Orthotic and Prosthetic Professional Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the field of medical technology, the role of orthotic and prosthetic professionals is increasingly vital.

As healthcare advances, there is a growing demand for skilled individuals who can design, tailor, and maintain orthotic and prosthetic devices.

But what exactly is expected from an orthotic and prosthetic professional?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker attempting to understand the depth of this role,
• A hiring manager mapping out the ideal candidate,
• Or simply interested in the complex realm of orthotic and prosthetic care,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable orthotic and prosthetic professional job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve into the details.

Orthotic and Prosthetic Professional Duties and Responsibilities

Orthotic and Prosthetic Professionals design and build medical supportive devices, such as braces and artificial limbs, to assist patients in enhancing their physical capabilities.

Their typical duties and responsibilities include:

• Evaluating patients’ physical conditions and requirements
• Collaborating with physicians, physical therapists, and other medical personnel to plan and implement patient treatment
• Designing, fabricating, fitting, and adjusting orthotic and prosthetic devices according to prescriptions and patient needs
• Assessing and documenting patients’ progress and adjusting treatments as necessary
• Maintaining patients’ records and device prescriptions
• Providing patients with instructions on how to use and care for their devices
• Ensuring all devices meet quality and safety standards
• Keeping up-to-date with new technology and techniques in the field of orthotics and prosthetics
• Ordering and maintaining inventory of materials, equipment, and supplies for device fabrication and repair

 

Orthotic and Prosthetic Professional Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Orthotic and Prosthetic Professional to join our healthcare team.

You will be responsible for designing, fitting, and customizing orthotic and prosthetic devices for patients in need.

Your duties will include assessing patient conditions, creating treatment plans, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure the best patient outcomes.

Our ideal candidate has a strong background in orthotics and prosthetics, excellent patient service skills, and a commitment to improving the lives of patients with mobility issues.

 

Responsibilities

• Evaluate and assess patient needs for orthotic and prosthetic devices
• Create custom devices, including prosthetic limbs and braces, according to individual patient requirements
• Fit and adjust devices for optimal comfort and functionality
• Collaborate with physicians, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals to create comprehensive treatment plans
• Provide patient education on the use and maintenance of devices
• Monitor and document patient progress
• Stay updated with the latest advancements and technologies in the field
• Maintain patient confidentiality and adhere to health and safety regulations

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as an Orthotic and Prosthetic Professional
• Current certification from the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics or equivalent
• Knowledge of orthotic and prosthetic device design and fitting
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Strong problem-solving abilities
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
• High attention to detail and manual dexterity
• Bachelor’s degree in Prosthetics and Orthotics, or related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Orthotic and Prosthetic Professional
• Work Environment: Hospital or clinic setting. Regular interaction with patients and other healthcare professionals.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Orthotics and Prosthetics Department Manager or Medical Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $100,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Orthotic and Prosthetic Professional Do?

Orthotic and Prosthetic Professionals, also known as Orthotists and Prosthetists, primarily work in the healthcare sector providing medical and physical assistance to patients.

These professionals design and create medical supportive devices such as braces, splints (orthotics) or artificial limbs (prosthetics).

They work closely with doctors and other healthcare providers to analyze the needs of a patient and determine the best type of device to aid in their recovery or enhance their mobility.

They measure and take impressions of the body part that will be fitted with the orthotic or prosthetic device.

Once a device is made, they educate patients on how to use and maintain these appliances.

They also conduct follow-up visits with patients to adjust the devices as needed for comfort and best fit.

Orthotic and Prosthetic Professionals also repair or replace worn or damaged devices.

They keep detailed records of care provided to patients and work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, private practices, and rehabilitation centers.

In addition to their technical tasks, these professionals are responsible for providing emotional support and encouragement to patients adjusting to life with an orthotic or prosthetic device.

They play a crucial role in helping patients regain their independence and improve their quality of life.

 

Orthotic and Prosthetic Professional Qualifications and Skills

Orthotic and Prosthetic Professionals require a unique combination of technical knowledge, practical skills and patient interaction abilities.

These include:

• Technical understanding and practical experience in creating and adjusting orthotic and prosthetic devices to ensure they meet the patient’s specific needs.
• Proficient knowledge of body anatomy, particularly the musculoskeletal system, to understand where and how the orthotic and prosthetic devices will work.
• Strong problem-solving skills to assess the patient’s condition, devise a treatment plan and troubleshoot any complications that may arise with the orthotic or prosthetic device.
• Excellent communication skills to explain complex medical concepts to patients and their families in an understandable manner, as well as discuss treatment options and gather necessary feedback.
• Empathy and interpersonal skills to deal with patients who may be facing physical and emotional challenges, and to build trust and rapport.
• Ability to work in a team, collaborating with other healthcare professionals such as physicians, physical therapists, and occupational therapists to provide comprehensive patient care.
• Attention to detail and precision to ensure the devices are perfectly tailored to the patient’s physical specifications and comfort.
• Physical stamina to stand for long hours during the fitting and adjustment of the devices.

