Job Details
Job Location: HeartShare First Step, 1825 Bath Ave, Brooklyn, NY, 11214 - Brooklyn, NY
Position Type: Full-Time
Education Level: Masters Degree or Equivalent
Salary Range: $85,000 - $95,000 per year
Travel Percentage: Up to 25%
Job Shift: Day
Description
We are seeking a compassionate and skilled Physical Therapist to join our pre-school special education team. In this role, you will work with children ages 3-5 years with diverse developmental and physical needs, helping them build foundational gross motor skills. The position offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by collaborating with educators, parents, and a multidisciplinary team to create a supportive and engaging learning environment for each child.
Responsibilities
- Assessment and Evaluation:
- Conduct initial and ongoing evaluations to assess gross motor, mobility, balance, and physical development needs.
- Identify functional challenges and recommend services as part of the individualized Education Program (IEP) process.
Intervention Planning:- Develop individualized educational plans (IEPs) aligned with each child's goals.
- Design group and individual therapy sessions targeting coordination, strength, and postural control.
Therapy Implementation:- Deliver therapy services in a fun, play-based manner that engages preschool-aged children.
- Use adaptive equipment, creative tools, and exercises to support children's participation in classroom and playground activities.
- Monitor and document progress, adjusting interventions as needed to meet developmental goals.
Collaboration and Consultation:- Work closely with teachers, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and other staff to integrate motor development strategies into the classroom routine.
- Provide guidance and training to parents and caregivers on activities to reinforce therapy goals at home.
- Participate actively in IEP meetings to share progress and recommend strategies.
- Assist in classroom activities and support instructional needs, performing other duties as assigned by the Director to ensure smooth program operation.
Documentation and Compliance:- Maintain accurate records of evaluations, therapy sessions, attendance, and progress in accordance with program and regulatory requirements.
- Prepare detailed progress reports and contribute to IEP updates.
Professional Development and Training:- Stay updated on best practices and advancements in pediatric physical therapy, especially for children with special needs.
- Provide in-service training to teachers and paraprofessionals on adaptive techniques, equipment, and mobility strategies.
Qualifications
- Doctorate or Master’s degree in Physical Therapy.
- Valid state license and board certification.
- Experience working with young children, preferably in an educational setting.
- Knowledge of pediatric motor development and intervention strategies.
- Strong collaboration and communication skills.
- Physical Demands:
- Stand, sit, and use hands regularly.
- Walk to various locations within the building.
- Stoop, bend, and sometimes lift and push wheelchairs.
- May need to use physical intervention techniques.
- Specific vision abilities required: close vision, distance vision, and ability to focus.
Benefits
We offer a comprehensive benefits package based on full-time/part-time status, including:
- Paid time off (holidays, vacation, sick, and personal days)
- Professional development opportunities
- Team environment
- Medical and dental benefits
- Employer-paid life insurance
- Optional insurance (life, disability, etc.)
- 403(b) retirement plan
- Flexible spending accounts (dependent care, medical, parking, transit)
- Employee assistance program
HeartShare is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). To request accommodations during the recruiting process, contact Leaves@heartshare.org.
About HeartShare
For over 100 years, HeartShare has dedicated itself to improving the lives of people needing special services and support. Our team of over 2,100 employees helps individuals develop to their fullest potential and lead meaningful lives.