Occupational Therapist

Occupational Therapist (OT)

Location: Boone, North Carolina | PRN | Shifts Vary

Why You'll Love Working Here

As an Occupational Therapist at UNC Health Appalachian, you'll help patients with physical, developmental, and cognitive disabilities find ways to succeed in everyday life — using critical thinking, best practice, and a holistic approach to build real independence. You'll be part of a mission-driven health system committed to patient safety, quality outcomes, teamwork, and professional growth.

Nestled in the scenic Appalachian Mountains, Boone offers the perfect blend of community, culture, and outdoor adventure.

What You'll Do as an Occupational Therapist

• Use critical thinking, problem-solving, and best practice to help patients participate in activities of daily life.
• Support patients with physical, developmental, and cognitive disabilities in achieving everyday independence.
• Modify the patient's environment and provide and educate patients and families on the use of adaptive equipment.
• Handle interactions with patients and families in an ethical manner, practicing compassion and respect for each person's dignity and worth.
• Communicate effectively with patients, families, visitors, colleagues, physicians, leadership, and volunteers.
• Respond quickly and accurately to emergencies and changes in patient condition.
• Support top-tier outcomes for patient experience, quality, and safety.
• Adhere to UNC Health Appalachian policies, regulatory requirements, and standards of behavior, practicing within the scope of your license.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree (minimum) from an accredited university in Occupational Therapy.
• Experience: Satisfactory completion of student affiliations before graduation. One year of experience preferred.
• Licensure/Certifications: Licensed or eligible for licensure as an Occupational Therapist in North Carolina. Basic Life Support (BLS) from the American Heart Association required at time of hire.
• Skills & Abilities: Strong communication skills; ability to work within the chain of command using positive verbal and non-verbal techniques. Competence in delivering safe, effective patient care within the legal limits of license, certifications, and hospital policy. Knowledge of the continuum of care provided in the department. Exceptional customer service for patients, families, staff, and physicians.

Physical & Work Environment

• Continuous standing and walking, often 8+ hours per shift; frequent bending, squatting, kneeling, twisting, turning, and reaching.
• Frequently mobilize patients and lift, carry, push, or pull 50+ lbs.
• Frequent hand, finger, and wrist repetition; near visual acuity and close eye work; speaking, reading, and writing for extended periods.
• Regular exposure to bloodborne pathogens and hazards from electrical/mechanical equipment; possible exposure to vibration and cramped spaces.
• Occasional exposure to ionizing/nonionizing radiation (x-ray, microwave); handles emergency or crisis situations.
• Subject to irregular hours (days, evenings, nights, weekends, holidays).

What Sets Us Apart

• Career Growth: Structured advancement pathways and ongoing development through our Career Pathways Program.
• Impactful Work: As an Occupational Therapist, you'll help patients regain independence and confidence in daily life, delivering care across our three community hospitals and outpatient rehabilitation services, including The Rehabilitation Center.
• Community & Lifestyle: Boone ranks among the best small towns in America, offering outdoor recreation, arts, culture, and a welcoming atmosphere.
• Inclusive Culture: UNC Health Appalachian is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring every team member feels valued and supported.

Ready to help patients rebuild independence in everyday life? Apply today to join UNC Health Appalachian and make a lasting impact on our community.