Lead Physical Therapist or Occupational Therapist

Scripps Mercy Hospital has served central and downtown San Diego since 1890 and is the oldest medical center in the county. The San Diego campus is located near the corner of 5th Avenue and Washington Street in Hillcrest. Scripps Mercy Hospital consists of two campuses in San Diego and Chula Vista. Scripps Mercy Hospital San Diego’s campus includes the O’Toole Breast Care Center, a 24-hour emergency room that is a Level I Trauma Center, outpatient physical rehabilitation, minimally invasive robotic surgery, and our childbirth unit (including a Level II neonatal intensive care unit).

About the role

This is a full-time position with varied days and 8-hour shifts at Scripps Mercy in San Diego. The Lead OT/PT provides skilled therapy services while serving as a clinical resource and mentor to fellow therapists. This position is ideal for a confident, experienced clinician who is committed to excellent patient care, professional development, and advancing their leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate patients, establish prognosis, develop treatment plans, and provide skilled therapy.
• Provide patient and family education throughout the continuum of care.
• Mentor and provide clinical guidance to therapists with varying levels of experience.
• Promote effective communication, teamwork, and high-quality patient care.
• Participate in department and system projects, education, and professional development activities.
• Practice in accordance with professional standards, state and federal regulations, JCAHO requirements, and Scripps policies and procedures.
• Pursue continued learning and advanced certification opportunities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree and graduate of an accredited Physical Therapy or Occupational Therapy program.
• Current California licensure in Physical Therapy or Occupational Therapy.
• Current American Heart Association Healthcare Provider BLS certification.
• Strong clinical, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Preferred Qualifications

• At least 5 years of acute care experience.
• Previous leadership or clinical leadership experience.
• Specialty certification, board certification, or advanced training.
• Experience with EPIC.
• Working knowledge of Windows, including Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Demonstrated commitment to professional growth, mentoring, and advanced clinical practice.

Benefits

• New Hire Retention Incentive: $4,000
• $3,000 Relocation incentive if moving 100+ miles

Award-winning workplace: Scripps Health is a Great Place to Work Certified company for 2026 and has been consistently ranked as a top employer for women, millennials, diversity, and as an overall workplace by various national publications. Nearly a quarter of employees have been with Scripps Health for over 10 years. Transitional and professional development programs are available to help you thrive in your field and overall career. Scripps specialties have been nationally recognized for quality in areas such as cardiovascular care, oncology, orthopedics, geriatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, and gastroenterology.

Pay

$56.96–$82.59/hour