Occupational Therapist- Inpatient Acute Brain Injury

Shepherd Center; Atlanta (GA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Shepherd Center is seeking an Occupational Therapist for the Inpatient Acute Brain Injury unit. This entry-level, full-time role involves developing treatment plans, collaborating with healthcare teams, and supporting patient recovery. Ideal candidates will have a degree in occupational therapy, BLS certification, and a commitment to professional growth.

Qualifications

• Degree in occupational therapy required.
• BLS certification necessary.
• Georgia licensure or telehealth state licensure required.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans.
• Communicate effectively within multidisciplinary teams.
• Assist patients in developing daily activity skills.

Skills

Time management

Organization

Critical thinking

Communication

Education

Degree from an accredited occupational therapy program

BLS certification

Licensed to practice in Georgia

Job description

Occupational Therapist- Inpatient Acute Brain Injury

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About Shepherd Center

With five decades of experience, Shepherd Center provides world-class clinical care, research, and family support for people experiencing the most complex conditions, including spinal cord and brain injuries, multi-trauma, traumatic amputations, stroke, multiple sclerosis, and pain. Recognized as one of the top hospitals for rehabilitation by U.S. News, Shepherd Center is also a designated Spinal Cord Injury and Traumatic Brain Injury Model System. It uniquely offers an on-site intensive care unit, enabling early intervention for complex patients. The center treats thousands annually with unmatched expertise and compassion.

Our culture emphasizes hope, humor, and hard work, fostering career growth, strong relationships, leadership support, and staff retention, with over 12% of staff working more than 20 years.

Job Responsibilities

• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans to improve patient’s functional skills, with periodic reassessment and adjustments.
• Communicate effectively and collaborate within multidisciplinary teams.
• Uphold professional behaviors and standards.
• Assist patients in developing, regaining, or maintaining daily activity skills.
• Design and deliver patient and family training for proper care.
• Recommend specialty services or consultations as needed.
• Use evaluation findings for discharge planning and care transitions.
• Participate in staff meetings, committees, and educational programs, including supervision of students.
• Engage in research activities as required.
• Complete documentation accurately and timely per guidelines.
• Provide skilled interventions per AOTA standards.
• Serve diverse populations, continuously developing clinical skills.
• Participate in team conferences and facilitate patient goal setting using Goal Attainment Scaling.
• Communicate with patients and families to build rapport, review plans, and coordinate care.
• Make appropriate recommendations for DME and ensure safe patient transitions.
• Document thoroughly and clearly, adhering to policies.
• Utilize resources and technology creatively to enhance patient experience.
• Follow safety protocols and report incidents or hazards promptly.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory and organizational standards.
• Identify and support resolution of potential risks within the area of responsibility.

Minimum Education & Certifications

• Degree from an accredited occupational therapy program.
• BLS certification.
• Licensed to practice in Georgia (or in the state of residence for telehealth).

Experience & Skills

• No specific minimum experience required; preferred two years recent clinical experience.
• Basic computer skills.
• Knowledge of development and patient needs across age groups.
• Time management, organization, critical thinking, and communication skills.
• Commitment to professional growth and competency development.

Physical Demands & Working Conditions

• Ability to safely transfer and position patients, lifting up to 30 lbs.
• Work involves some exposure to blood, body fluids, and infectious agents.
• Normal patient care environment with potential community exposure.

Additional Details

• Entry-level position, full-time employment.
• Healthcare provider role within hospitals, non-profits, and government sectors.