Occupational Therapist

Job Title: Occupational Therapist (1 Full-Time Equivalent)

Location: VA Facility

Department: Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Location: VA St. Louis Health Care System – Multiple Locations

Contract Duration: July 13, 2025 – July 12, 2030

Job Summary:

Aptive Healthcare Staffing is seeking a qualified Occupational Therapist (OT) to provide expert, patient-centered care for Veterans at a VA facility. The OT will assess, plan, and implement individualized treatment plans for patients with diverse diagnoses, including orthopedic, neurologic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, geriatric, wound care/lymphedema, and chronic pain conditions. This role includes conducting evaluations, developing and carrying out treatment programs, monitoring progress, and collaborating with the interdisciplinary team to ensure optimal outcomes.

VA Hours of Operation/Scheduling:

• Work hours are listed in Central Time (CT), and may be subject to change. The contractor will be required to furnish services during all workdays and may be asked to provide services on federal holidays.
• The shifts for this position are as follows:
• First Shift Weekdays (Monday – Friday):
• 7:30 am – 4:00 pm
• 8:00 am – 4:30 pm
• 8:30 am – 5:00 pm
• First Shift (Tuesday – Saturday):
• 7:30 am – 4:00 pm
• First Shift Weekends (Saturday – Sunday):
• 7:30 am – 4:00 pm
  

Schedule & Compensation:

• Full-time, with flexibility to accommodate patient needs and unforeseen scheduling changes.
• Competitive salary and benefits based on experience.
  
  

Primary Responsibilities

Essential Responsibilities:

• Patient Assessment & Evaluation
• Conduct independent and specialized evaluations of patients using both standardized and non-standardized tests to assess occupational therapy needs.
• Provide age-specific care tailored to the cognitive, emotional, cultural, and chronological maturation needs of each patient.
• Review patient records to gather relevant medical history and establish a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s condition and limitations.
• Treatment Plan Development & Implementation
• Develop and implement individualized, client-centered treatment plans based on patient evaluations, incorporating goals for improving functionality, independence, and quality of life.
• Select and apply appropriate therapeutic techniques for each patient to achieve the most effective treatment outcomes.
• Monitor patient progress and adjust treatment plans as necessary to ensure optimal progress toward rehabilitation goals.
• Documentation & Communication
• Document evaluations, treatment plans, progress notes, daily treatment notes, team notes, and discharge summaries in compliance with VA policies and procedures.
• Maintain clear, accurate documentation of patient education, including providing instructions for home programs to promote continued care and self-management.
• Collaborate with the healthcare team to discuss patient progress, ensuring coordinated efforts for effective care delivery.
• Patient Education & Care Coordination
• Educate patients, families, and caregivers on managing deficits, enhancing daily function, and strategies for safe and effective participation in life roles at home and in the community.
• Develop home programs for patients to maintain or improve their rehabilitation progress after discharge.
• Participate in the discharge planning process, ensuring a smooth transition for patients from inpatient therapy to their home or outpatient care.
• Compliance & Professional Development
• Adhere to all relevant VA policies and procedures, including infection control, safety regulations, and confidentiality guidelines.
• Maintain current CPR certification and stay updated on occupational therapy practices through continuous professional development and mandatory training.
• Recognize contraindications, precautions, and parameters of treatment as prescribed by referring providers, consulting with the care team when questions arise regarding patient safety or appropriateness of care.
• Caseload Management & Flexibility
• Manage a productive caseload, addressing minor and routine problems that may arise during therapy sessions.
• Ensure flexibility to accommodate changes in the schedule due to unscheduled patients or unforeseen situations.
• Assist in the day-to-day operations of the department, including supporting colleagues and participating in departmental meetings.
• Team Collaboration & Multidisciplinary Support
• Work closely with other members of the healthcare team to provide comprehensive, holistic care to patients.
• Participate in team conferences, patient care rounds, and other collaborative discussions to ensure all aspects of the patient's needs are addressed.
• Foster a positive, team-oriented work environment through effective communication and mutual support.
  
  

Minimum Qualifications

Qualifications:

• Education: Graduation from an accredited Occupational Therapy program and certification by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
• Experience: A minimum of 2 years of experience in a clinical setting, preferably in a hospital or ambulatory care environment.
• Skills & Abilities:
• Proficient in administering standardized and non-standardized evaluations to assess patient needs.
• Strong ability to develop and implement individualized treatment plans focused on patient-centered care.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams.
• Experience in documenting patient care accurately and in compliance with healthcare standards and policies.
• Ability to recognize contraindications and work closely with the care team to ensure safe and appropriate treatment.
  

Special Requirements:

• Must maintain confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA guidelines in all patient-related matters.
• Must have the ability to work independently and manage time effectively in a fast-paced, clinical environment.
• Flexible and adaptable to accommodate changes in patient scheduling and therapy needs.
  
  

Certifications:

• Current Occupational Therapy license recognized by the state of practice.
• Current CPR certification (to be renewed at least 30 days before expiration).
  
  

About Aptive

Arrow ARC supports Veterans Health Administration facilities and offices across the U.S. with health care staffing and program support via the 10-year Integrated Critical Staffing Program (ICSP). We provide staffing solutions to address critical shortages in VHA medical facilities caused by turnover, recruitment issues, seasonal needs, surges or emergencies.

Arrow is a certified Service-Disabled, Veteran-Owned Small Business joint venture between Artemis ARC and Aptive Resources, two award-winning companies that share an agile, mission-focused, results driven approach in the federal sector. Arrow provides management consulting services and specializes in working with federal government agencies like the Department of Veterans Affairs and Office of Personnel Management.

EEO Statement

Aptive is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, parental status, veteran status, age, disability, or any other protected class.

Veterans, members of the Reserve and National Guard, and transitioning active-duty service members are highly encouraged to apply.