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Physical Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Physical Assistant information

What is a physical assistant?

Physical Assistants, often referred to as Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs), are healthcare professionals who work under the supervision of physical therapists to help patients recover from injuries, manage pain, and improve mobility. They assist in implementing treatment plans, guide patients through therapeutic exercises, and monitor progress. Physical Assistants also educate patients and families about home exercises and proper techniques to promote healing. Their role is vital in helping patients regain functional abilities and achieve their rehabilitation goals.

How does a physical assistant typically collaborate with physical therapists and other healthcare professionals during patient care?

Physical Assistants play a crucial support role by working closely with physical therapists and other healthcare professionals to ensure patients receive cohesive care. They assist in implementing treatment plans, monitoring patient progress, and communicating any concerns or changes to the supervising therapist. Collaboration often involves attending team meetings, updating patient records, and coordinating with occupational therapists, nurses, and physicians to address each patient's unique needs. This team-based approach helps provide holistic and effective patient care, and also offers valuable learning opportunities for career growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a physician assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Physician Assistant, you need a solid background in medical science, clinical procedures, and patient assessment, typically demonstrated by a master's degree from an accredited PA program and a valid state license. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems, diagnostic tools, and relevant medical certifications like NCCPA are essential. Strong interpersonal skills, critical thinking, and the ability to work collaboratively with healthcare teams set outstanding PAs apart. These competencies are crucial for providing effective, high-quality patient care and ensuring smooth operation in diverse medical environments.

What is the difference between Physical Assistant vs Physical Therapist?

AspectPhysical AssistantPhysical Therapist
CredentialsAssociate's degree, certification as a Physical AssistantBachelor's degree, Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) license
Work EnvironmentAssist physical therapists in clinics, hospitals, rehab centersEvaluate, diagnose, and develop treatment plans for patients
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in healthcare settings under supervisionIndependent practitioners or lead clinicians in similar settings
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for roles assisting in physical therapyMore advanced, requiring higher credentials

In summary, Physical Assistants support physical therapists by performing delegated tasks, while Physical Therapists independently evaluate and create treatment plans. Both roles are vital in healthcare but differ in education, responsibilities, and scope of practice.

What are the most commonly searched types of Physical jobs in California?

The most popular types of Physical jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Physical Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Physical Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Physical Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Physical Therapist Assistant

Select Physical Therapy

Santa Monica, CA • On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Select Physical Therapy rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

727th of 891 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview

Outpatient Physical Therapist Assistant

Location: 507 Wilshire Blvd. Ste. 101 Santa Monica, CA 90401

Schedule: Monday-Friday

Compensation: $35-$40/hour (based on experience)

Incentives: $10K Sign-On Bonus + Monthly Student Loan Repayment Assistance + Relocation Assistance Available

We are seeking a fulltime Physical Therapist Assistant to join a fun, collaborative team of 3 Physical Therapists at our growing Santa Monica, CA outpatient clinic. The caseload is primarily orthopedic, with a strong emphasis on sports medicine. Onsite mentorship is available from a Physical Therapist with an Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS) certification, making this an excellent opportunity for continued learning, professional development, and career growth. 

Join our highly trained and respected physical therapy team dedicated to providing preventative and rehabilitative care that enhances quality of life for the communities where we live and work.

*1 year experience required*

Why Join Us:

  • Start Strong: Our mentorship and orientation programs ensure a successful transition
  • Recharge & Refresh: Generous PTO to maintain a healthy work-life balance
  • Your Health Matters: Comprehensive medical/RX, health, vision, and dental plan offerings
  • Invest in Your Future: Company-matching 401(k) retirement plans as well as life and disability protection
  • Elevate Your Skills: Unmatched CEU program 
  • Go Anywhere with Us: 1900 centers in 39 states, offering internal movement
  • Advance your Career: Our Outpatient Clinical Advancement Program supports professional growth and clinical expertise with bonus incentives
Responsibilities
  • Responsible for patient care under the direction and supervision of a licensed physical therapist as mandated by State Practice Act.
  • Implement, with minimal supervision, high quality physical therapy services for patients, caregivers and facilities in accordance with the principals and practices of physical therapy and with Select Medical policies and procedures
  • Maintain positive level of interaction with centers and patients, and enhance and expand client relations with centers and their staff.
Qualifications
  • College graduate of an accredited physical therapist assistant program
  • Passed a national examination for PTAs certified by the CAPTE
  • Valid state physical therapist assistant (PTA) license (or license in process)
  • CPR certification
  • Minimum of 1 year experience required
Additional Data

Equal Opportunity Employer/including Disabled/Veterans

Employment Type: OTHER

What Select Physical Therapy employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About Select Physical Therapy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Select Physical Therapy is a leading physical therapy service provider in the United States, based in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania. The organization operates within the healthcare industry, specializing in physical therapy, athletic training services, sports medicine, and work health services. As an integral part of the broader health care community, Select Physical Therapy places a strong emphasis on helping patients overcome injuries, manage chronic conditions, recover after surgeries, and maintain an overall healthy lifestyle. Ever since its establishment, the company has been delivering effective and individualized in-person and tele-rehab services to meet each patient's unique needs.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

King of Prussia, PA, US

Year founded

1996

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