Occupational Therapist SL
Company : Reliant Rehabilitation
Location : San Diego, CA, 92115
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 12 January 2026
Overview
#LI-AS1Summary:
Provide Occupational Therapy and related services for patients while maintaining positive levels of interaction with communities and clients in accordance with the principles and practices of occupational therapy and within Reliant Rehabilitation guidelines. Provide quality patient care including: screening and evaluation of patients, development of initial and ongoing treatment plans of care, discharge plan, supervision of assistants and rehab techs, and case management responsibilities. Maintain professional conduct that represents Reliant Rehabilitation’s commitment to quality and service in all interactions with clients, including positive levels of interaction and rapport with communities and clients. Adhere to all state and federal regulations regarding occupational therapy.
Responsibilities
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Optimize the functionality and skills of patients by providing, directing, and/or overseeing occupational therapy in the following:
- Refer patients for treatment to Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTA) throughout the cluster.
- Provide consultation and clinical supervision to COTA’s throughout the cluster.
- Maintain availability to answer questions from COTA’s.
- Directly supervise COTAs and Rehab Techs in skilled tasks during group and individual treatment in a manner that promotes efficient and effective utilization of resources and facilitates the ongoing development of clinical skills in accordance with State Practice Acts, Omnibus Reconciliation Act (OBRA), and Reliant Rehabilitation policy.
- Build a strong occupational therapy program by participating in the following activities:
- actively integrating occupational therapy’s role into community and interdisciplinary treatment team;
- contributing to community patient care, utilization review, case management, administrative staff/department head, and family conference activities and communications;
- establishing and maintaining a good working relationship with other health care professionals and colleagues in the community;
- making appropriate referrals to other members of the rehabilitation team,
- developing and implementing new programs/techniques to enhance rehabilitation services;
- adhering to Reliant Rehabilitation and client specific policies and procedures related to environmental safety, orderliness, risk management, infection control, and emergency preparedness; and
- adhering to the requirements of the patient’s rights and privacy.
- Enhance clinical expertise, professional and management skills through interaction with managers, therapists and other professional staff, self-study, and other continuing education activities.
- Maintain valid state license (where appropriate). Maintain awareness of issues related to the profession of occupational therapy and the health care environment.
- Understands various relevant payment models related to billing and treatment guidelines, as well as clinically appropriate means/modes of delivery. Provide quality care as well as reasonable goals and outcomes within the guidelines.
- Be compliant with infection control procedures and environmental safety protocol within a community.
- This position requires patient lifting using appropriate biomechanical techniques frequently throughout the course of a workday/shift. Must be capable of lifting fifty (50) pounds of dead weight alone.
- Maintain confidentiality of Reliant Rehabilitation, community, and patient information.
- Must conduct self in an ethical, legal, and responsible manner at all times.
- Must adhere to the policies, principles, and guidance within the Team Member Handbook and Code of Business Conduct.
- Must be able to travel between communities during scheduled hours.
- Must be able to work varying hours and shifts, including weekends and holidays.
- Attends all mandatory meetings, trainings, and assignments as delegated.
- Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned
Qualifications
Competency:
Prior to beginning patient care for Reliant Rehabilitation, a peer OT may complete a Competency Checklist.
To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:
- Effective clinical problem-solving skills to include but not limited to: identify and prioritize issues in a responsive manner, develop sound and innovative action plans, execute action plans on a timely basis, and ensure appropriate results
- Be a strong team player
- Strong verbal & written communication skills
- Ability to build strong relationships with a diverse population
- Ability to read, write, speak, and comprehend in English: instructions, correspondence, charts, memos, and reports
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, productive work environment
Education/Experience:
- Graduate of an ACOTE accredited school of occupational therapy.
Computer Skills:
- Proficient knowledge of Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, Power Point, etc.)
- Basic Internet navigation skills
Certificates and Licenses:
- Valid certification from the National Board for Certification of Occupational Therapy (NBCOT)
- Valid Occupational Therapist state license (where applicable)
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Frequently asked questions
San Diego's diverse patient demographics and regulatory environment shape unique challenges and opportunities for Occupational Therapist SL professionals. The city's emphasis on community-based rehab programs and integration with interdisciplinary teams often requires enhanced cultural competence and adaptability, distinguishing it from occupational therapy roles in other regions.
Occupational Therapist SL practitioners typically manage complex caseloads with supervisory duties, including overseeing assistants and rehab techs. Mastery in clinical problem-solving, billing compliance, and community integration sets them apart, emphasizing leadership within therapy clusters alongside hands-on patient care.
Beyond the standard NBCOT certification, maintaining a valid California state license is crucial. The state’s specific practice acts and guidelines, such as those related to OBRA and environmental safety, make local licensure and compliance key qualifications for Occupational Therapist SL positions.
Reliant Rehabilitation emphasizes a collaborative approach, where Occupational Therapist SLs not only provide direct patient care but also mentor assistants, engage in community outreach, and coordinate interdisciplinary efforts. This integrative model enhances both patient outcomes and team cohesion.
Reliant Rehabilitation offers a strong focus on community involvement and clinical supervision, encouraging Occupational Therapist SLs to lead program development and maintain high standards of ethical practice. This holistic approach blends patient-centered care with professional growth opportunities.
The role demands efficient multitasking: managing case documentation, supervising staff, and ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations, while actively engaging in patient evaluations and treatments. Reliant Rehabilitation supports this balance through structured training and collaborative team environments.
Occupational Therapist SLs in San Diego typically earn between $85,000 and $105,000 annually, reflecting local demand and cost of living. Experience, certifications, and specialized skills can influence compensation, with Reliant Rehabilitation offering competitive packages aligned with regional standards.
San Diego’s healthcare sector shows steady demand for skilled occupational therapists, but competition remains moderate due to a growing pool of qualified professionals. Candidates with supervisory experience and specialized certifications stand out in this dynamic market.
Given San Diego’s urban sprawl, travel between rehabilitation communities can affect daily schedules. Efficient route planning and flexibility with shift hours help Occupational Therapist SLs manage travel demands while maintaining quality patient care.
Daily responsibilities include patient screening, developing and adjusting therapy plans, supervising assistants, and ensuring compliance with documentation standards. Additionally, fostering communication within interdisciplinary teams and community outreach are integral to the role’s workflow.