Physical Therapy assistant

EMPOWER Physical Therapy & Aquatics Institute; Ladera Ranch (CA); On-site; USD 34,000 - 55,000; Part time

Job summary

EMPOWER Physical Therapy & Aquatics Institute in Ladera Ranch, CA, is seeking a Part-time Physical Therapy Assistant to support licensed therapists by implementing treatment plans and guiding patients through exercises and aquatic therapies.

The PTA will prepare treatment areas, assist with transfers, document progress, educate patients on home programs, and collaborate with the care team to adjust treatments, while maintaining safety and infection-control standards.

Qualifications

• Active PTA license in California or eligibility.
• CPR/BLS certification required.
• Experience in outpatient, orthopedic, or sports rehab preferred.
• Ability to work in aquatic therapy settings and support therapists.

Responsibilities

• Support licensed physical therapists by implementing treatment plans.
• Guide patients through therapeutic exercises and aquatic therapy programs.
• Prepare treatment areas and equipment; assist with patient transfers and positioning.
• Document patient progress and ensure a safe, clean environment.
• Educate patients on home exercise programs and promote adherence.

Skills

PTA license in CA

CPR/BLS certification

Aquatic therapy experience

Outpatient/orthopedic rehab experience

Team collaboration

Education

Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in California

Job description

Company Description

EMPOWER Physical Therapy & Aquatics Institute is a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to managing pain and promoting long-term wellness for a diverse client base. The team focuses on evidence-based physical therapy and aquatic programs designed to help individuals restore function and improve quality of life. Services are tailored to meet the unique needs and goals of each person, creating a supportive and engaging therapeutic environment. The institute emphasizes collaborative care, professional integrity, and continuous improvement to deliver effective, patient-centered outcomes.

Role Description

This is a part-time, on-site Physical Therapy Assistant role based in Ladera Ranch, CA. The Physical Therapy Assistant will support licensed physical therapists by implementing treatment plans, guiding patients through therapeutic exercises and aquatic therapy programs, and monitoring patient responses to interventions. Responsibilities include preparing treatment areas and equipment, assisting with patient transfers and positioning, documenting patient progress in accordance with clinic standards, and ensuring a safe and clean environment. The role also involves educating patients on home exercise programs, promoting adherence to therapeutic recommendations, and collaborating with the care team to adjust treatments as needed.

Qualifications

• Relevant clinical skills, including assisting with therapeutic exercises, manual therapy techniques under supervision, and basic use of rehab and aquatic therapy equipment.
• Strong patient care skills, such as clear communication, empathy, professionalism, and the ability to motivate and support patients with varying physical abilities.
• Organizational and documentation skills, including accurate record-keeping, time management, and attention to safety and infection-control protocols.
• Teamwork and collaboration abilities, including working effectively with physical therapists, support staff, and other healthcare professionals in a busy clinic setting.
• Active Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) license or certification in the state of California, or eligibility to obtain one as required.
• CPR/BLS certification and familiarity with basic emergency procedures in a clinical environment.
• Comfort working in an aquatic therapy setting, including ability to assist patients in and out of pools and maintain safety standards.
• Previous outpatient, orthopedic, or sports rehab experience is preferred but not mandatory; new graduates are encouraged to apply.