Physical Therapist Assistant – Outpatient

Confident Search Consultants; Town of Ithaca (NY); On-site; USD 34,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

Confident Search Consultants seeks a Physical Therapist Assistant – Outpatient in Ithaca, NY. You will support a licensed Physical Therapist, implement plans, and guide patients through exercises and activities to improve function.

Responsibilities include documentation, caregiver education, and coordination with the PT for program updates. Outpatient setting, onsite schedule with day/evening shifts.

Qualifications

• Successful completion of an accredited PTA program (Associate degree).
• Current NYS PTA license or eligibility as required by NYS.
• Current CPR certification maintained.
• Annual safety trainings and HealthStream courses completed.

Responsibilities

• Provide PTA services under supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist.
• Implement individualized treatment plans addressing patient goals.
• Instruct patients in therapeutic exercises and functional activities.
• Assist with safe use of assistive devices and orthotics as needed.
• Document patient progress and communicate changes to PT.
• Contribute to discharge planning and home exercise education.

Skills

Strong problem solving

Attention to detail

Written and oral communication

Teamwork with multidisciplinary team

Education

Associate's degree in PTA

New York State PTA license or eligibility

CPR Certification

Job description

Physical Therapist Assistant – Outpatient

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Provides skilled physical therapy treatment under the direction and supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist.


• Assists with implementing individualized treatment plans established by the Physical Therapist to address each patient's goals and functional needs.


• Instructs, encourages, and assists patients with therapeutic exercises, functional activities, gait training, balance activities, and activities of daily living.


• Assists patients in the safe use of assistive and supportive devices, including crutches, walkers, canes, and orthotic devices.


• Provides physical therapy modalities as directed by the Physical Therapist, which may include hot/cold packs, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and other appropriate therapeutic modalities.


• Performs therapeutic activities and manual therapy techniques within the PTA's scope of practice and under the supervision of the Physical Therapist.


• Monitors and documents patient responses to treatment and reports changes in the patient's condition or progress to the supervising Physical Therapist.


• Communicates with the Physical Therapist regarding patient progress and assists with appropriate modifications to the treatment program.


• Participates in discharge planning and reinforces home exercise programs and instructions provided by the Physical Therapist.


• Educates patients, families, and caregivers regarding prescribed exercises, safety, mobility, and continuation of the therapeutic program at home.


• Documents patient care, treatment provided, patient response, and applicable charges in the electronic medical record.


• Maintains compliance with applicable New York State requirements, facility policies, safety procedures, and professional standards.

Required Skills and Experience

Education:Successful completion of an accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program resulting in an Associate's degree.

Licensure:Current New York State Physical Therapist Assistant license or eligibility for licensure as required by New York State.

Certification:Current CPR Certification.

Training:Must complete yearly mandatory safety in-services and/or trainings as well as yearly HealthStream e-Learning courses.

Experience:Prior outpatient or clinical experience preferred. New graduates may be considered.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.


• Good written and oral communication skills.


• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team.


• Ability to prioritize work, manage time effectively, and adapt to changes in patient volume and operational needs.


• Ability to demonstrate compassion, professionalism, and effective patient-centered care.

Compensation

Hourly Rate: $25.00–$32.00 per hour, depending on qualifications and experience.

Location and Travel Requirements

Location: Onsite – Ithaca, NY

Shift:Days/Evenings FLEX. Anticipated schedule will be assigned during operational hours of 6:00 AM–6:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Occasional weekends. Call as required.

Travel Requirements:Local travel may be required to support outpatient therapy needs at various area locations.

Why Ithaca, NY?

• Home to Cornell University and Ithaca College


• Stunning Finger Lakes scenery, waterfalls, and hiking trails


• Vibrant arts, dining, and cultural scene


• Strong sense of community and excellent schools


• Easy access to outdoor recreation year-round


• High quality of life with a balanced pace of living