Orthotist/Prosthetist

Overview The primary purpose of this position is to serve as an Orthotist‑Prosthetist in the Orthotic‑Prosthetic Laboratory Section of the Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service at the Eastern Oklahoma VA Health Care System. The role involves providing custom‑designed, fabricated, modified, and fitted orthoses and prostheses, and conducting assessments and services to meet the unique needs of disabled patients based on the physician's prescription. Application Period This is an open continuous announcement and will remain open until September 30, 2026. The initial cut‑off date for referral of eligible applications is May 1, 2026; subsequent cut‑off dates occur every other Friday. Eligible applications received after the initial cut‑off will be referred at regular intervals or as additional vacancies occur until positions are filled. Basic Requirements United States citizenship. Non‑citizens may be appointed only if qualified citizens cannot be recruited in accordance with VA policy. Education: (1) a bachelor’s degree or higher in orthotics and prosthetics from a CAAHEP‑accredited program, or (2) a bachelor’s degree or higher in any major plus a post‑graduate orthotics or prosthetics certificate from a CAAHEP‑accredited program. Foreign graduates must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (or foreign equivalent) with a specialization in orthotics and prosthetics. Board certification by the American Board for Certification in Orthotics and Prosthetics (ABC) or the Board for Orthotist/Prosthetist Certification (BOC). Board certificate must be current, and the applicant must comply with the certifying body's continuing‑education requirements. Proficiency in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d). Grade and Experience Requirements Position classified at Farm Performance Level GS‑11. One year of experience as an orthotist‑prosthetist at the GS‑11 level or equivalent, demonstrating the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to provide orthotic and prosthetic services in a hospital setting. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Ability to attend clinics and participate as a fully engaged member of the treatment team with significant influence in treatment planning. Advanced knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, kinesiology, physics, disease etiology, psychology, and age‑related competencies. Capability to conduct clinical patient analyses (gait, range of motion, lifestyle, etc.) for patients with complex medical conditions, and to design innovative devices to accommodate these conditions. Ability to recognize physical abnormalities, deviations, and complicating conditions with potentially life‑threatening implications. Physical Requirements Perform heavy lifting and carrying of 45 lb or more, straight pulling for up to 1 hour, pushing for 1–2 hours, and reaching above the shoulder. Use both hands and fingers for device fabrication and fitting. Walk and stand for up to 3 hours each session. Repeated bending for up to 1 hour and rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously. Near vision correctable at a distance of 13–16 inches; hearing aids are acceptable. Duties Conduct assessments to understand orthotic/prosthetic needs by reviewing prescriptions, referrals, medical history, functional status, and prior device use. Consult with physicians, therapists, caregivers, and senior O/P staff to clarify prescriptions and ensure appropriate device selection. Identify suitable materials, components, and designs consistent with the treatment plan and expected outcomes. Communicate with patients to explain procedures, obtain cooperation, reduce anxiety, and provide education on device use and care. Document patient history, progress, and follow‑up using established record‑keeping procedures and organizational guidelines. Take accurate measurements for fabrication and fitting of orthoses and prostheses for common disability levels (spinal, upper extremity, lower extremity, transtibial, transfemoral). Prepare molds, tracings, impressions, and digital or physical models used in fabrication. Fabricate, assemble, and align orthotic and prosthetic components of limited to moderate complexity following professional standards and manufacturer specifications. Select and prepare materials to ensure durability, structural safety, and proper function. Perform preliminary alignment and fitting, adjusting devices to improve comfort, function, and stability. Evaluate fit and mechanical relationships to determine whether modifications are necessary. Make device adjustments such as pressure relief, alignment changes, component changes, and range‑of‑motion modifications. Ensure all fabrication guidelines, safety standards, torque requirements, and manufacturer recommendations are followed. Provide patient preparation and instruction for device delivery, wear schedules, maintenance, and safe use. Conduct static and dynamic evaluations to confirm devices meet clinical goals and prescription objectives. Solicit patient and caregiver feedback to evaluate comfort, function, and satisfaction, adjusting devices as needed. Maintain accurate patient records consistent with Medical Center, NISN, JCAHO, ABC, and BOC requirements. Follow all policies and procedures related to patient privacy, safety, infection control, and ethical practice. Demonstrate proper documentation of patient treatment, communication, and billing information. Work collaboratively with colleagues to support coordinated, professional patient care. Develop clinical and technical competency through supervised practice and training in essential tasks such as measurement, patient communication, and basic appliance fitting. Participate in manufacturer trainings, professional seminars, continuing education, and skills development to maintain competency and learn new technologies. Complete all required hospital and regulatory training. Participate in in‑service programs, case discussions, product development, outcome evaluation, and related professional activities. Engage with professional organizations, consumer groups, and educational programs to support advancement of the orthotic/prosthetic profession. Perform other duties as assigned depending on grade level. Venue and Schedule Work location: Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center, 1011 Honor Heights Drive, Muskogee, OK 74401. Work schedule: Full‑time, Monday‑Friday, 8:00 am–4:30 pm. Telework and virtual work are not available. Functional Statement Numbers 623‑53742‑A, 623‑53743‑A, 623‑53744‑A, 623‑53745‑A. #J-18808-Ljbffr