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Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Physical Therapy Assistant

York, SC · On-site

$26 - $34.25/hr

The Physical Therapist Assistant's primary responsibilities include preparing patients and equipment for treatment and assisting the Physical Therapist with selected procedures. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

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Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant information

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$25K

$47.8K

$68.5K

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

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level physical therapy assistant in the United States is $47,831.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $52,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level physical therapy assistants?

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 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.

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.
More about Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant jobs
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What are the most commonly searched types of Entry Level Physical Therapy jobs? The most popular types of Entry Level Physical Therapy jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Physical Therapy Assistant jobs include:
Physical Therapist Assistant - Per Diem

Physical Therapist Assistant - Per Diem

University of California

Sacramento, CA

$47.37/hr

Other

Posted 27 days ago


University Of California rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 535 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Physical Therapist Assistant (Per Diem)

This Physical Therapist Assistant (Per Diem) performs patient treatments and patient care activities under the general supervision of a physical therapist. The position is directly responsible to a physical therapist for the performance of duties as assigned and supervised by a therapist. This entry-level physical therapist assistant is expected to provide physical therapy services according to an established treatment plan under the direction of a physical therapist. Must be able to perform all responsibilities of a Physical Therapist Assistant as required and assigned by supervisor.

Minimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload a license and/or certification if required for the position:

  • Must be a California Licensed Physical Therapy Assistant (PTASST)
  • American Heart Association (AHA) or American Red Cross Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification or UC Davis Health CPR
  • Must have one year of clinical experience as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in the inpatient rehab or acute care settings
  • Basic knowledge in physical therapy, as identified by the Physical Therapy Practice Act, and certification by the State of California
  • Judgmental skills
  • Verbal and written communication skills to effectively communicate with hospital staff in a clear, concise, professional manner
  • Organizational and developmental skills
  • Skills and ability to work in stressful situations
  • Tact and diplomacy skills
  • Ability to provide and accept guidance and criticism
  • Ability to assist physical therapists and other staff with patients requiring therapy services of two or more persons
  • The knowledge to properly prepare patients for treatment and provide modalities and procedures to patients under the supervision of a therapist
  • Knowledge of basic anatomy and physiology, and skills in monitoring patients' physiological status during the course of treatment
  • Ability to effectively communicate with the therapist about the patient's overall status
  • Knowledge of indications and contraindications and the application of various physical therapy, hydrotherapy, modalities, and procedures
  • The ability to provide treatments as requested, under the supervision of a therapist
  • Ability to schedule and transport patients in wheelchairs or on gurneys to and from the treatment unit
  • Ability to prepare equipment and patient for treatment, remove and reapply dressing and bandages, and clean and disinfect equipment after each patient's treatment in accordance with established policy and procedure
  • Ability to accurately document patient progress records and accurately prepare patient charge documents
  • Ability to make a safety check of the work area, check the safety of equipment, and report any deficiency or malfunction of equipment immediately to the supervisor
  • Ability to clean work area, mats, equipment, apparatus, and prepare linen and supplies for daily requirements
  • Must see well enough to observe patient reactions and read relevant monitors, relevant device settings, and relevant written information such as the patient's medical record
  • Must hear and speak well enough to communicate with patients and staff throughout the day
  • Must possess the physical strength to assist with patient mobility
  • Must possess sufficient mobility to traverse the distances required to serve patients throughout the institution
  • Must have basic computer skills
  • Ability to participate in departmental and sectional meetings as required

Key Responsibilities:

  • 90% - Provide patient treatment and patient care activities for routine patients of all ages as directed by a therapist from a predetermined physical therapy treatment plan.
  • 5% - Educational Activities
  • 5% - Miscellaneous assignments as required

Department Overview:

The primary purpose of the Joint Venture Rehabilitation Hospital is to provide a full range of rehabilitation services designed to restore patients to their optimal functional capacity. The hospital is a 52-bed rehabilitation hospital on the Sacramento Medical Center campus. It is equipped with leading-edge amenities and adaptive units where patients can practice typical activities of daily living. The rehabilitation hospital also includes a 12-bed brain injury unit and four private rooms for bariatric patients.

Position Information:

Salary or Pay Range: $47.37 Salary Frequency: Hourly Salary Grade: 162 UC Job Title: PHYS THER AST PD UC Job Code: 008951 Number of Positions: 2 Appointment Type: Per Diem Percentage of Time: 20 % Part Time Shift (Work Schedule): Day shift (08 hours) Location: Joint Venture Rehab Hospital, Sacramento, CA Union Representation: EX-Patient Care Technical Benefits Eligible: No


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