Freelance Orientation Mobility Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Onward Education is a specialized education staffing and talent solutions company that helps educators, therapists, and school health professionals find top jobs with the nation's top schools. We are currently hiring a full-time School-Based Physical Therapist in Cook County, IL for the 2026-2027 school year.

This school-based role supports students with physical disabilities, motor challenges, or mobility needs by helping them safely access and participate in their educational environment. The Physical Therapist will focus on improving students' gross motor skills, strength, balance, coordination, and mobility to support success in both academic and school-based activities.

• Location: In-person (On-site), Cook County, IL
• Weekly Hours: Full-Time (35 hours/week)
• Schedule:
  • Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri: 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM
  • Wed: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
  • Students dismissed at 2:30 PM
• Caseload: Pre-K through 6th grade
• Sites: 4 school buildings (2 buildings share the same campus/playground)

• Conduct evaluations to assess motor skills, mobility, and physical access needs in the school setting
• Develop and implement therapy plans aligned with IEP/504 goals
• Provide direct therapy services to improve strength, balance, coordination, and mobility
• Teach students safe mobility techniques and support use of assistive devices as appropriate
• Recommend environmental adaptations and appropriate mobility equipment
• Collaborate with school staff and families to support student participation throughout the school day
• Train staff on safe handling, positioning, and mobility support strategies
• Monitor and document student progress, adjusting therapy plans as needed

• Master's or Doctoral degree in Physical Therapy
• Valid Illinois Physical Therapist License (required)
• Previous experience in a school setting preferred
• Strong communication, documentation, and collaboration skills
• Ability to travel between school buildings within the district

• Competitive pay and benefits package
• Access to a wide network of schools and districts for diverse placement options
• Streamlined hiring process to get you started quickly
• Ongoing communication and advocacy throughout your assignment
• Personalized support from dedicated recruiting professionals
• Opportunities for professional growth and development

If you're passionate about creating positive change and supporting students' success, this is the opportunity for you. Join a collaborative school team and help students access their education safely and confidently during a critical end-of-year coverage period.

Apply today -- we can't wait to hear from you!

• • Onward Search is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to a policy of non-discrimination in an employment with regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status or any other classification protected by federal, state and local laws and ordinances. Candidates must be at least 18 years old to be considered for employment. EOE/M/F/D/V/SO.

• • In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire.

• • Onward Search is unable to support 1099 / Corp-to-Corp or Independent Contractor arrangements at this time. All freelancers will be paid as W2 employees.

• • Onward Search offers medical, dental, vision benefits, as well as a 401k program, for all eligible full-time temporary assignments.

• • Onward Search is a drug-free workplace.

• • Onward Search is a nationwide staffing agency and talent solutions provider specializing in creative, marketing, and technology. Our clients are continuously turning to us to fill their open positions. Therefore, there is no application deadline for this position, as we are seeking candidates for this type of role across all our clients on an ongoing basis.