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Physical Therapy Assistant Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

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Physical Therapy Assistant information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$16

$28

$40

How much do physical therapy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for physical therapy assistant in Rio Rancho, NM is $28.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $32.07 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 Rio Rancho, NM?

The most popular types of Physical Therapy jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:

What are popular job titles related to Physical Therapy Assistant jobs in Rio Rancho, NM?

For Physical Therapy Assistant jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Physical Therapy Assistant jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for?

The top searched job categories for Physical Therapy Assistant jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:

What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Physical Therapy Assistant jobs?

Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Physical Therapy Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Physical Therapy Assistant job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,931 per year, or $28.8 per hour.

Physical Therapy Assistant / PTA

Lovelace Health System

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$27 - $35.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Lovelace Health System rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Overview
Join our team as a day shift, full-time, Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) in Albuquerque, NM.
Why Join Us?
Thrive in a People-First Environment and Make Healthcare Better
  • Thrive: We empower our team with career growth opportunities, tuition assistance, and resources that support your wellness, education, and financial well-being.
  • People-First: We prioritize your well-being with paid time off, comprehensive health benefits, and a supportive, inclusive culture where you are valued and cared for.
  • Make Healthcare Better: We use advanced technology to support our team and enhance patient care.

Get to Know Your Team:
  • Lovelace Medical Center is an acute care hospital with 263 licensed beds, providing comprehensive care, including around-the-clock emergency care, surgical services, non-invasive robotic spine surgery, stroke care, radiology, and oncology services.

Responsibilities
Provides therapy treatment to patients with developmental, physical, cognitive, and/or emotional impairments, disabilities, and/or handicaps under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist. Adheres to policies, procedures, and regulations to ensure compliance and patient safety.
Qualifications
Job Requirements:
  • Associate's Degree in Physical Therapy Assistant.
  • Licensed or licensure-eligible PTA in the State of New Mexico.
  • BLS certification must be obtained within 14 days of hire or transfer into the role and prior to providing direct patient care.

Preferred Job Requirements:
  • One (1) year related experience.

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