Occupational Therapist - Job Opportunity at Presbyterian Healthcare Services

Socorro, US
Full-time
Entry-level
Posted: June 27, 2025
On-site
USD $37.29 - $56.92 per hour

Benefits

Comprehensive health insurance coverage providing medical security and financial protection against healthcare costs
Robust wellness program including free access to on-site and community-based gyms, nutrition coaching and classes, and wellness challenges that promote employee health and work-life balance
Employment with New Mexico's largest private employer offering job security and career stability
Access to a statewide healthcare network providing professional development and transfer opportunities

Key Responsibilities

Lead comprehensive patient evaluations and implement evidence-based therapeutic interventions to restore functional independence and optimize quality of life outcomes
Drive interdisciplinary collaboration and coordinate care delivery across multiple healthcare disciplines to ensure cohesive treatment approaches
Develop and oversee individualized rehabilitation programs that address complex physical, cognitive, psychosocial, and environmental factors affecting patient recovery
Champion patient advocacy and self-determination by optimizing resource utilization and empowering patients to achieve maximum independence levels
Manage discharge planning coordination and goal achievement throughout the entire episode of care to ensure successful transitions
Deliver specialized occupational therapy services across diverse clinical settings including inpatient, outpatient, long-term care, community-based, and home health environments

Requirements

Education

Bachelors degree in Occupational Therapy. Masters preferred.

Experience

Less than one year experience in occupational therapy

Required Skills

Detailed knowledge of occupational therapy principles and practices Data interpretation capabilities Basic computer skills Understanding of healthcare setting rules and regulations Knowledge of growth and development principles across the lifespan

Certifications

Occupational Therapist license-NM Regulation & Licensing Board
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Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Industry Trends

The occupational therapy field is experiencing significant growth driven by an aging population requiring rehabilitation services and increased recognition of mental health needs in healthcare settings. Healthcare systems are expanding their rehabilitation services to meet growing demand for functional restoration and independence-focused care. Healthcare organizations are increasingly adopting interdisciplinary care models that position occupational therapists as key coordinators in patient care teams, elevating the strategic importance of OT roles in treatment planning and outcomes management. Rural healthcare delivery is becoming a critical focus area as healthcare systems work to address provider shortages and access issues in underserved communities, creating opportunities for OTs to make significant community impact.

Salary Evaluation

The hourly salary range of $37.29 - $56.92 translates to approximately $77,563 - $118,394 annually for full-time work, which is competitive for entry-level occupational therapists in rural New Mexico markets and reflects the organization's position as a major regional healthcare employer.

Role Significance

Typically works within a interdisciplinary team of 5-8 healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses, physical therapists, speech therapists, and social workers, with potential supervision of occupational therapy assistants and students.
This is an entry-level professional position with significant clinical responsibility and patient care autonomy, positioned as a foundational role within the rehabilitation services department with opportunities for specialization and advancement within the healthcare system.

Key Projects

Implementation of comprehensive rehabilitation programs for post-acute care patients transitioning from hospital to community settings Development of community-based occupational therapy services to address rural healthcare access challenges Integration of wellness and prevention programs within the broader healthcare system's community health initiatives

Success Factors

Strong clinical reasoning and assessment skills to evaluate complex patient presentations across diverse age groups and conditions Excellent communication and collaboration abilities to work effectively within interdisciplinary teams and coordinate care across multiple healthcare settings Adaptability and flexibility to work across various clinical environments from acute inpatient settings to community-based programs Cultural competency and sensitivity to work effectively with New Mexico's diverse population and rural communities Professional development commitment to maintain licensure and stay current with evidence-based practice standards

Market Demand

High demand driven by demographic trends, healthcare expansion in rural markets, and increased focus on rehabilitation services as healthcare systems emphasize functional outcomes and patient independence.

Important Skills

Critical Skills

Clinical assessment and evaluation skills are fundamental to occupational therapy practice and directly impact patient outcomes, requiring strong analytical thinking and evidence-based decision making to develop effective treatment plans Interdisciplinary communication and collaboration skills are essential given the team-based care model, requiring the ability to effectively coordinate with physicians, nurses, and other therapists to ensure comprehensive patient care Cultural competency and sensitivity are crucial for working effectively with New Mexico's diverse population, including Native American communities and Hispanic populations, requiring understanding of cultural factors that influence health and rehabilitation

Beneficial Skills

Technology proficiency beyond basic computer skills, including electronic health records systems and telehealth platforms, will become increasingly important as healthcare delivery models evolve Spanish language skills would be highly valuable given New Mexico's demographics and could significantly enhance patient communication and care quality Specialization in areas such as hand therapy, pediatrics, or mental health occupational therapy could provide career differentiation and advancement opportunities within the healthcare system

Unique Aspects

Opportunity to practice across multiple clinical settings within a single healthcare system, providing diverse experience and professional development opportunities
Direct involvement in rural healthcare delivery addressing critical access needs in underserved New Mexican communities
Integration with a comprehensive healthcare system including hospitals, health plans, and medical groups offering unique insights into healthcare delivery models
Access to robust wellness programs and professional development resources within New Mexico's largest private healthcare employer

Career Growth

Progression to senior clinical roles typically occurs within 3-5 years with demonstrated competency and additional training, while advancement to supervisory or management positions generally requires 5-7 years of experience plus leadership development.

Potential Next Roles

Senior Occupational Therapist with specialized clinical expertise in areas such as hand therapy, pediatrics, or mental health Clinical Supervisor or Lead Therapist overseeing rehabilitation services delivery and staff development Program Coordinator or Manager developing and implementing specialized occupational therapy programs across the healthcare system

Company Overview

Presbyterian Healthcare Services

Presbyterian Healthcare Services is New Mexico's largest private employer and a comprehensive not-for-profit healthcare system operating nine hospitals, a statewide health plan, and multi-specialty medical group serving over 875,000 New Mexicans since 1908.

Dominant market position as the state's largest private healthcare employer with nearly 14,000 employees, providing comprehensive healthcare services across urban and rural New Mexico markets with significant influence on healthcare delivery standards and practices.
Strong rural healthcare presence through the Regional Delivery System operating six hospitals across rural New Mexico, positioning the organization as a critical healthcare access provider in underserved communities with significant community impact potential.
Mission-driven healthcare organization emphasizing community health improvement and employee wellness, with a collaborative interdisciplinary approach to patient care and strong commitment to serving diverse New Mexican communities.
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