A high school diploma or completion of an equivalent program is typically required to work as a rehabilitation technician. Because each employer has its own set of requirements, you may need to have some type of volunteer or work experience, so you should look into potential opportunities while still in school. A rehabilitation certificate can also be obtained from a vocational school or community college, which can help you get started in this field and may also open doors for further advancement. You’ll almost certainly need strong interpersonal skills, as well as proficiency with data entry and other computer-related tasks.
Rehabilitation technicians help people recover from illnesses and injuries. The specific duties of these technicians vary depending on the situation, but they typically assist professional physical therapists. Some technicians work with patients directly during the rehabilitation process, while others are more concerned with paperwork. You may be required to answer phones, interact with new and returning patients, and input files into a computer if you choose to work as a technician in this field. You could also assist patients with basic rehabilitation tasks, such as keeping them steady while they go through various exercises.
The requirements for becoming a rehabilitation technician vary depending on the job, but you will typically need a high school diploma and some relevant work experience. You can get this type of experience by volunteering at a hospital or clinic while still in school, or by looking for a low-level job in one of those settings. After becoming a rehabilitation technician, you will typically receive on-the-job training, so a few years of experience in a similar field will often be enough to land you a job.
If you’re interested in a career as a rehabilitation technician, some vocational schools and community colleges offer certificates in this field. Although obtaining one of these certificates is not required to work as a rehabilitation technician, it can help you stand out when applying for jobs. This type of education may also be beneficial after you become a rehabilitation technician because you will already know how to perform your duties and what is expected of you. When seeking any type of future advancement in your career, certificates can be useful, if not necessary.