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Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant Jobs in Colorado

Physical Therapy Assistant

Frisco, CO ยท On-site

$26.76 - $44.16/hr

We are seeking a skilled and compassionate Physical Therapist Assistant to join the CommonSpirit Health at Home Bristelcone Home Health team. The PTA assists patients, in the comfort of their own ...

Physical Therapy Assistant

Windsor, CO ยท On-site

$38 - $45/hr

Graduate with a Bachelor's, Master's, or Doctorate in physical therapy Assistant from a physical therapist curriculum approved by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education ...

Physical Therapy Assistant

Windsor, CO ยท On-site

$38 - $45/hr

Graduate with a Bachelor's, Master's, or Doctorate in physical therapy Assistant from a physical therapist curriculum approved by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant information

See Colorado salary details

$26.3K

$50.3K

$72K

How much do entry level physical therapy assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level physical therapy assistant in Colorado is $50,295.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,600.00 and $54,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level physical therapy assistant?

Entry level physical therapy assistants (PTAs) are healthcare professionals who work under the supervision of licensed physical therapists to help patients recover from injuries, manage pain, and improve mobility. They assist with implementing treatment plans, demonstrating exercises, and documenting patient progress. Entry level PTAs typically have completed an accredited associate degree program and obtained state licensure or certification. Their role is essential in supporting patient care and ensuring the effectiveness of physical therapy interventions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level physical therapy assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant, you need a solid understanding of human anatomy, therapeutic exercise techniques, and must possess an accredited associate degree along with state licensure or certification. Familiarity with patient documentation software and rehabilitation equipment like resistance bands and therapeutic modalities is typically required. Strong interpersonal communication, teamwork, and compassion are vital soft skills for supporting both patients and supervising physical therapists. These skills ensure effective patient care, compliance with treatment plans, and smooth collaboration in clinical settings.

What are the most common challenges faced by entry level physical therapy assistants, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level Physical Therapy Assistants often face challenges such as adjusting to a fast-paced clinical environment, managing a diverse patient caseload, and effectively communicating with both patients and supervising physical therapists. Building strong organizational skills and seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues can help ease the transition. Additionally, being proactive in asking questions and participating in team meetings supports continuous learning and professional growth.

What is the difference between Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant vs Physical Therapist?

AspectEntry Level Physical Therapy AssistantPhysical Therapist
CredentialsAssociate's degree, licensure requiredBachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree, licensure required
Work EnvironmentAssist patients under supervision in clinics, hospitals, rehab centersEvaluate, diagnose, and develop treatment plans independently
Job RoleImplement treatment plans, assist patients with exercisesDesign treatment plans, assess progress, make clinical decisions

In summary, Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistants support physical therapists by implementing treatment plans and assisting patients, while Physical Therapists have a broader role involving diagnosis, treatment planning, and clinical decision-making. Both roles require licensure and work in similar healthcare settings, but differ in education level and scope of responsibilities.

Do physical therapy assistants or physical therapists make more money?

Physical therapists typically earn higher salaries than physical therapy assistants because they have more advanced education and responsibilities. Entry-level physical therapy assistants usually earn less but can increase their income with experience and additional certifications. Salary differences reflect the varying levels of training and scope of practice between the two roles.

What is the quickest way to become an entry level physical therapy assistant?

To become an entry-level physical therapy assistant, you need to complete an accredited associate degree program in physical therapy assisting, which typically takes about two years. After graduation, passing the National Physical Therapy Exam for PTAs and obtaining state licensure or certification is required before starting work.

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,295 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Physical Therapy Assistant

Grand River Health Care Center

Rifle, CO โ€ข On-site

$25.72 - $32.16/hr

Full-time, Per diem

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Physical Therapy Assistant โ€“ Care Center
PRN
Grand River Health | Rifle, CO

At Grand River, we are more than a hospital - we are neighbors taking care of neighbors proudly serving residents of Western Colorado and beyond. Our supportive culture is built on respect, friendliness, and a shared commitment to exceptional patient care.

Shift Info
PRN

What Youโ€™ll Doย 

As a member of the Rehabilitative Services team, the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) provides patient care under the direction and supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist. This role delivers prescribed treatments designed to reduce pain, improve mobility, restore function, and prevent disability while following state PTA practice guidelines and department policies.

  • Reviews patient charts and prepares patients, residents, and equipment for scheduled therapy services.
  • Implements treatment plans as directed by the supervising Physical Therapist, including therapeutic exercises, stretching, hands-on techniques, and use of therapy equipment.
  • Monitors patient and resident responses to treatment, communicates changes or concerns to the supervising therapist, and provides appropriate status updates.
  • Completes accurate and timely documentation of treatments, patient responses, contacts, and changes in condition in accordance with department standards.
  • Works collaboratively with Physical Therapists, Physical Therapy Attendants, Registrars, and other Rehabilitative Services team members, including following up when patients or residents do not arrive for scheduled services. Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Performs a variety of tasks and other duties as assigned.

Who Weโ€™re Looking For

Seeking a Physical Therapist Assistant who brings strong clinical knowledge, organization, and a patient-focused approach to the Rehabilitative Services team.

  • Current Colorado Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) DORA license required.
  • Current American Heart Association BLS certification required upon hire and must remain current throughout employment with GRHD.
  • At least 1 year of experience in a Rehabilitative Services setting preferred, with knowledge of physical medicine, therapy modalities, anatomy, and physiology.
  • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions, prioritize patient care, maintain accurate records, identify problems, and recommend solutions.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective working relationships with patients and coworkers while managing multiple tasks.
  • Must achieve proficiency within six months of hire in Meditech, QHN, Cedaron, PACS, Exercise Pro, Allscripts EHR, Galactica, Microsoft Office, Kronos, and HealthStream.

What We Offer

Our total rewards package includes

  • Pay Range: $25.72 - $32.16/hour (based on experience)
  • Shift Differentials: $2โ€“$4/hour for nights and weekends, and other incentive pay available.
  • PRN Differential: 10% differential in addition to base rate salary
  • Perks:ย Flexible scheduling, employee assistance program, access to outdoor recreation, and more!

Compensation may vary outside this range depending on a number of factors, including a candidateโ€™s qualifications, skills, competencies and experience.

Position is open until filled unless posted otherwise.

Why Join Grand River Health?
As a special taxing district, we are accountable to our community, allowing us to prioritizeย exceptional patient-centered careย over financial bottom lines.ย Our main hospital campus is located in picturesque Rifle, Colorado with twenty-five beds providing a wide range of services, along with a long-term care center and a satellite campus. While the secret is out that this is a great place to live, the atmosphere ofย a caring and friendly communityย has been preserved amidst a steady growth of population.

OUR MISSION:
To improve the health and well-being of the communities we serve.

OUR VISION:
To be our communitiesโ€™ first choice in quality healthcare.