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Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant Jobs in Minnesota

Physical Therapy Assistant - FT (Ardmore)

Anoka, MN · On-site

$28.50 - $37.75/hr

Physical Therapist Assistant may be entry level. Certifications: American Heart Association Health Care Provider Basic Life Support Certification. Other: Preferred Education: Preferred Licensure:

Physical Therapy Assistant (PRN) Ardmore

Anoka, MN · On-site

$28.50 - $37.75/hr

Physical Therapist Assistant may be entry level. Certifications: American Heart Association Health Care Provider Basic Life Support Certification. Other: Preferred Education: Preferred Licensure:

Physical Therapy Assistant (PRN) Ardmore

Anoka, MN · On-site

$28.50 - $37.75/hr

Physical Therapist Assistant may be entry level. Certifications: American Heart Association Health Care Provider Basic Life Support Certification. Other: Preferred Education: Preferred Licensure:

PTA - Physical Therapy Assistant - Per Diem

Anoka, MN · On-site

$28.50 - $37.75/hr

Physical Therapist Assistant may be entry level. Certifications: American Heart Association Health Care Provider Basic Life Support Certification. Why Mercy? From day one, Mercy offers outstanding ...

PRN Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)Rock Creek Care Center | $41-$45/hrFlexible Schedule. Meaningful Work. Make a Difference. Rock Creek Care Center is seeking a compassionate and motivated ...

Physical Therapy Assistant

Rochester, MN · On-site

$28.50 - $37.50/hr

Centra Healthcare QIA is seeking a Physical Therapy Assistant for a job in Rochester, Minnesota. & Requirements * Specialty: Physical Therapy Assistant * Discipline: Therapy * Duration: Ongoing * 40 ...

Physical Therapy Assistant

Ely, MN

$23.75 - $31.25/hr

Are you a licensed physical therapy assistant, with a heart for the elderly and those who need skilled care? We want you on our team! Boundary Waters Care Center is seeking a dedicated, compassionate ...

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Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant information

See Minnesota salary details

$24.5K

$46.8K

$67.1K

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

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level physical therapy assistant in Minnesota is $46,846.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,700.00 and $50,900.00 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 are popular job titles related to Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant jobs in Minnesota?

For Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,846 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Physical Therapy Assistant - FT (Ardmore)

Mercy

Anoka, MN • On-site

$28.50 - $37.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Mercy rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 209 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

613th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Find your calling at Mercy!Overview
The Physical Therapist Assistant assists the Physical Therapist in the provision of physical therapy. The incumbent shall perform physical therapy procedures and related tasks that have been selected and delegated by the supervising Physical Therapist. The Physical Therapist Assistant may modify a specific treatment procedure in accordance with changes in patient status within the scope of the Physical Therapist's established treatment plan. The incumbent documents patient progress notes. The incumbent shall safety and effectively provide physical therapy procedures as directed by their supervising Physical Therapist. The incumbent shall address appropriately the age specific needs for all patients. The incumbent will treat patients and families with respect and dignity. Patients pain will be assessed and treated according to the departments pain management policy. It is the philosophy of Mercy Hospital to optimize patients' comfort while they are in the hospital. The incumbent will identify and report any patient safety issue when identified. The Physical Therapist Assistant shall provide technical assistance and direction to the Physical Therapy aide and coordinates the workload in the department as directed.Position Details:

Qualifications

Education: Associate degree

Licensure: Current license to perform as a Physical Therapist Assistant from the Board of Physical Therapy in the applicable State of practice.

Experience: Physical Therapist Assistant may be entry level.
Certifications: American Heart Association Health Care Provider Basic Life Support Certification.
Other:
Preferred Education:
Preferred Licensure:
Preferred Experience:
Preferred Certifications:
Preferred Other:

Why Mercy?

From day one, Mercy offers outstanding benefits - including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, tuition support, and matched retirement plans for team members working 32+ hours per pay period.

Join a caring, collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion. As we grow, you'll grow with us.


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About Mercy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our mission is clear. We bring to life a healing ministry through our compassionate care and exceptional service. At Mercy, we believe in careers that match the unique gifts of unique individuals - careers that not only make the most of your skills and talents, but also your heart.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chesterfield, MO, US

Year founded

1827