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Physical Therapy Assistant Instructor Jobs in Iowa

Physical Therapy Assistant

Clarion, IA

$25.25 - $33.25/hr

PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT - CLARION WELLNESS & REHABILITATION PRN: Flexible Schedule, Be Appreciated by Your Employer To apply feel free to contact Angie Taylor at 913-444-2828 or angeltaylor ...

Physical Therapy Assistant

Cedar Rapids, IA ยท On-site

$27.75 - $36.75/hr

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 ...

Physical Therapy Assistant

Fort Dodge, IA ยท On-site

$40 - $50/hr

Physical Therapy Assistant * Discipline: Therapy * Duration: Ongoing * Employment Type: Staff Overview: You've built your career on helping others move. Now, let us help you move your career to the ...

Physical Therapy Assistant

Bettendorf, IA ยท On-site

$24.50 - $36.76/hr

Overview Are you a Physical Therapy Assistant looking for a flexible, rewarding role that fits your schedule and allows you to make a meaningful impact? Join our team as a PRN Physical Therapy ...

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Physical Therapy Assistant Instructor information

See Iowa salary details

$33.8K

$64.8K

$101.4K

How much do physical therapy assistant instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for physical therapy assistant instructor in Iowa is $64,815.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,000.00 and $86,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a physical therapy assistant instructor?

Physical Therapy Assistant Instructors are professionals who teach and train students pursuing careers as physical therapist assistants (PTAs). They develop and deliver coursework, supervise clinical experiences, and ensure that students gain the necessary knowledge and skills for entry-level PTA positions. Instructors may work in community colleges, technical schools, or universities and often have both clinical and teaching experience in physical therapy. Their role is crucial in preparing students to pass licensure exams and provide quality patient care. Additionally, they may participate in curriculum development and assessment to maintain program accreditation.

What does a physical therapy assistant instructor do?

As a physical therapy assistant instructor, you teach classes to help students learn about physical therapy as well as the skills they need to become a physical therapy assistant or PTA. Your duties are to monitor, educate, and advise students as they go through the program and offer resources. Your responsibilities include distributing a course syllabus, training students in physical therapy, using technology to teach, assisting other colleagues in the development of curriculum, taking attendance, and submitting grades and reports. A physical therapy assistant instructor must stay up-to-date on trends and issues both within the educational environment and the physical therapy field.

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

To thrive as a Physical Therapy Assistant Instructor, you need a solid background in physical therapy, an associate or bachelor's degree in the field, and a current PTA license, often coupled with teaching experience. Familiarity with educational technology, electronic documentation systems, and instructional materials is typically required. Excellent communication, mentorship abilities, and organizational skills help instructors engage students and foster a positive learning environment. These competencies ensure that future PTAs are well-prepared to deliver safe, effective patient care and adapt to evolving healthcare standards.

What are some common challenges faced by physical therapy assistant instructors, and how can they be addressed?

Physical Therapy Assistant Instructors often encounter challenges such as keeping course material up to date with evolving clinical practices, managing diverse student learning styles, and balancing classroom instruction with hands-on lab supervision. Staying connected with current industry standards through ongoing education and professional development can help maintain curriculum relevance. Additionally, using a variety of teaching methods and fostering open communication can address different student needs and create an engaging learning environment.

What is the difference between Physical Therapy Assistant Instructor vs Physical Therapy Assistant?

AspectPhysical Therapy Assistant InstructorPhysical Therapy Assistant
CredentialsPTA license, instructor certification or teaching credentialsPTA license, certification in physical therapy assisting
Work EnvironmentEducational settings, classrooms, labsClinics, hospitals, outpatient facilities
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, colleges, universitiesHealthcare providers, rehabilitation centers

The main difference is that a Physical Therapy Assistant Instructor teaches and trains future PTAs in educational settings, requiring teaching credentials, while a Physical Therapy Assistant works directly with patients in clinical environments to assist in rehabilitation. Both roles require PTA licensure, but their work settings and responsibilities differ significantly.

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Physical Therapy Assistant Instructor jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Physical Therapy Assistant Instructor job openings:

Infographic showing various Physical Therapy Assistant Instructor job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $64,815 per year, or $31.2 per hour.

Physical Therapy Assistant

ROCK VALLEY PHYSICAL THERAPY CENTER

Burlington, IA โ€ข On-site

$27 - $35.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Rock Valley Physical Therapy is seeking a skilled and dedicated Physical Therapist Assistant to join our exceptional team of professionals. In this role, you’ll deliver high-quality, individualized care that truly makes a difference in patients’ lives while enjoying a positive and upbeat workplace. You’ll have the chance to work with a diverse patient population, collaborate with experienced practitioners committed to clinical excellence, and have fun along the way.

We’re seeking candidates who are strong communicators and analytical thinkers and who also bring curiosity, creativity, and a collaborative spirit to our workplace. If you thrive on solving challenges and making a positive impact every day, you’ll feel right at home at Rock Valley.

We are dedicated to finding the best fit for every role, no matter where you are in your career journey. We give every applicant equal consideration and fill each position based on the skills and experience that matter most. A Physical Therapy Assistant license is a must, but don’t worry if you’re just starting out; new graduates are encouraged to apply!

What you’ll Do:

  • Provide skilled physical therapy interventions to improve strength, mobility, pain management, function, and overall quality of life.
  • Monitor patient progress and modify treatment plans as appropriate.
  • Educate patients and families on home exercise programs, injury prevention, and long-term wellness.
  • Collaborate with physicians and other health care professionals and community partners.
  • Contribute to a positive, supportive, and team-oriented clinical environment.

Why Join Our Team:

We invest in our therapists, and we make sure you love coming to work! At Rock Valley, fun and professional growth go hand in hand.

  • We offer a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package
  • Sign-on bonus
  • A generous annual CE allowance for professionals
  • Dedicated professional development opportunities 
  • Built-in scribe assistance for our EMR enhances work-life balance
  • Mentorship programs for new graduates and early-career therapists (Rock U and Rock U 2)
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Retirement plan with employer contribution
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance 
  • Opportunities for advancement and leadership
  • Enjoy opportunities to work with a diverse patient population.

Apply today and take the first step toward joining the Rock Valley Physical Therapy team.