Physical Therapy Assistant

Michigan State University College of Engineering; East Lansing (MI); On-site; USD 55,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) at Michigan State University College of Engineering in East Lansing supports licensed physical therapists to help patients recover mobility after injuries, surgery, or medical conditions. You will implement treatment plans, guide therapeutic exercises, document outcomes, and educate patients on activities that support rehabilitation.

The role emphasizes accurate documentation, collaboration with healthcare staff, and ensuring a safe, effective

Qualifications

• Associate's degree in Physical Therapy Assistance from an APTA-accredited program.
• Michigan licensure as a Physical Therapist Assistant.
• Six months to one year of related experience in administering physical therapy treatments.
• Equivalent combination of education and experience accepted.

Responsibilities

• Assist physical therapists in implementing treatment plans.
• Guide patients through therapeutic exercises and activities.
• Monitor patient progress and document outcomes.
• Promote a safe and supportive rehabilitation environment.
• Collaborate with healthcare professionals to deliver quality care.
• Schedule patient visits.

Skills

Orthopedic care experience

Post-operative care

Manual techniques

Kinesio Taping

McConnell Taping

IASTM

Epic EMR

Education

Associate's degree in Physical Therapy Assistance

Tools

Epic EMR

Job description

Summary

A Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) works under the direction and supervision of a licensed physical therapist to help patients recover from injuries, surgeries, and medical conditions that affect movement and physical function. PTAs implement treatment plans, guide patients through therapeutic exercises, monitor progress, document treatment outcomes, and educate patients on activities that support rehabilitation and wellness. They play a key role in improving patients' mobility, reducing pain, restoring function, and enhancing overall quality of life while ensuring safe and effective care.

Position Summary

A Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) works under the direction and supervision of a licensed physical therapist to help patients recover from injuries, surgeries, and medical conditions that affect movement and physical function. PTAs implement treatment plans, guide patients through therapeutic exercises, monitor progress, document treatment outcomes, and educate patients on activities that support rehabilitation and wellness. They play a key role in improving patients' mobility, reducing pain, restoring function, and enhancing overall quality of life while ensuring safe and effective care.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist physical therapists in implementing treatment plans
• Guide patients through therapeutic exercises and activities
• Monitor patient progress and document outcomes
• Promote a safe and supportive rehabilitation environment
• Collaborate with healthcare professionals to deliver quality care
• Schedule patient visits
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge normally acquired in the first two or three years in college, technical or vocational school with an Associate's degree in Physical Therapy Assistance from a program accredited by the American Physical Therapy Association; six months to one year of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in administering physical therapy treatments; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Licensed as a Physical Therapy Assistant by the State of Michigan.

Desired Qualifications

• Orthopedic/post operative care experience
• Manual techniques
• Kinesio and McConnell Taping Methods
• IASTM
• Blood flow restriction
• Experience with Epic EMR

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

• Resume
• Cover letter
• Valid State of Michigan Physical Therapist Assistant license

Work Hours

Clinic is open Monday-Thursday 6:00am – 7:00pm, Friday 6:00am – 5:30pm. Hours will be within clinic hours.

Website

https://healthcare.msu.edu/

Summary of Physical Demands

This position requires moderate to significant physical activity. Responsibilities include assisting patients with stretching and resistance exercises, transferring patients to and from wheelchairs, moving and positioning equipment, and demonstrating therapeutic exercises and activities. These physical tasks are performed regularly and may comprise approximately 26% to 75% of the workday. Candidates must be able to safely perform patient-handling activities and maintain the physical stamina necessary to support rehabilitation services.

Summary of Health Risks

This position involves potential exposure to human blood, serum, other bodily fluids, and materials covered under Universal Precautions. Employees may work in close proximity to patients, including within three feet in a healthcare setting, and may encounter infectious disease risks such as tuberculosis (TB). Compliance with infection prevention protocols is required, including the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as respirators, when necessary.

Bidding Eligibility

The Bidding Eligibility ends on 06/16/2026 at 11:55 PM