Job SummaryProvides services to patients who have impairments, developmental disabilities, functional limitations, disabilities, or changes in physical function and health status resulting from injury, disease or other causes under the direction of an Occupational Therapist. Actively collaborates with the health care/educational team to meet patient care, outcomes and system improvement objectives.About the RoleVanderbilt Health is seeking a Licensed Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to join our Inpatient Acute Care Rehabilitation Team at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee.This hospital-based role offers an exceptional opportunity for Occupational Therapy Assistants seeking extensive clinical exposure and hands‑on experience within a nationally recognized academic medical center. OTAs in this role provide evidence-based occupational therapy services to adult patients with a wide range of medical and surgical diagnoses, supporting functional recovery, independence with activities of daily living, and safe discharge planning.New team members participate in a comprehensive, structured orientation program lasting approximately 12 weeks. This extensive onboarding experience is designed to support confidence, skill development, and gradual independence while allowing exposure to multiple service lines across Vanderbilt University Hospital. OTAs work alongside experienced Occupational Therapists.Occupational Therapy Assistants in this role provide care across all inpatient units, including high‑acuity and specialty populations. Patient care areas include the Neuro ICU, Medical ICU, Cardiovascular ICU, Burn ICU, Surgical ICU, Trauma ICU, Women's Health and Obstetrics units, and the Emergency Department.This position is ideal for an Occupational Therapy Assistant with acute care or inpatient experience who is motivated to deepen clinical skills, broaden hospital‑based experience, and contribute meaningfully to patient recovery during critical phases of care.Schedule: Full‑Time, Monday‑Friday, with the equivalent of one weekend day per month.How You'll Make a DifferenceDeliver occupational therapy interventions in an inpatient acute care settingSupport patients with activities of daily living, mobility, and functional performancePromote safe transitions to home, community, or post‑acute care settingsContribute to high‑quality, patient‑centered outcomesKey ResponsibilitiesImplement individualized occupational therapy treatment plansProvide therapeutic interventions to support functional independenceEducate patients and families on safety, recovery, and carryover strategiesDocument patient progress, outcomes, and recommendations in the medical recordCollaborate with physicians, nurses, case managers, and rehabilitation team membersWhat We're Looking ForLicensed Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) with active Tennessee licensureAcute care or inpatient experience requiredStrong communication, time management, and documentation skillsCommitment to patient education, safety, and quality careAbility to work effectively in a multidisciplinary hospital environmentClinical and Technical SkillsPatient and family education tailored to individual learning needsDelivery and modification of evidence‑based occupational therapy interventionsAccurate and timely clinical documentation with interdisciplinary collaborationBenefitsPractice at a nationally recognized academic medical centerDay One benefits including medical, dental, vision, and retirement programsSupportive and collaborative inpatient rehabilitation team cultureAccess to professional development and continuing educationMeaningful work at critical stages of patient recoveryPosition QualificationsLicensure: Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) – TennesseeExperience: 1+ years in inpatient or acute careEducation: Associate's degree in Occupational Therapy Assistant or equivalentVanderbilt Health is committed to fostering an environment where everyone has the chance to thrive and is committed to the principles of equal opportunity. EOE/Vets/Disabled.#J-18808-Ljbffr