Physical Therapy Assistant I

Responsible for providing direct patient care by implementing physical therapy treatment plans established by a licensed therapist. Ensures delivery of therapy services to help patients regain movement, improve mobility, and manage pain. Assists with departmental tasks such as chart audits, general cleaning, and program development to support operational efficiency. Adheres to all organizational policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements. Encourages patient participation and monitors progress to achieve optimal therapy outcomes.

Essential Functions

• Collaborates with physical therapy staff, physicians, and interdisciplinary team members to coordinate and integrate patient care.
• Implements physical therapy treatment plans by administering therapeutic exercises, modalities, and manual techniques.
• Observes and evaluates patient responses to treatment, reporting progress and outcomes to the Physical Therapist.
• Documents all patient care activities and outcomes accurately and timely in the electronic medical record.
• Instructs, motivates, and assists patients in learning and improving functional activities.
• Fits, adjusts, and trains patients in the use and care of orthopedic braces, prostheses, and supportive devices.
• Educates patients and families on treatment procedures, home care, and safety precautions.
• Provides orientation, training, and supervision to new employees, staff, and students as required.
• Maintains required licensure, completes annual competencies, and ensures compliance with regulatory and accrediting standards.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Education Requirement

Associate’s degree of Applied Science

Experience Requirement

0–2 years of experience in a healthcare, clinical setting, or a relevant area. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered. All experience must be paid and in the same related field. Part‑time and PRN experience will be prorated based on hours worked per week. Volunteer work and internships for academic credit are not counted.

Certifications & Licensures

Active Physical Therapy license in applicable state, Basic Life Support (BLS), Driver’s license if working Home Health.

Working Conditions

• Lifting, pushing, and/or pulling objects up to 50lbs: Intermittent (10% - 50% of the time)
• Lifting, pushing, and/or pulling objects over 50lbs: Occasional (< 10% of the time)
• Standing or walking with objects up to 10lbs: Regular (> 50% of the time)
• Standing or walking with objects up to 25lbs: Intermittent (10% - 50% of the time)
• Sitting at computer workstation for extended periods: Occasional (< 10% of the time)
• Risk of back injury from moving, lifting or positioning patients, equipment, or materials: Intermittent (10% - 50% of the time)
• Repetitive motion: Intermittent (10% - 50% of the time)
• Job‑related travel: Occasional (< 10% of the time)
• Hazardous chemicals and fumes including waste: Occasional (< 10% of the time)
• Risk of injuries from use of equipment on the job: Occasional (< 10% of the time)

Physical Demands

This position requires regular standing or walking with objects weighing up to 10 pounds; intermittent standing or walking with objects weighing up to 25 pounds; intermittent lifting, pushing, and/or pulling objects weighing up to 50 pounds; occasional lifting, pushing, and/or pulling objects over 50 pounds; occasional sitting at a computer workstation for extended periods of time; and performing tasks with repetitive motions. Also involves intermittent risk of back injury from moving, lifting, or positioning patients, equipment, or materials; and occasional exposure to hazardous chemicals and fumes including waste, cuts/punctures, and bloodborne or airborne pathogens.