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Adapted Physical Activity Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Onward Education [82780]

IL · On-site

$45K - $61K/yr

... all physical activities. * Communicate regularly with families and school teams regarding student progress and needs. Qualifications: * Bachelor's degree in Physical Education, Adapted Physical ...

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Adapted Physical Activity information

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How much do adapted physical activity jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for adapted physical activity in the United States is $15.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is adapted physical activity?

Adapted physical activity (APA) refers to physical education, exercise, and sports programs that are specifically designed or modified to meet the unique needs of individuals with disabilities. The goal is to promote inclusion, improve physical fitness, and enhance quality of life by providing accessible and meaningful physical activities. Professionals in APA assess each person's abilities and tailor activities to ensure safety, enjoyment, and personal growth. This can include modifications to rules, equipment, or the environment to ensure everyone can participate. APA is utilized in schools, community settings, and rehabilitation programs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an adapted physical activity specialist?

To thrive as an Adapted Physical Activity Specialist, you need a solid background in physical education, exercise science, or a related field, often supported by a degree and relevant certifications such as CAPE (Certified Adapted Physical Educator). Familiarity with assessment tools, adaptive equipment, and specialized instructional strategies is essential for meeting diverse participant needs. Exceptional communication, creativity, and patience are vital soft skills for building rapport and effectively motivating individuals with disabilities. These skills ensure inclusive, safe, and effective physical activity programs that enhance participants' health, confidence, and quality of life.

What is the difference between Adapted Physical Activity vs Physical Therapist?

AspectAdapted Physical ActivityPhysical Therapist
CredentialsCertification in Adapted Physical Activity or related fieldsDoctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) license
Work EnvironmentSchools, community centers, recreational facilitiesHospitals, clinics, rehab centers
Industry UsageSpecializes in designing physical activity programs for individuals with disabilitiesFocuses on restoring movement and function after injury or illness

Adapted Physical Activity professionals develop tailored exercise programs for individuals with disabilities, often working in educational or community settings. Physical Therapists primarily treat injury or illness-related mobility issues in clinical environments. While both roles promote physical health, their focus, credentials, and work settings differ significantly.

What are some common challenges professionals face when working in adapted physical activity and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Adapted Physical Activity often encounter the challenge of designing inclusive programs that meet a wide range of physical, cognitive, and emotional needs. Adapting activities to individual abilities while maintaining engagement and motivation can be complex, especially in group settings. Collaboration with other specialists, ongoing training, and clear communication with participants and their families are essential strategies for overcoming these challenges and ensuring successful outcomes.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Adapted Physical Activity jobs? The most popular types of Adapted Physical Activity jobs are:
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Adapted Physical Activity jobs near you
Infographic showing various Adapted Physical Activity job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,254 per year, or $16 per hour.

Physical Therapist/Adaptive PE Instructor

mayinstitute

Wilmington, MA • On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Physical Therapist &

Adapted Physical Education (APE) Instructor

May Center School, Wilmington, MA | Full-Time

Position Summary

Are you prepared to ignite change and transform lives in the field of special education? Leap into an exciting opportunity as a Physical Therapist /Adapted Physical Education (APE) Instructor at May Center School for Autism and Developmental Disabilities in Wilmington, MA. The Physical Therapist /Adapted Physical Education (APE) Instructor provides consultative physical therapy and adapted physical education programming to support students’ gross motor development, independence, safety, and overall well-being. This role assesses student needs, develops individualized goals, trains school staff, and collaborates with educational and clinical teams to support student progress.

 

What You’ll Do

  • Conduct formal and informal physical therapy assessments and develop individualized goals and recommendations.
  • Provide consultative physical therapy services based on student needs and established schedules.
  • Design and lead Adapted Physical Education classes, including warm-ups, group activities, and gross motor instruction.
  • Collaborate with teachers and clinical team members to develop and implement gross motor goals within students’ IEPs.
  • Complete progress notes, evaluations, reports, IEP documentation, and other required records.
  • Train, observe, and provide ongoing consultation and feedback to staff implementing physical therapy and APE programming.
  • Collaborate with nursing, educational, clinical, and allied health professionals to adjust therapeutic strategies and recommend adaptive equipment.
  • Implement individualized educational and behavioral programs, collect data, and support students with academics, daily living skills, vocational tasks, and challenging behaviors.
  • Participate in team, IEP, progress review, family, and school district meetings as requested.
  • Promote student safety, dignity, independence, confidentiality, choice, and human rights throughout all programming.

 

What You Bring

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree from an accredited Physical Therapy program.
  • Current state licensure and required national credentials as a Physical Therapist.
  • Experience conducting assessments and developing physical therapy, adapted physical education, or gross motor programming.
  • Knowledge of Individualized Education Programs, Progress reporting, and educational documentation.
  • Understanding of Applied Behavior Analysis or willingness to develop proficiency in ABA-based practices.
  • Strong communication, collaboration, training, organization, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work effectively with students, families, educators, clinicians, and other school professionals.
  • Ability to perform the physical requirements of the position, including lifting, pushing, pulling, reaching, and assisting with gross motor activities.

 

Why Join Us?

  • Comprehensive Health Benefits:Stay covered with competitive medical, dental, and vision insurance. 
  • Investing in Your Growth:Level up your skills with paid training and certification opportunities. 
  • Support When You Need It:Access confidential support and guidance through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP). 
  • Financially Generous Paid Time Off:Dive into relaxation with ample vacation time, 10 paid holidays, and 19 PTO days to start. Plus, celebrate your birthday with a floating holiday just for you! 
  • Flexibility:Enjoy benefits such as a dependent care flexible spending account (FSA), LTD and STD insurance coverage options, and voluntary benefit choices. 
  • Investing in Your Education:Pursue your educational goals with our tuition reimbursement and loan repayment assistance programs. 
  • Secure Your Future:Plan for retirement with confidence through our 403(b) retirement plan with employer match.

Compensation: $75,000-$80,000

Join us and discover a culture that cherishes your well-being and invests in your bright future!

Apply