing facilities. Additionally, outpatient clinics and home health agencies also frequently seek part-time therapists to meet fluctuating patient needs.

What types of specialties are common for an Occupational Therapist professional working a Per Diem job in California?

Common specialties for Occupational Therapists working per diem jobs in California include pediatrics, geriatrics, and rehabilitation for individuals recovering from surgery or injury. Many also focus on mental health, helping patients develop coping strategies and life skills. Additionally, there is a growing demand for therapists proficient in assistive technology and home modifications. These specialties allow for flexible practice settings and the ability to cater to diverse patient needs.

What are some keys reasons a Per Diem Occupational Therapist professional might consider seeking a Skilled, Acute, and School job in California?

A per diem Occupational Therapist might consider seeking a Skilled, Acute, and School job in California for the diverse range of clinical experiences and the opportunity to work with various patient populations. Additionally, California’s competitive pay and high demand for healthcare professionals can provide financial incentives and career growth prospects.

What are some most popular cities in California a Per Diem Occupational Therapist professionals would prefer to work and live?

Some of the most popular cities in California for per diem Occupational Therapists and allied professionals include Los Angeles for its diverse opportunities, San Francisco for its vibrant culture and high demand for healthcare services, and San Diego for its appealing climate and quality of life. These cities offer a combination of professional growth, community resources, and lifestyle amenities that make them attractive to healthcare workers. Ultimately, the choice often depends on personal preferences regarding lifestyle, career opportunities, and social environments.

What important factors should a Per Diem Occupational Therapist professional consider when evaluating a new position in Skilled, Acute, and School in California?

When evaluating a new position in California, per diem Occupational Therapist professionals should consider the compensation structure, including pay rates and benefits such as health insurance and retirement options. Additionally, they should assess the work environment and support from colleagues, ensuring it aligns with their professional values and goals. Lastly, understanding the availability of hours and flexibility to manage their schedule effectively is crucial for maintaining a work-life balance.

Which California Cities Offer Job Opportunities for Occupational Therapist Professionals?

California boasts a diverse array of cities offering exciting opportunities for Occupational Therapists specializing in Skilled, Acute, and School settings. From the sunny beaches of San Diego to the vibrant culture of Sacramento, professionals can find rewarding roles while enjoying a unique lifestyle in each location. Let’s explore some of these enticing cities that are currently hiring Occupational Therapists, highlighting their job prospects and overall living experience.

San Diego stands out for its stunning coastline and mild climate, making it a popular choice for health professionals. Occupational Therapists in San Diego can expect competitive salaries ranging between $75,000 to $95,000 annually, depending on experience and area of specialization. The cost of living is relatively high, with housing averaging around $2,800 for a two-bedroom apartment. However, the city’s picturesque beaches, vibrant cultural scene, and extensive outdoor activities, including hiking in nearby state parks and enjoying local cuisine in Gaslamp Quarter, more than make up for the expenses.

Sacramento, California’s state capital, offers a thriving job market for Occupational Therapists with salaries ranging from $70,000 to $90,000. The cost of living is more manageable than in coastal cities, averaging about $2,200 for a two-bedroom apartment. Sacramento boasts a warm Mediterranean climate alongside a rich history and robust arts scene, making it an enjoyable place to live and work. The proximity to both the Sierra Nevada mountains and the Bay Area provides a diverse range of recreational opportunities, from winter sports to weekend getaways, ensuring a balanced lifestyle.

In the bustling city of Los Angeles, Occupational Therapists can find numerous job openings with salaries typically between $80,000 and $100,000. However, the cost of living is significantly higher than the national average, with housing costs around $3,200 for a two-bedroom apartment. Los Angeles is renowned for its vibrant entertainment industry and cultural diversity, with endless options for dining, shopping, and outdoor activities such as hiking in Griffith Park or soaking up the sun on Venice Beach. The city’s dynamic atmosphere and ample professional opportunities make it a top destination for therapists seeking a fast-paced work environment.

Ventura combines stunning coastal views with a laid-back atmosphere, making it a gem for Occupational Therapists looking for a more relaxed lifestyle. Salaries for therapists range from $75,000 to $90,000, while the cost of living is relatively affordable at approximately $2,400 for a two-bedroom apartment. With a pleasant climate and outdoor activities such as surfing, hiking, and exploring local farmers’ markets, Ventura offers a balance of professional satisfaction and personal wellbeing. Its proximity to both Los Angeles and Santa Barbara allows for easy access to even more entertainment and cultural experiences.

Finally, the charming community of San Jose, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, provides excellent job opportunities for Occupational Therapists with salaries ranging from $85,000 to $105,000. Although the cost of living is on the higher side, averaging $3,000 for a two-bedroom apartment, the city’s innovative spirit and access to cutting-edge healthcare facilities make it an exciting place to work. With a Mediterranean climate, beautiful parks, and a thriving tech scene, San Jose offers a dynamic lifestyle filled with cultural events, outdoor pursuits, and an engaging community. Overall, these cities present unique opportunities for Occupational Therapists looking to advance their careers while enjoying the best of California living.

Discover Healthcare Facilities in California That Hire Occupational Therapist Professionals

AMN Healthcare proudly partners with California’s renowned healthcare facilities that have a strong history of hiring Occupational Therapist allied professionals for per diem positions across Skilled, Acute, and School settings. These facilities not only provide rewarding work opportunities but also foster an environment for occupational therapists seeking to advance their careers and make a meaningful impact in the community.

