Athletic Trainer
An athletic trainer is a certified and licensed healthcare professional who practices in the field of sports medicine. Athletic trainers work with individuals to prevent, diagnose, and treat muscle and bone injuries and illnesses.
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Sample Job Descriptions for Athletic Trainer
Below are the some sample job descriptions for the different experience levels, where you can find the summary of the role, required skills, qualifications, and responsibilities.
Junior (0-2 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
An Athletic Trainer is a healthcare professional who collaborates with physicians to provide preventative services, emergency care, clinical diagnosis, therapeutic intervention, and rehabilitation of injuries and medical conditions. Junior Athletic Trainers typically work under supervision to gain hands-on experience in the field.
Required Skills
- Knowledge of human anatomy and physiology.
- Ability to respond effectively in emergency situations.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Basic understanding of sports and physical activity.
- Problem-solving and critical thinking abilities.
- Computer proficiency for maintaining injury records and other administrative duties.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Athletic Training, Sports Medicine, or a related field from an accredited college or university.
- State licensure and certification by the Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer (BOC).
- First Aid and CPR certification.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, physically demanding environment.
- Willingness to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as the sports schedule dictates.
Responsibilities
- Assist in evaluating athletes' readiness to play and provide participation clearances when necessary and warranted.
- Implement preventative and rehabilitation programs to treat athletic injuries using physical therapy equipment, techniques, and medication.
- Attend team practices and games to provide medical assistance and advice as needed.
- Communicate with athletes, coaches, and medical professionals regarding players' health and wellness.
- Maintain and organize athletic training supplies and equipment.
- Complete injury and incident reports and maintain accurate records of athletes' treatment.
- Assist with the fitting of athletic equipment and protective devices.
- Administer first aid or emergency care when required.
- Stay abreast of the latest trends and best practices in athletic training and sports medicine.
Intermediate (2-5 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
An Athletic Trainer is a healthcare professional who collaborates with physicians to provide preventative services, emergency care, clinical diagnosis, therapeutic intervention and rehabilitation of injuries and medical conditions for athletes and physically active individuals.
Required Skills
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to motivate and build rapport with athletes.
- Excellent communication skills to interact with team members, medical personnel, and athletes.
- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills to assess injuries and provide appropriate care.
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to multitask.
- Physical stamina and the ability to stand for long periods of time.
- Proficiency in using athletic training equipment and technology.
- Understanding of healthcare laws and regulations relevant to athletic training.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in athletic training, physical therapy, or related field.
- Certification from the National Athletic Trainers' Association Board of Certification (NATABOC).
- State-specific licensure to practice athletic training.
- 2-5 years of experience working as an athletic trainer, preferably in a sports team or academic setting.
- Current knowledge of athletic training methods and procedures.
- Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
- CPR and advanced life support certifications.
Responsibilities
- Develop and implement injury prevention strategies and programs.
- Conduct an initial assessment of an athlete's injury or illness to provide emergency or continued care and to determine whether they should be referred to physicians for definitive diagnosis and treatment.
- Apply protective or injury-preventive devices such as tape, bandages, and braces.
- Recognize and evaluate injuries, provide first aid or emergency care, and advise on injury management.
- Rehabilitate athletes who have sustained injuries by developing and overseeing exercise programs.
- Coordinate with coaches, physical therapists, and physicians to develop and implement comprehensive rehabilitation programs for injured athletes.
- Maintain records and reports of injuries, treatment plans, and progress.
- Develop and maintain a clinic environment conducive to the wellbeing of the athletes, including ensuring equipment and supplies are available and in working order.
- Educate athletes on nutrition, hydration, dietary supplements, and medications in compliance with federal and state regulations.
Senior (5+ years of experience)
Summary of the Role
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Athletic Trainer to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for providing exceptional athletic training services, including injury prevention programs, on-site care and rehabilitation for athletes, as well as educational programs for clients. This role requires someone who has a deep understanding of sports medicine and is committed to the health and wellbeing of our athletes.
Required Skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong organizational and time management abilities.
- Proven ability to work collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary team.
- High level of competence in using athletic training equipment and technology.
- Ability to thrive in high-pressure situations and make informed decisions.
- Commitment to continuous professional development.
Qualifications
- Master's degree in Athletic Training, Sports Medicine, or a related field.
- Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC) credential required.
- Minimum of 5 years' experience as an Athletic Trainer, with a track record of working with athletes at various levels.
- Strong knowledge of injury prevention, assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation techniques.
- Previous leadership experience in managing or mentoring athletic training staff.
- Licensed to practice Athletic Training in the relevant state or region.
Responsibilities
- Develop and implement comprehensive injury prevention programs for athletes.
- Conduct on-site evaluation and treatment of athletes' injuries and illnesses.
- Design and oversee rehabilitation programs for injured athletes.
- Collaborate with coaches, physicians, and fitness professionals to deliver coordinated care.
- Maintain accurate records of athletes' injuries, treatment plans, and progress.
- Educate athletes on health and wellness topics, including nutrition, hydration, and injury prevention strategies.
- Lead a team of athletic trainers and support staff, providing mentorship and professional development.
- Stay up-to-date with advancements in sports medicine and athletic training practices.
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