Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) - Skilled Nursing - PRN at Sanford Health in Rapid City, South Dakota

Role Overview

As an Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) at Sanford Health in Rapid City, South Dakota, you will play a vital role in helping patients regain their independence and improve their quality of life. Working under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist, you will assist patients in skilled nursing facilities with therapeutic activities and exercises designed to enhance their ability to perform daily tasks. This PRN (as needed) position offers a flexible schedule and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Sanford Health is committed to providing exceptional patient care and fostering a supportive work environment for its employees. As a member of the Sanford Family, you will have access to numerous development and advancement opportunities, allowing you to grow both personally and professionally.

A Day in the Life of an Occupational Therapy Assistant

Your day as a COTA may involve: * Assisting patients with a variety of therapeutic exercises to improve strength, coordination, and range of motion. * Instructing patients on the proper use of adaptive equipment and assistive devices. * Helping patients practice activities of daily living (ADLs) such as dressing, bathing, and eating. * Monitoring patient progress and reporting observations to the Occupational Therapist. * Documenting patient care services accurately and efficiently. * Collaborating with the Occupational Therapist to develop and implement individualized treatment plans. * Providing education and support to patients and their families. * Maintaining a clean and organized therapy environment. * Participating in team meetings and contributing to patient care discussions. Each day brings new challenges and rewards as you help patients overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. You will work closely with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive and compassionate care.

Why Rapid City, South Dakota?

Rapid City is a vibrant city located in the heart of the Black Hills. Known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, Rapid City offers a high quality of life for residents of all ages. The Black Hills region is home to iconic landmarks such as Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park. Residents enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, camping, and skiing, as well as numerous cultural attractions and events. Rapid City also boasts a thriving arts and entertainment scene, with live music venues, art galleries, and theaters. The city has a diverse culinary scene, with restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. With its affordable cost of living, excellent schools, and friendly community, Rapid City is an ideal place to live, work, and raise a family.

Career Path for Occupational Therapy Assistants

Sanford Health is committed to supporting the professional growth and development of its employees. As a COTA, you may have opportunities to advance your career in a variety of ways. Some potential career paths include: * **Senior Occupational Therapy Assistant:** With experience and advanced training, you may be able to take on additional responsibilities and mentor other COTAs. * **Occupational Therapist:** By pursuing further education and obtaining a Master's degree in Occupational Therapy, you can become a licensed Occupational Therapist. * **Rehabilitation Manager:** With leadership skills and experience, you may be able to move into a management role overseeing rehabilitation services. * **Clinical Specialist:** By specializing in a particular area of occupational therapy, such as hand therapy or neurological rehabilitation, you can become a clinical specialist. Sanford Health offers tuition assistance and professional development programs to help employees achieve their career goals. ## Salary and Benefits The salary range for this position is $24.00 - $38.50 per hour, commensurate with experience. In addition to competitive pay, Sanford Health offers a comprehensive benefits package, including: * Health insurance (medical, dental, vision) * Paid time off (PTO) * Retirement savings plan with employer matching * Life insurance and disability coverage * Flexible spending accounts (FSA) and health savings accounts (HSA) * Employee assistance program (EAP) * Tuition assistance * Employee discounts * Wellness programs Sanford Health is committed to providing its employees with a comprehensive and competitive compensation package. ## Sanford Health Culture Sanford Health is a values-based organization committed to: * **Integrity:** We act with honesty and transparency in all that we do. * **Excellence:** We strive for the highest standards of quality and safety. * **Respect:** We treat each other with dignity and compassion. * **Innovation:** We embrace new ideas and technologies to improve patient care. * **Stewardship:** We are responsible stewards of our resources. Sanford Health fosters a culture of teamwork, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Employees are encouraged to share their ideas and contribute to the success of the organization. ## How to Apply To apply for the Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) position at Sanford Health in Rapid City, South Dakota, please visit our online career portal at [Sanford Health Careers Website]. Follow the instructions to create an account and submit your application. Be sure to include a resume and cover letter highlighting your qualifications and experience. Sanford Health is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. ## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) **1. What are the qualifications for this position?** *Answer:* You must be licensed as an Occupational Therapy Assistant in the state of South Dakota and have the appropriate education level required by state licensure. Certification as an Occupational Therapy Assistant through the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) is preferred. **2. What are the responsibilities of an Occupational Therapy Assistant?** *Answer:* As an Occupational Therapy Assistant, you will assist patients with therapy activities and exercises, monitor their progress, and document their care. You will work under the supervision of an Occupational Therapist to implement individualized treatment plans. **3. What is the work schedule for this PRN position?** *Answer:* This is a PRN (as needed) position, so the work schedule will vary depending on the needs of the facility. You may be asked to work days, evenings, or weekends. **4. What is the salary range for this position?** *Answer:* The salary range for this position is $24.00 - $38.50 per hour, commensurate with experience. **5. What benefits does Sanford Health offer?** *Answer:* Sanford Health offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, retirement savings plan, and tuition assistance. **6. What is the culture like at Sanford Health?** *Answer:* Sanford Health fosters a culture of teamwork, collaboration, and continuous improvement. We are committed to providing exceptional patient care and supporting the professional growth of our employees. **7. How do I apply for this position?** *Answer:* To apply, please visit our online career portal at [Sanford Health Careers Website] and submit your application. **8. Is this position eligible for relocation assistance?** *Answer:* Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates. Please inquire with the hiring manager for more information. **9. What is the dress code for this position?** *Answer:* The dress code is professional and appropriate for a healthcare setting. Specific guidelines will be provided during the onboarding process. **10. Who can I contact if I have questions about this position?** *Answer:* You can contact the Sanford Health Talent Acquisition team at talent@sanfordhealth.org or 1-877-673-0854.