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Physical Therapy Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Physical Therapy Assistant

Clarion, IA ยท On-site

$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

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 patient care ...

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 ...

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Physical Therapy Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$16

$30

$41

How much do physical therapy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for physical therapy assistant in Iowa is $30.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.29 and $33.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a physical therapy assistant?

To thrive as a Physical Therapy Assistant, you need a solid understanding of anatomy, therapeutic exercise techniques, and must hold an associate degree from an accredited PTA program along with state licensure. Familiarity with rehabilitation equipment, documentation software, and understanding of HIPAA regulations are typically required. Excellent interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to motivate patients are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure effective patient care, compliance with regulations, and successful rehabilitation outcomes.

What are some common challenges physical therapy assistants face when working with diverse patient populations?

Physical Therapy Assistants help patients during rehabilitation from injury, surgery, or a chronic condition. They work under the direction of a Primary Physical Therapist. As a Physical Therapy Assistant, you work with patients on exercises, stretches, and therapies prescribed by their doctor and physical therapist. Before they start workouts, you may set up heat or cold therapy for the patients to enable them to relax their muscles and reduce pain. You then instruct the patients on how to perform the treatments prescribed by their doctor and the physical therapist. Examples of exercises used during physical therapy include arm lifts on a weight machine, pedaling on a stationary bike, or forward lunges. You move with the patient from station to station, ensuring they have proper form, and document their progress.

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

AspectPhysical Therapy AssistantPhysical Therapist
CredentialsAssociate's degree in Physical Therapy Assisting, licensure or certificationBachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree in Physical Therapy, state licensure
Work EnvironmentAssist in patient care under supervision, clinics, hospitals, rehab centersEvaluate patients, develop treatment plans, oversee assistants
Employer & IndustryHospitals, outpatient clinics, rehab facilitiesHospitals, private practices, clinics, research settings

The main difference is that Physical Therapy Assistants support Physical Therapists by providing hands-on care under supervision, while Physical Therapists evaluate patients and create treatment plans. Both roles work closely in similar settings, but the Physical Therapist has a broader scope of practice and advanced credentials.

Is becoming a physical therapy assistant difficult?

Becoming a physical therapy assistant requires completing an accredited associate degree program and passing a licensing exam, which involves coursework in anatomy, physiology, and patient care. The program can be challenging due to the technical knowledge and clinical skills needed, but with dedication and proper training, it is achievable for many students.

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

The most popular types of Physical Therapy jobs in Iowa are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Physical Therapy Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,414 per year, or $30 per hour.

Physical Therapy Assistant

ROCK VALLEY PHYSICAL THERAPY CENTER

Sioux City, IA โ€ข On-site

$27.75 - $36.50/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Job Description
Job Description

Rock Valley Physical Therapy is seeking a motivated Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) to join our team in Sioux City, IA. In this role, you will work alongside our experienced therapists to provide exceptional patient care and help individuals achieve their rehabilitation goals.

Qualifications

  • Graduate of an accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program
  • Eligible for licensure in the State of Iowa
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Demonstrated leadership abilities and independent thinking
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with all members of the clinic team
  • Proficiency with computer applications and electronic documentation systems

For more than 40 years Rock Valley Physical Therapy continues to be therapist owned and led. Our clinicians have served our local communities with exceptional patient care; are recognized by patients and referring providers as the place for rehabilitative solutions. We offer a competitive salary, bonus and benefit package including health insurance, profit share, 401k retirement plan and exceptional working environment.

Rock Valley is committed to hiring the most qualified candidate for each opening. All candidates will be given equal consideration. The position will be filled based on the experience and skills required for the position.

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