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Entry Level Pta Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

1 Legacy, Inc

Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)

Hemet, CA

$28 - $37.25/hr

Experience: Entry-level to Experienced. Physical Requirements: A. Ability to bend, reach, or assist to transfer up to 50-100 lbs. B. Ability to stand and/or walk 80% of an 8 hr. shift. C. Visual and ...

1 Legacy, Inc

COTA

Riverside, CA · On-site

$29.75 - $39.75/hr

May perform other duties as assigned Entry-level to Experienced. Physical Requirements: A. Ability ... Therapist Assistant, PTA, Physical Therapist Assistant, HH, Ortho, orthopedics, orthopedic ...

1 Legacy, Inc

Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$29.25 - $38.50/hr

Experience: Entry-level to Experienced. Physical Requirements: A. Ability to bend, reach, or assist to transfer up to 50-100 lbs. B. Ability to stand and/or walk 80% of an 8 hr. shift. C. Visual and ...

All JobsPta JobsEntry Level Pta JobsEntry Level Pta Jobs in Riverside, CA

Entry Level Pta information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$18

$33

$46

How much do entry level pta jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level pta in Riverside, CA is $33.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.08 and $37.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Will PT be replaced by AI?

Physical therapy assistants (PTAs) perform hands-on patient care and require clinical judgment, making full replacement by AI unlikely in the near future. While AI can assist with scheduling, data analysis, and treatment planning, PTAs' direct patient interaction and manual skills are essential components of their role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA), and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level PTA, you need a solid understanding of therapeutic exercises, patient care techniques, and an associate’s degree from an accredited PTA program along with state licensure. Familiarity with electronic medical records (EMR) systems and therapeutic equipment is typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and organizational skills help PTAs effectively support patients and collaborate with supervising physical therapists. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and compassionate delivery of rehabilitation services, which is crucial for optimal patient outcomes.

What is the difference between Entry Level Pta vs Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant?

AspectEntry Level PtaCertified Occupational Therapy Assistant
Required CredentialsPhysical Therapist Assistant (CPTA) license, associate degreeOccupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) certification, associate degree
Work EnvironmentRehabilitation centers, hospitals, outpatient clinicsRehabilitation centers, hospitals, outpatient clinics
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in physical therapy settingsUsed in occupational therapy settings

While both roles require an associate degree and certification, an Entry Level Pta specializes in physical therapy, focusing on mobility and strength, whereas a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) works in occupational therapy, helping patients regain daily living skills. The roles often overlap in similar healthcare environments but serve different therapeutic needs.

What are entry level PTAs?

Entry level PTAs, or Physical Therapist Assistants, are healthcare professionals who work under the supervision of physical therapists to help patients recover from injuries and improve mobility. They assist with exercises, provide treatments, and educate patients about physical therapy techniques. Entry level PTAs typically have recently graduated from an accredited PTA program and passed the national licensure exam. Their responsibilities often include setting up equipment, monitoring patient progress, and documenting treatment sessions.

Is PTA hard to get into?

Becoming a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) typically requires completing an accredited associate degree program and passing the National Physical Therapy Exam. Admission to PTA programs can be competitive, often requiring a strong academic record, relevant healthcare experience, and prerequisite coursework. The difficulty varies depending on the program and applicant qualifications.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs) during their first year on the job?

Entry-level PTAs often encounter challenges such as adjusting to the fast pace of clinical settings, managing a diverse patient caseload, and balancing administrative duties with direct patient care. Building strong communication with supervising physical therapists and other healthcare team members is essential, as is learning to tailor therapy plans to individual patient needs while ensuring safety and compliance. Overcoming these challenges helps new PTAs develop confidence, clinical skills, and effective teamwork, which are critical for career growth.

Can PTAs make 100k a year?

Entry-level Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs) typically do not earn $100,000 annually. Most PTAs earn between $50,000 and $70,000 per year, with higher salaries possible with experience, specialization, or working in high-demand areas. Achieving a $100,000 salary usually requires additional certifications, advanced roles, or years of experience beyond entry level.

Can I be a physical therapist assistant with no experience?

Entry-level physical therapist assistants (PTAs) typically need to complete an accredited associate degree program and obtain licensure or certification. While prior experience is not usually required, strong communication skills and knowledge of basic patient care are important for success in the role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Pta jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Pta jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Pta jobs in Riverside, CA? For Entry Level Pta jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Pta jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Pta jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Entry Level Pta jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Entry Level Pta job openings:
Entry Level Pta jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Pta job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 43% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $69,325 per year, or $33.3 per hour.

Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)

1 Legacy, Inc

Hemet, CA

$28 - $37.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Skilled Nursing Facility A leading provider of rehabilitation services for the elderly with many locations throughout the country. Our dedicated professionals are committed to enhancing our patient's quality of life with passion and integrity.

Job Description

Job Description Fulltime Physical Therapist Assistant

Job Title: Physical Therapist

Prepared By: 1 Legacy, Inc. Company

Description Skilled Nursing Facility A leading provider of rehabilitation services for the elderly with many locations throughout the country. Our dedicated professionals are committed to enhancing our patient's quality of life with passion and integrity.

Job Summary:

The Staff Physical Therapist Assistant administers physical therapy services as directed by a registered physical therapist; does not perform evaluations. Performs duties assigned by the Director of Rehab or staff therapist(s). Qualifications Licensure/Certification: Licensed as a Physical Therapist Assistant for the State of California, or eligible. Must have valid CPR certification within the last year.

Experience:

Entry-level to Experienced.

Physical Requirements:

A. Ability to bend, reach, or assist to transfer up to 50-100 lbs.

B. Ability to stand and/or walk 80% of an 8 hr. shift.

C. Visual and hearing acuity to perform job-related functions keywords:

SLP, ST, Speech, OT, OTR, Occupational, PT, P.T., Physical Therapist, Therapist, homecare, home care, healthcare, health care, home health, HH, Ortho, orthopedics, orthopedic therapist, therapy, balance dysfunction, therapy manager, rehab, outpatient, outpatient, rehab setting, rehabilitative, therapeutic, physical therapy, acute care, rehabilitation, geriatrics, outpatient, outpatient therapy Please feel free to pass this Job Description along to anyone who you feel would be a good fit!!!

951-251-0997

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