Orthotists and Prosthetists
Orthotists and prosthetists design, measure, fit, and adapt medical devices that replace or support body parts. Orthotists work with braces and supports for people with injuries or disabilities. Prosthetists create artificial limbs and facial parts. They work in hospitals, clinics, and specialized orthotic and prosthetic facilities.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against orthotists and prosthetists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
Work involves meeting with patients to assess their needs, taking measurements and impressions, designing custom devices, and fitting finished appliances. Prosthetists and orthotists may spend time in labs fabricating or adjusting devices using materials like plastics and metals, then conduct follow-up appointments to ensure proper fit and function. Documentation of patient progress and device specifications is a regular part of the work.
Who this work suits
Holland code RIS. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
People who do well in this field tend to be methodical problem-solvers interested in how things work and how to improve them. You likely enjoy hands-on technical work combined with direct patient interaction, and you're drawn to using science and careful measurement to help people regain function and mobility.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a master’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- Orthotist-Prosthetist · Veterans Health Administration · Baltimore, Maryland · $85447–$111087
- Orthotist-Prosthetist · Veterans Health Administration · Battle Creek, Michigan · $40736–$97087
- Orthotist-Prosthetist · Veterans Health Administration · Tacoma, Washington · $100602–$130786
- Orthotist/Prosthetist- Advanced Practitioner · Veterans Health Administration · Tacoma, Washington · $100602–$130786
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | $76,500 | $118,950 | $132,890 | 240 |
| Washington | $75,390 | $105,240 | $114,850 | 250 |
| Utah | $89,130 | $96,530 | $96,610 | 70 |
| Maryland | $70,880 | $95,030 | $153,680 | 90 |
| Oregon | $69,040 | $93,790 | $108,990 | 120 |
| Rhode Island | $62,300 | $93,350 | $100,690 | — |
| Virginia | $75,140 | $92,930 | $105,150 | 340 |
| California | $75,160 | $91,820 | $110,810 | 1,050 |
| Massachusetts | $74,840 | $89,860 | $106,660 | 350 |
| Wisconsin | $75,100 | $89,710 | $111,250 | 140 |
| New York | $64,770 | $89,610 | $111,400 | 300 |
| Illinois | $76,730 | $89,180 | $100,500 | 240 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Fellow of the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (FAAOP) — American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists
- Certified Prosthetist — American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics, Inc.
- Certified Orthotist — American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics, Inc.
- Certified Prosthetist Assistant (CPA) — American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics, Inc.
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against orthotists and prosthetists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 29-2091.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.