Occupational Therapist

Scope and Summary

of Primary Responsibilities

The Occupational Therapist (OT) assists clients of all ages to improve their ability to perform tasks in their daily living and working environment. They complete assessments, develop treatment plans, and provide independent living skills training, intervention strategies, recommendations, reports, and service coordination to clients, caregivers, and families.

Operating under the philosophy and scope of Occupational Therapy, the therapist applies science, knowledge, skill and compassion to work with individuals with vision loss. This position also collaborates with external health care providers to identify needs, support care plan goals, and strengthen communication and care planning linkages across sectors.

The OT ensures timely access to information, learning opportunities, and support for individuals with vision loss to achieve the following outcomes:

• Increased system capacity to provide navigation support
• Improved client experience within the health care system
• Enhanced capacity for individuals to remain in their own homes and engage in activities supporting independence and community interaction
• Connection to the right services at the right time and place
• Improved overall health and well-being

II. Essential Functions

The position entails, but is not limited to, the following responsibilities:

• Perform assessments related to:
• the client's capacity to independently participate in activities of daily living
• the use of assistive devices and equipment
• accessible design and the built environment
• Plan, develop, deliver, and evaluate individual or group specialized services in consultation with clients and their families.
• Plan and coordinate environmental and/or task modifications.
• Develop ergonomic recommendations and act as a key resource in occupational performance
• Provide low vision functional advice.
• Support and provide consultation to individuals and their families regarding adjustment to vision loss.
• Act as a clinical services coordinator to liaise with external service providers.
• Participate in case conferences and consult with other health care team members.
• Plan for the closure of a care plan when goals are achieved.
• Monitor and maintain accurate client records.
• Provide consultation, public education, support, and teaching about vision loss.
• Act as a representative for the organization within the occupational therapy profession.
• Maintain professional registration and continuous professional development.

Relationships

• Establish and build positive working relationships at all levels.
• Work as part of a team and independently as required.
• Interact with clients, their families, and caregivers to develop rehabilitation plans of care.
• Build and maintain relationships with professionals in other agencies and community groups.
• Educate community partners about the organization and its specialized services.
• Participate in multi-disciplinary team meetings.
• Advocate on clients' behalf in medical clinics, schools, etc.
• Instruct, delegate to and supervise students, vision rehab assistants, and OT assistants where appropriate.
• Engage in problem-solving and develop strategies to address barriers in coordination/integration of supports and services.

Problem Solving / Time Frame of Impact

• Utilize task analysis and problem-solving abilities related to intervention and rehabilitation.
• Adapt services, materials, and equipment to address the needs of individuals with complex health conditions.
• Report concerns and ensure appropriate care in case of critical incidents.
• Be sensitive and aware of cultural, religious, mental health, and emotional needs.

Decision Autonomy

• Make decisions based on training and experience working with individuals with visual impairments.
• Utilize judgment for assessment and treatment methods.
• Determine scheduling efficiency for service delivery, including frequent visits to client homes.
• Recognize limitations and consult with subject matter experts and Regional Manager as required.

Leadership

• Provide leadership and guidance when training and supervising rehab assistants, family, caregivers, students, and community.
• Take initiative to develop/implement appropriate interventions according to best practice and maintain current knowledge in field.

Requirements

III. Qualifications
Knowledge and Skill Requirements

• 1-2 years’ experience in health and/or social service sectors.
• Understanding of the impact of blindness and low vision.
• Related experience in a community-based setting is an asset.
• Exceptional planning and time management skills.
• Experience and knowledge in managing acute, chronic and complex health conditions.
• Experience or knowledge in neurological rehabilitation, job analysis, falls prevention, and/or accessibility standards is an asset.
• Experience in assessment and care planning/coordination.
• Understanding of roles and linkages across primary care, community care, and specialized services.
• Strong knowledge of client-centered philosophy and clinical practices.
• Proficiency with computer and software programs.
• Ability to work in settings requiring inter-professional collaboration.
• Experience in strength-based approaches such as motivational interviewing and positive coaching is an asset.
• Openness to travel for service delivery in homes or community settings.

Certifications or Designations

• Master of Occupational Therapy Degree (or equivalent)
• Current registration with a provincial regulatory body in Canada
• Valid driver’s license
• Current clean criminal record and vulnerable sector check

Benefits

At VLRC, your work has real impact. Join a team that empowers Canadians with vision loss to live independently, and where your growth, well-being, and contributions matter. We offer:

· Comprehensive benefits, including health, vision, dental, corporate discounts, and an employee and family assistance program

· Flexible work arrangements, generous paid time off, and work-life balance initiatives

· Career development through training, mentorship, and advancement opportunities

· Inclusive work culture with supportive teams, employee recognition, a joy-in-work wellness program, and mental health supports

Join us to grow your career and make a difference every day.

Inclusion, Accessibility & Accommodation
VLRC is committed to creating and maintaining an inclusive, equitable, and accessible workplace. We welcome applications from members of groups that have been historically marginalized, including but not limited to Indigenous peoples, racialized persons, persons with disabilities, including people who are blind, partially sighted, or deafblind, women, and 2SLGBTQ+ communities. We strongly encourage people with sight loss to apply. Direct lived experience is valued as an asset. The successful candidate may be required to complete a Vulnerable Sector Check, depending on the role.

If you require an accommodation to apply or participate in the selection process, please contact . We’ll be happy to work with you to meet your needs.

Not sure if you qualify? Think about applying anyway!
We understand that not everyone brings 100% of the skills and experience for the role. If you bring passion, transferable skills, and a desire to make a difference, we encourage you to apply! VLRC does not use AI tools in its screening, assessment, or selection process.

Hiring Process
Candidates selected to move forward may be invited to participate in interviews, assessments, reference checks, and/or background checks, depending on the role.

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.