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Entry Level Prosthetist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Physical Therapy Assistant

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$27.75 - $36.75/hr

... and prosthetic training. * Uses physical agencies including heat, cold, water, electricity ... Assistant entry-level education in the United States by a credentials evaluation organization ...

Physical Therapist Asst

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$27.50 - $36.25/hr

... and prosthetic training. * Uses physical agencies including heat, cold, water, electricity ... Assistant entry-level education in the United States by a credentials evaluation organization ...

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Entry Level Prosthetist information

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$25K

$47.8K

$68.5K

How much do entry level prosthetist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level prosthetist 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Prosthetist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Prosthetist, you need a bachelor's degree in prosthetics and orthotics or a related field, along with completion of a clinical residency and, in many cases, national certification. Familiarity with CAD/CAM systems, 3D printing technologies, and patient management software is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate empathetically with patients are vital for success. These competencies ensure effective patient care, precise device fabrication, and successful collaboration with healthcare teams.

What does an entry level prosthetist do?

An entry level prosthetist is a healthcare professional who assists in the design, fitting, and fabrication of artificial limbs (prostheses) for patients who have lost a limb due to injury, illness, or congenital conditions. They work closely with experienced prosthetists and other healthcare providers to assess patients’ needs, take measurements, and help ensure that prosthetic devices fit comfortably and function effectively. Entry level prosthetists are often involved in patient education, device adjustments, and follow-up care as they gain practical experience in the field.

How much do prosthetists make per hour?

Entry-level prosthetists typically earn between $20 and $30 per hour, depending on location, experience, and certification. As they gain experience and advanced skills, their hourly wage can increase significantly. Prosthetists often work in clinical or manufacturing settings, requiring knowledge of orthotic and prosthetic devices and relevant tools.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level prosthetists, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level prosthetists often encounter challenges such as building rapport with patients who are adjusting to limb loss, managing a diverse caseload, and learning to balance clinical responsibilities with ongoing documentation. To overcome these challenges, it's helpful to seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, actively participate in team meetings, and continuously improve communication skills with both patients and other healthcare professionals. Embracing a collaborative approach and seeking feedback can help new prosthetists grow in confidence and competence.

What is the difference between Entry Level Prosthetist vs Orthotist?

AspectEntry Level ProsthetistOrthotist
CredentialsBachelor's degree, certification from ABC or BOCBachelor's or master's degree, certification from ABC or BOC
Work EnvironmentClinics, hospitals, prosthetic manufacturingClinics, hospitals, orthotic manufacturing
Industry UsageDesigning and fitting prosthetic limbsDesigning and fitting orthotic devices

Both roles require similar certifications and often work in clinical or manufacturing settings. The main difference is that an Entry Level Prosthetist focuses on prosthetic limbs, while an Orthotist specializes in orthotic devices. They share similar educational backgrounds and work environments, making them closely related but distinct careers within the prosthetics and orthotics industry.

Are prosthetists in demand?

Prosthetists are in steady demand due to the growing need for limb and mobility device replacements caused by injuries, medical conditions, and aging populations. The profession requires specialized training and certification, and employment opportunities are often available in hospitals, clinics, and specialized prosthetic practices.

How to start a career in prosthetics?

To start a career as an entry-level prosthetist, obtain a bachelor's degree in a related field such as biology or health sciences, then complete a prosthetics and orthotics certification program accredited by the National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE). Afterward, gain hands-on experience through supervised internships or residencies, and obtain state licensure or certification as required. Developing skills in anatomy, biomechanics, and patient care is essential for success in this field.

Can you be a prosthetist without a degree?

