Physical Therapist Assistant Job Description Template (Free, 2026)

Job Title: Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Department: Rehabilitation Services / Physical Therapy / Patient Care Location: [City, State] — [Outpatient Clinic / Inpatient Rehab / Skilled Nursing Facility / Home Health / Hospital-Based] Reports To: Physical Therapist / Director of Rehabilitation / Clinic Manager Employment Type: Full-Time / Part-Time About [Company Name] [Company Name] is a [outpatient rehabilitation clinic / hospital system / skilled nursing facility / home health agency] providing high-quality physical therapy services to [patient population: orthopedic, neurological, geriatric, pediatric, sports medicine] patients across [geographic area]. Our rehabilitation team is committed to evidence-based practice, patient-centered care, and delivering measurable functional outcomes that restore patients' independence and quality of life. About the Role We are seeking a skilled and compassionate Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) to implement physical therapy treatment plans under the direction and supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist (PT). In this role, you will deliver therapeutic interventions including therapeutic exercise, neuromuscular re-education, functional training, manual techniques, and modality administration to patients with orthopedic, neurological, cardiopulmonary, and other conditions. You will document patient progress, communicate findings to the supervising PT, educate patients and caregivers on home exercise programs, and contribute to a positive, collaborative clinic culture. Key Responsibilities • Implement physical therapy treatment plans as directed by the supervising PT, including therapeutic exercise, gait training, balance and coordination activities, and functional mobility training • Administer physical therapy modalities including therapeutic ultrasound, electrical stimulation (NMES, TENS, iontophoresis), hot/cold packs, and traction under PT authorization • Perform manual therapy techniques within PTA scope of practice as directed, including soft tissue mobilization, joint mobilization (within PT's plan), and manual stretching • Assist with functional mobility training including transfers, ambulation with assistive devices, stair training, and ADL retraining for inpatient and SNF patients • Document patient responses to treatment, progress toward goals, and functional status changes accurately and timely in [EMR/documentation system] in compliance with Medicare, Medicaid, and private payer documentation requirements • Communicate patient progress, response to treatment, and any changes in condition to the supervising PT promptly; participate in care planning conferences and discharge planning • Educate patients, families, and caregivers on home exercise programs, body mechanics, fall prevention, and functional activity modifications • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized treatment environment; perform equipment safety checks and report malfunctions or safety concerns • Meet productivity standards of [X]% direct patient contact or [X] visits/day as established by the department • Participate in department quality improvement initiatives, staff meetings, and continuing education activities Required Qualifications • Associate's degree from a CAPTE-accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program • Current state PTA license in [State] or eligibility for licensure pending NPTE examination results (license required within [X] days of hire) • Current BLS/CPR certification (AHA or ARC) • Working knowledge of therapeutic exercise principles, modality applications, and functional rehabilitation techniques for [orthopedic / neurological / geriatric] patient populations • Proficiency with electronic documentation and EMR systems ([WebPT / TheraOffice / Epic / PointClickCare] or equivalent) • Physical ability to perform patient transfers, assist with ambulation, and lift/carry equipment; ability to stand for extended periods and work in varying patient care environments • Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to motivate and engage patients across diverse backgrounds Nice to Have • [1]+ year of clinical experience in [outpatient orthopedics / skilled nursing / home health] setting beyond clinical affiliation hours • APTA membership and active participation in state chapter activities • Aquatic therapy experience or Aquatic Therapy and Rehab Institute (ATRI) certification • Bilingual proficiency in Spanish or other languages spoken by patient population served What We Offer • Base salary: $50,000–$75,000 depending on experience, setting, and market • State licensure exam fee reimbursement • Continuing education allowance: $[X]/year with paid CE days • Full medical, dental, and vision coverage • 401(k) with [X]% employer match • Paid time off: [X] days vacation + [X] holidays • Flexible scheduling options including [4x10 / Monday–Friday / weekend availability] • Mentorship and career development toward PT school or specialty certifications