Physical Therapist Assistant – Outpatient

Rare Bird Recruiting, LLC; Town of Ithaca (NY); On-site; USD 34,000 - 44,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Onsite role

Job summary

Rare Bird Recruiting, LLC is seeking a Physical Therapist Assistant for outpatient care in Ithaca, NY. You will work under a licensed Physical Therapist to implement individualized treatment plans and support patients’ goals.

This onsite role offers an hourly rate of $25.00–$32.00, with day/evening shifts and occasional weekends. Local travel may be required to support outpatient therapy across area locations. New graduates may be considered with NY licensure.

Qualifications

• Education: Accredited PTA program resulting in an Associate's degree.
• Licensure: Current New York PTA license or eligibility.
• Certification: CPR Certification on file.
• Training: Mandatory safety in-services and HealthStream courses annually.
• Experience: Outpatient or clinical experience preferred; new graduates considered.

Responsibilities

• Provide skilled PTA treatment under supervision of a licensed PT.
• Assist with implementing individualized treatment plans to meet patient goals.
• Instruct patients in therapeutic exercises, gait, balance, and ADLs.
• Assist with use of assistive devices and orthotics as directed.
• Apply modalities (hot/cold packs, ultrasound, electrical stimulation) as directed.
• Perform therapeutic activities and manual therapy within PTA scope.
• Monitor and document patient responses; report progress to PT.
• Communicate progress with PT and adjust treatment as needed.
• Participate in discharge planning and reinforce home exercise programs.
• Educate patients and caregivers on exercises, safety, and home program.
• Document care and charges in EMR; maintain NYS compliance.

Skills

Problem solving

Communication

Team collaboration

Time management

Compassionate care

Education

Associate’s degree in PTA

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