What are the responsibilities and job description for the Athletic Trainer position at UNC Health Appalachian?
Athletic Trainer
Location: Boone, North Carolina | App Ortho | Non-Exempt
Why You’ll Love Working Here
As an Athletic Trainer at UNC Health Appalachian, you’ll play a key role in helping patients recover from orthopedic injuries and sports-related conditions. Working closely with orthopedic specialists and rehabilitation professionals, you’ll design and implement individualized treatment plans that promote healing, restore function, and prevent future injury.
This role blends clinical expertise, patient education, and collaborative care in a fast-paced orthopedic setting. It’s ideal for a motivated Athletic Trainer who is passionate about movement science, injury prevention, and delivering exceptional patient-centered care.
Compensation: Hiring range starts at $23.19 per hour, based on education, experience, certification, and internal equity
Status: Non-Exempt
Benefits: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage; retirement plan with employer match; paid time off; tuition reimbursement; wellness incentives; employee discounts; and additional employee support programs. Benefits begin the first of the month following 60 days of employment from new hire orientation.
Boone, North Carolina—nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains—offers exceptional outdoor recreation, a vibrant downtown, and a strong community atmosphere perfect for active lifestyles.
What You’ll Do as an Athletic Trainer
Patient Assessment
- Conduct comprehensive evaluations of patients’ physical conditions, medical histories, and rehabilitation goals.
- Assess range of motion, strength, flexibility, and functional performance to create individualized treatment plans.
Rehabilitation Programs
- Design and implement evidence-based rehabilitation programs for patients recovering from orthopedic injuries or surgeries.
- Utilize therapeutic exercises, manual techniques, and modalities to improve strength, mobility, and function.
Collaboration
- Partner with orthopedic physicians, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate patient care.
- Provide regular updates on patient progress and collaborate on treatment adjustments.
Injury Prevention
- Develop and implement preventive conditioning and exercise programs.
- Educate athletes and patients on proper techniques and injury prevention strategies.
Emergency Response
- Respond promptly to on-site emergencies during athletic events or clinic procedures.
- Administer first aid and coordinate care with medical professionals when necessary.
Documentation & Education
- Maintain accurate documentation of assessments, treatment plans, and patient progress using EMR systems.
- Educate patients on rehabilitation exercises, body mechanics, self-care, and lifestyle modifications to support recovery.
Qualifications
Minimum Education
- Bachelor’s Degree in Athletic Training from an accredited program required
Experience
- Previous experience in orthopedic or sports medicine settings preferred
- Familiarity with electronic medical record (EMR) systems preferred
Licensure & Certifications
- National Certification in Athletic Training required
- Basic Life Support (BLS) from the American Heart Association required at time of hire
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Strong clinical expertise in assessing and treating orthopedic and sports-related injuries
- Ability to collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary healthcare team
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Flexibility and adaptability in adjusting rehabilitation plans based on patient needs
- Competence in emergency response and first aid procedures
- Accurate documentation skills using EMR systems
- Strong patient education skills focused on empowerment and injury prevention
- Commitment to continuous professional development and staying current in sports medicine best practices
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (8 hours per shift)
- Frequent patient mobilization and hands-on therapeutic activity
- Frequent lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling of 50 pounds
- Frequent bending, squatting, kneeling, twisting, turning, and reaching
- Frequent repetitive hand, finger, and wrist movements requiring moderate dexterity
- Ability to hear and respond to patient communication in clinical environments
Work Environment
- Primarily orthopedic clinic-based setting
- May attend athletic events or travel to off-site locations as needed
- Fast-paced, team-oriented healthcare environment
- Participation in emergency or crisis response situations as required
About UNC Health Appalachian
UNC Health Appalachian is a premier healthcare provider in the High Country, operating three hospitals and a variety of medical services. We are committed to improving the health and quality of life for residents of the region.
About UNC Health
As part of the University of North Carolina system, UNC Health includes 14 hospitals and over 500 clinics, dedicated to advancing the health and well-being of North Carolinians.
Diversity and Inclusion
UNC Health Appalachian is committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences. Employment is contingent upon successful background checks and drug screening. For accommodations or additional information, contact arhsrecruitment@unchealth.unc.edu.
Location: UNC Health Appalachian · App Reg Orthopaedic Sports Med
Schedule: Full-time, Days, 800am-500pm Monday thru Friday
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Pay: $23.42 per hour
Work Location: In person
Salary : $23 - $23