Accent Care- San Ramon, CA
Accent Care- San Ramon, CA is a home health agency located at 3170 Crow Canyon Pl in San Ramon, CA, with a Home Health department and allied clinicians on staff. As a home health agency utilizing allied health professionals, it delivers the at-home skilled care and therapy services typically associated with this type of facility.
3170 Crow Canyon Pl, Suite 270, SAN RAMON, CA 94583
Departments
Home Health
Shifts: 8 D
Durations: 13 wks and 15 wks
AccentCare: Petaluma – MSP
AccentCare: Petaluma – MSP is a home health agency located at 140 Second Street in Petaluma, CA, near Crown and East Petaluma, and operates a Home Health department. The facility employs nursing and allied professionals and, as a home health agency, delivers skilled nursing and allied health services in patients’ residences.
140 Second Street, Suite 320, PETALUMA, CA 94952
Departments
Home Health
Shifts: 8 D
Durations: 13 wks and 26 wks
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
OR, Radiology, Labor & Delivery, Adult, Case Manager, Mammography, Laboratory, ER, Home Health, Outpatient, Acute, MS, PACU, Computed Tomography, ICU, Polysomnography, and Occupational 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 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
ICU, PACU, First Assist, CVOR, OR, Case Manager, Outpatient, Nurse Manager, MS, Inpatient Rehab, Vascular, Computed Tomography, Diagnostic, Radiation, Cath Lab, Radiology, Postpartum, Labor & Delivery, CVICU, Acute, Director of Nursing, Long Term Acute Care, Mammography, Echo, Home Health, Adult, ER, Telemetry, NICU, Retail, Oncology, 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 Sonora
TJC
Non-Profit
Adventist Health Sonora, located at 1000 Greenley Rd. in Sonora, CA near Sonora Knolls, is a non-profit short-term acute care hospital established in 1966 and accredited by TJC. The facility has 143 beds and a workforce equivalent to approximately 471 full-time positions. Clinical capabilities include emergency services, multiple critical care units (ICU, medical/surgical ICU, PCU, CCU), telemetry and coronary services, a cath lab and operating rooms with outpatient surgery and inpatient surgical care, labor & delivery/obstetrics and pediatrics, dialysis and hospice, plus comprehensive imaging (CT, PET, nuclear medicine, diagnostic radiology) and ancillary services such as pharmacy, laboratory, respiratory care, rehabilitation therapies and social services. Employed professions span nursing, allied health, support services, physicians and advanced practice providers, and the facility hosts residency programs in allopathic, osteopathic, dental, podiatric and other disciplines.
1000 Greenley Rd., SONORA, CA 95370
143 certified beds Established 1966
SERVICES
Pharmacy
Audiology
Clinical Laboratory
Diagnostic Radiology
Dietary
Departments
MS, Cath Lab, OR, ICU, Positron Emission Tomography, Radiology, Echo, First Assist, Case Manager, Dialysis, Labor & Delivery, Sterile Processor, ER, Home Health, Outpatient, Telemetry, Diagnostic, Nuclear Medicine, Hospice, Computed Tomography, Adult, PCU, Coronary Care Unit (CCU), Inpatient Surgical, Intensive Care Unit (Medical/Surgical ICU), Obstetrics (OB/L&D), 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: 4 wks, 6 wks, 9 wks, 12 wks, and 13 wks
Aegis: Bellaken Garden and Skilled Nursing Center (T)
Aegis: Bellaken Garden and Skilled Nursing Center (T) is a skilled nursing facility at 2780 26th Avenue in Oakland, CA, near Highland Park and the Dimond District. The facility lists a Skilled department and employs allied health clinicians. Skilled nursing facilities typically provide post-acute and long-term nursing and rehabilitative care delivered by licensed nursing staff and allied clinicians.
2780 26th Avenue, OAKLAND, CA 94601
Departments
Skilled
Shifts: 8 D
Durations: 1 wks, 4 wks, 9 wks, 10 wks, 11 wks, 12 wks, 13 wks, 16 wks, 18 wks, 24 wks, 25 wks, and 26 wks
Antioch Unified School District
Antioch Unified School District is a school located at 510 G Street, Antioch, CA. It lists a School department and reports allied professions among its staff. In school settings, allied clinicians typically provide student health support and related rehabilitative or therapeutic services such as speech, occupational or physical therapy and health screenings.
510 G Street, PO Box 768, ANTIOCH, CA 94509
Departments
School
Shifts: 8 D
Durations: 11 wks, 12 wks, 13 wks, 20 wks, 41 wks, 43 wks, and 44 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
Autism Academy – Antelope Valley
Autism Academy – Antelope Valley is a School located at 6742 East Avenue H in Lancaster, CA, with a School department on site and allied health professions listed among its staff. As a school, this type of facility typically organizes educational programming and supports that are delivered or assisted by allied health clinicians.
6742 East Avenue H Lancaster, LANCASTER, CA 93535
Departments
School
Shifts: 6 D
Durations: 12 wks, 30 wks, 38 wks, and 42 wks
Avalon Health Care San Andreas
Avalon Health Care San Andreas is a skilled nursing facility located at 900 Mountain Ranch Road in San Andreas, CA, with a Skilled department and allied health professionals on staff. As a skilled nursing facility, it provides post-acute and long-term clinical care services delivered by nursing and allied clinicians, including therapy and rehabilitation support common to this facility type.
900 Mountain Ranch Road, SAN ANDREAS, CA 95249
Departments
Skilled
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.