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Entry Level Pta Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PRN PTA - Aiken

Aiken, SC · On-site

$23.75 - $31.50/hr

PHYSICAL THERAPY ASSISTANT (PTA) Schedule: PRN Location: Aiken, SC THERAPY SERVICES Join the ... entry level education in the U.S. by a credentials evaluation organization approved by the APTA ...

PRN PTA - Orangeburg

Orangeburg, SC · On-site

$26.75 - $35.50/hr

PHYSICAL THERAPY ASSISTANT (PTA) THERAPY SERVICES Join the PruittHealth family, where the health ... entry level education in the U.S. by a credentials evaluation organization approved by the APTA ...

PRN PTA - Blythewood

Columbia, SC · On-site

$26 - $34.25/hr

PHYSICAL THERAPY ASSISTANT (PTA) Schedule: PRN Location: Columbia, SC THERAPY SERVICES Join the ... entry level education in the U.S. by a credentials evaluation organization approved by the APTA ...

PRN PTA - Orangeburg

Orangeburg, SC · On-site

$26.75 - $35.50/hr

PHYSICAL THERAPY ASSISTANT (PTA) THERAPY SERVICES Join the PruittHealth family, where the health ... entry level education in the U.S. by a credential's evaluation organization approved by the APTA ...

PRN PTA - Blythewood

Columbia, SC · On-site

$26 - $34.25/hr

PHYSICAL THERAPY ASSISTANT (PTA) Schedule: PRN Location: Columbia, SC THERAPY SERVICES Join the ... entry level education in the U.S. by a credential's evaluation organization approved by the APTA ...

PRN PTA - Aiken

Aiken, SC

$23.75 - $31.50/hr

PHYSICAL THERAPY ASSISTANT (PTA) Schedule: PRN Location: Aiken, SC THERAPY SERVICES Join the ... entry level education in the U.S. by a credential's evaluation organization approved by the APTA ...

PTA

Loveland, CO

$45 - $53/hr

JOB SUMMARY A Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) administers physical therapy to patients on an ... assistant entry level education in the United States by a credentials evaluation organization ...

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Entry Level Pta information

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$18

$31

$44

How much do entry level pta jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level pta in the United States is $31.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.92 and $35.58 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.
More about Entry Level Pta jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Pta jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Pta job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Pta jobs? The most popular types of Pta jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Pta jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Pta jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Pta jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Pta jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Pta job openings in the United States as of July 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 $66,449 per year, or $31.9 per hour.
PRN PTA - Aiken

PRN PTA - Aiken

PruittHealth

Aiken, SC • On-site

$23.75 - $31.50/hr

Per diem

Medical

Re-posted 12 days ago


PruittHealth rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 129 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

98th of 236 rated social care providers


Job description

PHYSICAL THERAPY ASSISTANT (PTA)
Schedule: PRN
Location: Aiken, SC
THERAPY SERVICES
Join the PruittHealth family, where the health and safety of our workforce is our top priority! We're not only committed to your career, we're committed to the health and safety of all our therapists. Now is a great time to make a change and join one of the leading providers of post-acute care.
PruittHealth will help you conquer your career goals. At PruittHealth, we are searching for therapists who are committed to serving our residents with care and compassion, and in return, we are committed to supporting your therapy career through annual merit increases, career growth programs, preceptorship, and more.
Investing in Our Employee-Partners with Benefits
• Advanced pay option
• Annual merit increase
• Relocation opportunitie
• Paid onboarding & orientation
• Preceptorship Program & hands-on training
• 24 / 7 direct hotline support
• Employee Referral Bonus Program
• Access to PruittHealth Foundation & PruittHealth University resource
• Comprehensive health plan
Responsibilities
• Assist in the executing of the Physical Therapy care plan/treatment to patients as prescribed by the evaluating therapist and physician according to the State Practice Acts.
• Perform clinical tasks, communication, and documentation timely and accurately per policy
• Follow established policies and procedures as related to the scope of practice
• Recognize and respond to priorities in patient care
• Complete all required orientation, in-services, and trainings timely and successfully
• Perform other related duties as necessary and as directed by supervisor
Qualifications:
LICENSURE, CERTIFICATION AND EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
• Valid professional license in the state of practice
• Graduate of CAPTE accredited school. If foreign-trained, the program must be deemed substantially equivalent to a Physical Therapist entry level education in the U.S. by a credentials evaluation organization approved by the APTA
Family Makes Us Stronger. Our family, your family, one family. Committed to loving, giving, and caring. United in making a difference.
We are eager to connect with you! Apply Now to get started at PruittHealth!
As an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, all qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
For Florida Job Postings Only:
For more information regarding Floridas Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse Education and Awareness, please visit https://info.flclearinghouse.com

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About PruittHealth

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

PruittHealth will help you conquer your career goals. At PruittHealth, we are searching for nurses who are committed to serving our residents with care and compassion, and in return, we are committed to supporting your nursing career through annual merit increases, career growth programs, preceptorship, and more.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Norcross, GA, US

Year founded

1969

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