Pediatric Physical Therapist - Independent Contractor (1099)

The Arc Gateway Inc; Pensacola (FL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 83,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible scheduling

Collaborative environment

Beach lifestyle

Job summary

The Arc Gateway Inc. through the Pearl Nelson Center seeks a compassionate Pediatric Physical Therapist to join our early intervention team in Pensacola.

This in-person, independent contractor role offers flexible scheduling and family-centered care for birth to 5 years, collaborating with occupational, speech and developmental therapists. You will perform comprehensive evaluations, develop individualized plans, coach caregivers, document progress and ensure compliance.

Qualifications

• Doctor of Physical Therapy or Master’s degree required.
• Must be eligible for Florida licensure.
• One year pediatric PT experience preferred but not required.
• Background checks and good moral character required.

Responsibilities

• Perform comprehensive pediatric PT evaluations using standardized assessments and observation.
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans with families and teams.
• Provide therapeutic interventions to improve strength, balance, posture, mobility and motor skills.
• Coach caregivers in exercises and routines to integrate therapy goals.
• Monitor progress, adjust plans as needed and document outcomes.

Skills

Pediatric therapy

Family-centered care

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Play-based approach

Education

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) or Master’s in PT

Job description

Description

COMPANY OVERVIEW:

The Pearl Nelson Center, a program of the nonprofit The Arc Gateway, offers pediatric speech, occupational, and physical therapies, along with developmental instruction. Our dedicated therapists prioritize the well-being of children, with a special focus on those aged birth to 5 years.

SUMMARY:

We are seeking a compassionate and skilled Pediatric Physical Therapist to join our team. This role offers flexible scheduling and the opportunity to provide meaningful, family-centered physical therapy services. You will collaborate closely with families and interdisciplinary professionals to ensure each child receives the highest quality of care. As part of our team, you'll be at the forefront of our early intervention team, championing interdisciplinary collaboration with occupational, speech and developmental therapists to provide holistic care to our young patients to achieve a meaningful outcome. You will thrive in our collaborative environment where teamwork is key, both among therapists and with the families we serve.

KEY ROLES and RESPONSIBILITES:

A Pediatric Physical Therapist is responsible for a range of duties that include the following:

• Perform comprehensive physical therapy evaluations using standardized assessments and clinical observation
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans tailored to each child’s needs in collaboration with families and interdisciplinary teams
• Provide therapeutic interventions to improve strength, balance, coordination, posture, tone, mobility, motor control, endurance, and functional skills using evidence-based and play-based approaches.
• Coach caregivers in therapeutic exercises to enhance motor development, mobility and function and how to Integrate therapy goals into everyday routines and activities
• Monitor progress, modify treatment plans as needed and document outcomes
• Maintain accurate, timely, and compliant documentation in accordance with state, federal, and payer requirements. Ensure documentation supports medical necessity, functional progress, and skilled service delivery.
• Scheduling and Caseload Management (as outlined in contract)

DESIRED CHARACTERISTICS:

• Passion for working with children and the ability to engage children through play-based and developmentally appropriate interventions
• Knowledge of pediatric developmental milestones and pediatric conditions
• Clinical reasoning and problem solving skills
• Cultural sensitivity and family-centered approach
• Ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team
• Strong interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with children, families, and interdisciplinary team members.
• Proficiency with electronic documentation systems

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must be able to pass Level 2 fingerprint background check, (https://info.flclearinghouse.com), abuse registry clearinghouse check, and local law enforcement check, Affidavit of Good Moral Character.
• Must be eligible to become a credentialed provider with Florida Medicaid and other payers.
• Must be 21 years of age.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

• Doctor of Physical Therapy or Master’s degree from accredited university required.
• Must meet state requirements for physical therapy licensure
• One year of experience as a pediatric physical therapist is preferred, but not required
• Continuing Education Units to maintain Florida license

CERTIFICATES/LICENSE:

• Current state licensure as a Physical Therapist in good standing
• CPR/First Aid Adult- Infant-Toddler, and HIPAA certifications will be required.
• Proof of liability insurance

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Ability to sit, stand, kneel, bend, squat and move frequently throughout the day
• Ability to work at floor level with pediatric clients for extended periods
• Ability to lift, carry up to 25-40 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation
• Ability to engage in active play-based therapy activities
• Ability to use hands, vision and hearing for assessments and documentation

WHY CHOOSE US:

• Collaborative Environment: Work alongside dedicated therapists and supportive families.
• Flexible Scheduling: Achieve the balance you deserve.
• Fantastic Company Culture: Join a diverse team committed to making a difference.
• Location & Community: Our area boasts over 50 miles of the most stunning beaches in the world, as well as a vibrant downtown community, a wide range of outdoor activities and some of the most affordable housing in the state.

Job Type: Independent Contractor – In Person Position

Compensation: Contract rate determined by years of experience

Medical specialties: Pediatrics

Schedule: Flexible

Education: Master's (Required)