Orthotists usually create orthopedic devices from physicians' prescriptions, but there are many other jobs within the field. The qualifications that you need to get jobs in orthotic labs may vary, depending on each employer's requirements. For example, an orthotic labs supervisor may need more management experience than a technician. There are many methods of entry for prospective orthotists, including school-to-work programs, military service, and apprenticeships. You can contact employment counselors, prospective employers, or orthotic associations to learn about job requirements.
Even though positions like technician, assistant orthotist, and department supervisor are generally the most common jobs in orthotic labs, a number of other employment opportunities exist in the field. These can include orthotic software developers and orthotic researchers. The use of new technological advances, using computers and electronic devices, have broadened the field of microprocessor-controlled orthotic devices, in terms of both development and usage. Some people prefer to work in this area, with those technologies, but others prefer different positions in orthotic labs. Usually, each lab has a lab director, various managers, and many support personnel, and, based on your training, you may qualify for one of these positions.
When searching for a job in the industry, you should widen your job search beyond the phrase 'orthotic labs,' and seek out positions that require your qualifications. For instance, some companies use other language, such as 'medical appliance technician' to describe positions in this field. Professional orthotic and prosthetic associations frequently post job openings on their websites or professional journals. These listings can provide you with a clear understanding of the job's education requirements and duties. Generally, prospective employers have minimum education requirements and other expectations that you must consider when applying for jobs in orthotic labs.
Typically, you need a related college degree and some work experience to get a job in this industry. Some of the most common requirements are an associate's degree combined with about three years of work experience. This on-the-job training could be through an apprenticeship, internship, or from working in the field. A bachelor's degree in orthotics or prosthetics, or an extensive apprenticeship in a lab, would also qualify you for many orthotic labs positions.
Government agencies often regulate the type of training required for some orthotics labs positions. Therefore, you should seek advice from official job agencies, either online or in your community. Most countries do not sanction specific schools or programs, although additional schooling at vocational institutions may help you find work in this field, especially if you are seeking a specialized job without a college degree. For example, computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), and topics in business management, are some of the complementary areas are usually offered by vocational schools.