Becoming an entry-level prosthetist typically requires completing a formal education program in prosthetics and orthotics, which leads to a certification or license. Most states and professional organizations mandate specific degrees and supervised clinical training to practice legally and competently in this field.
More about Entry Level Prosthetist jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Prosthetist jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Prosthetist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Prosthetist jobs? The most popular types of Prosthetist jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Prosthetist jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Prosthetist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Prosthetist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Locum Tenens, 2% Internship, 1% Full Time, 4% Temporary, 85% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,831 per year, or $23 per hour.
Physical Therapy Assistant

Physical Therapy Assistant

UnityPoint Health

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

$27.75 - $36.75/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


UnityPoint Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 356 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

295th of 877 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview
The Physical Therapy Assistant provides direct patient care for a diverse community-based caseload according to the plan of care developed by a supervising Physical Therapist. Delivers patient care that is consistent with clinical best practices and results in high quality, improved outcomes and an exceptional patient experience.
Why UnityPoint Health?
At UnityPoint Health, you matter. We're proud to be recognized as a Top Place to Work in Healthcare by Becker's Healthcare several years in a row for our commitment to our team members.
Our competitive Total Rewards program offers benefits options focused on your needs and priorities, no matter what life stage you're in. Here are just a few:
• Expect paid time off, parental leave, 401K matching and an employee recognition program.
• Dental, health and vision insurance, paid holidays, short and long-term disability and more. We even offer pet insurance for your four-legged family members.
• Early access to earned wages with Daily Pay, tuition reimbursement to help further your career and adoption assistance to help you grow your family.
With a collective goal to champion a culture of belonging where everyone feels valued and respected, we honor the ways people are unique and embrace what brings us together.
And, we believe equipping you with support and development opportunities is a vital part of delivering an exceptional employment experience.
Join our team of experts and make a difference with UnityPoint Health.
Responsibilities
Patient Care/Care Coordination
  • Makes visits to the homes of patients requiring home health physical therapy services.
  • Treats clients to relieve pain, restore function and maintain maximum performance using appropriate physical therapy treatments, modalities and procedures as directed by the physician and physical therapist and included in the plan of care.
  • Directs and aids patients in active and passive therapeutic exercises, muscle reeducation, gait and functional training, transfer activities and prosthetic training.
  • Uses physical agencies including heat, cold, water, electricity, ultrasound and massage.
  • Instructs patient, family and caregivers in care and use of wheelchairs, braces, crutches, canes, and prosthetic or orthotic devices.
  • Ensures quality and safe delivery of services to patients according to the care plan.
  • Uses equipment and supplies safely, effectively, and efficiently.
  • Observes and reports to the Physical Therapist and other designated organizational personnel the patient response to treatment and any changes in patient condition.
  • Provides the services that are ordered by the physician as indicated in the plan of care.
  • Maintains accurate and timely documentation of clinical records and time/travel entries.
  • Identifies risk for acute hospitalization and proactively prevents adverse events.
  • Provides visits/treatments consistent with the plan of care.

Qualifications
Education:
  • Graduate of a Physical Therapist Assistant curriculum approved by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education of the American Physical Therapy Association; or, if educated outside the United States or trained in the United States military, graduated from an education program determined to be substantially equivalent to Physical Therapist Assistant entry-level education in the United States by a credentials evaluation organization approved by the American Physical Therapy Association.
  • Passed a national examination for Physical Therapist Assistants

Experience:
  • One year experience caring for similar patient population as to be assigned.

Licensure/Certification:
  • Licensed, registered, or certified as a Physical Therapist Assistant by the state(s) providing services.
  • Valid licensed driver with automobile insurance in accordance with state(s) and/or organizational requirements.
  • Mandatory Reporter: Child & Dependent Adult Abuse.
  • CPR: Maintain a valid Basic Life Support (BLS) Healthcare Provider Card with Re-certification.

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About UnityPoint Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At UnityPoint Health, we provide care in nine regions throughout Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin. As the nation's fourth largest nondenominational health system in America, UnityPoint Health keeps people at the center of all we do. We are looking for dynamic and talented individuals to join our team. You'll find opportunities for every sized dream.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

West Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1995