 

Orthotic and Prosthetic Professional Experience Requirements

Entry-level Orthotic and Prosthetic professionals typically graduate from a program accredited by the National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE), gaining theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience.

They often complete a one-year residency program in their respective field, providing them with practical on-the-job experience.

Candidates with 1 to 2 years of experience may have worked in clinical settings, such as hospitals or rehabilitation centers, developing their technical skills and patient care techniques.

In these roles, they are often involved in the design, fabrication, and custom fitting of orthotic and prosthetic devices.

Professionals with 3 to 5 years of experience often have considerable expertise in patient evaluation and the custom design of orthotic and prosthetic devices.

They may have expanded their knowledge and skills in advanced technologies, such as computer-aided design and manufacturing.

Those with more than 5 years of experience often have leadership experience, having managed a team or an orthotic and prosthetic clinic.

They may have specialized in a specific area of the field, such as pediatrics, sports medicine, or neuromuscular disorders.

This level of experience may prepare them for roles as senior clinicians, clinic managers, or educators in the orthotic and prosthetic field.

 

Orthotic and Prosthetic Professional Education and Training Requirements

Orthotic and Prosthetic Professionals typically have a master’s degree in Orthotics and Prosthetics (O&P).

Entry into these programs usually requires a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as biology or physiology, along with prerequisite coursework in areas like anatomy, physics, chemistry, and kinesiology.

These rigorous master’s programs are typically two years in length and combine rigorous coursework with clinical rotations to provide both theoretical understanding and practical training.

Subjects studied may include biomechanics, pathophysiology, materials and design, and patient management.

Following completion of the master’s degree, individuals must complete a one-year residency in either orthotics or prosthetics, followed by a second one-year residency if they wish to practice in both areas.

After completing their education and residency requirements, Orthotic and Prosthetic Professionals must pass certification exams offered by the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics (ABC) or the Board for Orthotist/Prosthetist Certification (BOC).

Continuing education is important in this field due to the continuous technological advancements.

Many professionals attend seminars, workshops, and additional courses to stay updated on the latest techniques and devices.

A combination of advanced education, hands-on training, and dedication to continuous learning are required to succeed in this field.

 

Orthotic and Prosthetic Professional Salary Expectations

An Orthotic and Prosthetic Professional earns an average salary of $73,500 (USD) per year.

The salary can vary based on experience, education, location, and the organization for which they work.

 

Orthotic and Prosthetic Professional Job Description FAQs

What skills are required for an Orthotic and Prosthetic Professional?

Orthotic and Prosthetic Professionals require a unique set of skills including keen attention to detail, solid understanding of human anatomy and physiology, strong problem-solving capabilities, dexterity, and creativity for designing prosthetics and orthotics.

In addition to these, they also need excellent interpersonal skills to interact with patients and their families and to work effectively in a team.

 

What is the educational requirement for an Orthotic and Prosthetic Professional?

Typically, to become an Orthotic and Prosthetic Professional, one must have a master’s degree in orthotics and prosthetics.

Before this, they should have a bachelor’s degree preferably in a field related to health sciences.

Post-graduation, they must complete a residency program.

All Orthotic and Prosthetic Professionals must be certified and licensed to practice.

 

What does a typical day for an Orthotic and Prosthetic Professional look like?

A typical day for an Orthotic and Prosthetic Professional includes conducting patient evaluations, designing and fitting orthotic or prosthetic devices, adjusting devices for comfort and optimal performance, and educating patients on the use and maintenance of their devices.

They may also spend time collaborating with other healthcare professionals to develop comprehensive treatment plans for patients.

 

What qualities make a good Orthotic and Prosthetic Professional?

A good Orthotic and Prosthetic Professional is patient and empathetic, as they work with patients who have lost limbs or have mobility issues.

They must be detail-oriented and have a strong understanding of biomechanics to design effective and comfortable orthotics and prosthetics.

They should also be good listeners to understand the specific needs and concerns of their patients.

 

Is it challenging to hire an Orthotic and Prosthetic Professional?

Given the specialized nature of the work and the high level of skill required, finding qualified Orthotic and Prosthetic Professionals can be a challenge.

Hiring for this role may require an extensive search, focusing on candidates’ educational background, certifications, experience, and soft skills.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve unmasked the true essence of being an Orthotic and Prosthetic professional.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about crafting medical aids.

It’s about shaping futures, one prosthetic or orthotic at a time.

With our handy Orthotic and Prosthetic professional job description template, coupled with real-world examples, you are ready to step forward.

But why halt your journey here?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your go-to tool for precision-designed job listings or refining your resume to absolute precision.

Take note:

Every prosthetic or orthotic you create is part of a bigger life story.

Let’s create those life-changing stories. Together.

How to Become an Orthotic and Prosthetic Professional (Complete Guide)

Tech’s Human Barrier: Jobs That AI Can’t Invade

The Allure of Adrenaline: Inside the Lives of High-Risk Professionals

Lavish Livelihoods: The High-Paying Jobs You Can’t Afford to Ignore!

AI’s Career Coup: The Jobs It’s Set to Seize