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Physical Therapy Assistant Jobs in Rochester, NY

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Physical Therapy Assistant information

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How much do physical therapy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for physical therapy assistant in Rochester, NY is $31.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.59 and $35.10 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 Rochester, NY?

The most popular types of Physical Therapy jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Physical Therapy Assistant jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Physical Therapy Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Physical Therapy Assistant job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,564 per year, or $31.5 per hour.

Physical Therapy Assistant - Acute Care

Rochester Regional Health

Rochester, NY • On-site

$22.60 - $32/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Rochester Regional Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 220 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

303rd of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

SUMMARY
As a Physical Therapy Assistant, your ability to work collaboratively, diligently, and creatively will play an imperative role in your patients' rehabilitation success through compassion and patient-focused care.
STATUS: Full-time
LOCATION: Rochester General Hospital -1445 Portland Ave, Rochester, NY 14621
DEPARTMENT: Physical Therapy
SCHEDULE: Days, either 5 8-hr. shifts (Tuesday-Saturday) or 4 10-hr. shifts (Wednesday-Saturday)
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Team. Assist in implementation of new programs and procedures; assist in mentoring and training new team members; Contribute creative ideas to add to treatment programs
  • Treatment. Implement physical therapy treatments as planned and directed by a physical therapist; provide home instruction and assistive equipment if necessary
  • Patient Care. Provide a safe environment and Physical Therapy techniques for patients; Inspire confidence from patients, families, and staff by performing and communicating in a highly professional manner

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Two-year college degree as a Physical Therapist Assistant.
  • 3 months of experience derived through educational fieldwork
  • Excellent communications skills
  • Required Licensure/Certification Skills: New York State License required
  • Patient-focused, with demonstrated care and compassion

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: None
EDUCATION:
LICENSES / CERTIFICATIONS:
PTA - Physical Therapist Assistant certification - New York State Education Department (NYSED)New York State Education Department (NYSED)
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
M - Medium Work - Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects; Requires frequent walking, standing or squatting.
For disease specific care programs refer to the program specific requirements of the department for further specifications on experience and educational expectations, including continuing education requirements.
Any physical requirements reported by a prospective employee and/or employee's physician or delegate will be considered for accommodations.
PAY RANGE:
$22.60 - $32.00
CITY:
Rochester
POSTAL CODE:
14621
The listed base pay range is a good faith representation of current potential base pay for a successful full time applicant. It may be modified in the future and eligible for additional pay components. Pay is determined by factors including experience, relevant qualifications, specialty, internal equity, location, and contracts.
Rochester Regional Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, predisposing genetic characteristics, marital or familial status, military or veteran status, citizenship or immigration status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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