Physical Therapist Assistant – Outpatient

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

Job summary

KingRecruitingServices seeks a Physical Therapist Assistant for an outpatient setting in Ithaca, NY. You will work under a licensed Physical Therapist to deliver skilled treatment and implement individualized plans, guiding patients through exercises and mobility activities.

You’ll assist with modalities, educate patients and families, document progress, and support discharge planning. Prior outpatient experience is preferred, CPR certified, and NYS PTA licensure or eligibility is required.

Qualifications

• Successful completion of an accredited PTA program resulting in an Associate's degree.
• Current New York State Physical Therapist Assistant license or eligibility.
• Current CPR Certification.
• Must complete yearly safety in-services and HealthStream e-Learning courses.
• Outpatient or clinical experience preferred; new graduates may be considered.

Responsibilities

• Provides skilled physical therapy treatment under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist.
• Assists with implementing individualized treatment plans addressing patient goals and functional needs.
• Instructs and assists patients with therapeutic exercises, gait training, balance activities, and ADLs.
• Assists with safe use of assistive devices (crutches, walkers, canes, orthotics).
• Performs modalities as directed by the PT (e.g., hot/cold packs, ultrasound, electrical stimulation).
• Monitors patient responses and reports progress to the supervising PT.
• Communicates progress to the PT and helps modify the program as needed.
• Participates in discharge planning and reinforces home exercise programs.

Skills

Communication

Team collaboration

Patient-centered care

Problem solving

Time management

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