Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) - Skilled Nursing at Sanford Health in Wagner, SD

Are you a passionate and dedicated Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) looking to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others? Sanford Health in Wagner, South Dakota, is seeking a skilled COTA to join our dedicated therapy team in a newly renovated skilled nursing facility. This is an excellent opportunity to work in a collaborative environment and contribute to the well-being of our patients. This is a 32-hour a week position.

Role Overview

As a COTA at Sanford Health, you will play a vital role in assisting patients with therapy activities and exercises under the supervision of an occupational therapist. Your primary focus will be to improve patients' quality of life and their ability to perform daily activities. You will work with patients who have physical, cognitive, developmental, and psychosocial impairments, providing them with the support and guidance they need to regain their independence.

A Day in the Life of a COTA

Here’s what a typical day might look like for a COTA at Sanford Health:

• Patient Interaction: Spend the majority of your day working directly with patients, guiding them through therapeutic exercises and activities.
• Treatment Implementation: Implement and modify therapeutic activities and interventions based on the patient's goals and the occupational therapist's recommendations.
• Documentation: Accurately document patient progress and responses to interventions, providing valuable information to the occupational therapist.
• Collaboration: Collaborate with the therapy team, including occupational therapists, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals, to ensure comprehensive patient care.
• Environment Maintenance: Maintain a safe and clean therapy environment for patients and staff.

Why Wagner, South Dakota?

Wagner is a charming community in southeastern South Dakota, offering a peaceful and friendly environment. Located near the beautiful Missouri River, Wagner provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including fishing, hunting, and boating. The community is known for its strong sense of community and excellent schools, making it a great place to raise a family. Wagner offers a lower cost of living compared to larger cities, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle. Living in Wagner provides a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the Great Plains and enjoy a close-knit community atmosphere.

Career Path for COTAs

Sanford Health is committed to the growth and development of its employees. As a COTA, you will have opportunities to advance your career through continuing education, mentorship programs, and leadership development initiatives. Potential career paths for COTAs at Sanford Health include:

• Senior COTA: Take on additional responsibilities and mentor other COTAs.
• Clinical Specialist: Develop expertise in a specific area of occupational therapy, such as geriatrics or neurological rehabilitation.
• Rehabilitation Manager: Oversee the operations of a rehabilitation department or clinic.

Salary and Benefits

Sanford Health offers a competitive salary and benefits package for COTAs. The salary range for this position is estimated to be between $48,000 and $77,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. Sanford Health offers an exceptional benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance; retirement savings plan; paid time off; and more. Furthermore, this position is eligible for a $10,000 sign-on bonus (eligibility requirements apply)!

Sanford Health Culture

Sanford Health is dedicated to the work of health and healing. We are proud to offer many development and advancement opportunities to our nearly 50,000 members of the Sanford Family who are dedicated to the work of health and healing across our broad footprint. At Sanford Health, we believe in creating a supportive and inclusive work environment where every employee feels valued and respected. We are committed to providing our employees with the resources and opportunities they need to grow and succeed. We also value teamwork and collaboration, encouraging employees to work together to achieve common goals.

How to Apply

To apply for the Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) position at Sanford Health in Wagner, SD, please submit your application online through the Sanford Health careers website. Be sure to include your resume and cover letter, highlighting your relevant experience and qualifications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the requirements for this position?
   You must be licensed as an Occupational Therapy Assistant in the state of South Dakota. Certification through the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) is preferred for GSS Facilities. Basic Life Support (BLS) certification is required within six months of employment.
2. What is the work schedule for this position?
   This is a 32-hour per week position during the day shift.
3. Is this a union position?
   No, this is not a union position.
4. What are the opportunities for professional development?
   Sanford Health offers various opportunities for professional development, including continuing education, mentorship programs, and leadership development initiatives.
5. What is the sign-on bonus for this position?
   This position is eligible for a $10,000 sign-on bonus (eligibility requirements apply).
6. What type of patients will I be working with?
   You will be working with patients receiving intervention in the skilled nursing facility.
7. What is the work environment like?
   The work environment is collaborative and supportive, with a dedicated therapy team in a newly renovated skilled nursing facility.
8. What is the dress code?
   The dress code is professional and appropriate for a healthcare setting.
9. How does Sanford Health support employees with disabilities?
   Sanford Health provides accommodations for individuals with disabilities. Please call 1-877-673-0854 or email talent@sanfordhealth.org for assistance.
10. What is Sanford Health's commitment to diversity and inclusion?
    Sanford Health is an EEO/AA Employer M/F/Disability/Vet and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment.