Physical Therapist Assistant – Outpatient

Joseph Michaels International; Town of Ithaca (NY); On-site; USD 34,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

Joseph Michaels International seeks a Physical Therapist Assistant for outpatient services in Ithaca, NY. You will work under a licensed Physical Therapist to support rehabilitation goals, guide patients through exercises, and help with discharge planning.

A NY PTA license or eligibility and CPR certification are required, with outpatient experience preferred and new grads considered. Typical shifts run days/evenings onsite in Ithaca, with local travel as needed.

Qualifications

• Must have an Associate's degree in Physical Therapist Assistant.
• New York State PTA license or eligibility is required.
• Current CPR certification is required.
• Annual safety in-services and HealthStream trainings are mandatory.
• Outpatient experience is preferred; new graduates may be considered.

Responsibilities

• Provide skilled physical therapy treatment under supervision of licensed PT.
• Assist with implementing individualized treatment plans to meet patient goals.
• Instruct and assist patients with therapeutic exercises and activities of daily living.
• Assist with safe use of assistive devices such as crutches, walkers, and canes.
• Administer modalities as directed by PT (e.g., heat/cold, ultrasound, electrical stimulation).
• Perform therapeutic activities and manual techniques within PTA scope under PT supervision.
• Monitor and document patient responses; report changes to supervising PT.
• Communicate progress and adjust treatment plans with PT guidance.
• Participate in discharge planning and reinforce home exercise programs.
• Educate patients and caregivers on exercises, safety, and home program continuation.
• Document care, treatment, response, and charges in EMR; ensure NYS compliance.

Education

Associate's degree in Physical Therapist Assistant

New York State Physical Therapist Assistant 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