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Physical Therapy Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CA · On-site

The LACCD is accepting applications for Respiratory Therapy Instructor- Associate of Arts, Adjunct ... Physical ability to perform the duties of the position; * Demonstrated sufficient level of ...

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Physical Therapy Instructor information

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$53.5K

$109K

$152K

How much do physical therapy instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for physical therapy instructor in the United States is $109,028.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $138,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Physical Therapy Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Physical Therapy Instructor, you need advanced knowledge of physical therapy principles, a graduate degree (often DPT or higher), and relevant teaching or clinical experience. Familiarity with learning management systems, teaching technologies, and up-to-date licensure or certifications such as PT or DPT are typically required. Excellent communication, mentorship, and organizational skills distinguish outstanding instructors, fostering positive learning environments. These competencies ensure effective knowledge transfer, student engagement, and the development of future skilled physical therapists.

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

AspectPhysical Therapy InstructorPhysical Therapist
CredentialsTypically requires a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree and teaching certificationRequires a DPT degree and state licensure
Work EnvironmentEducational settings, universities, collegesClinics, hospitals, outpatient facilities, private practices
Primary FocusTeaching, curriculum development, student supervisionPatient assessment, treatment planning, rehabilitation
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, academic settingsHealthcare facilities, private practices, hospitals

While both roles require a DPT degree and licensure, a Physical Therapy Instructor primarily focuses on teaching and training students in academic settings, whereas a Physical Therapist provides direct patient care in clinical environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Physical Therapy Instructors in balancing teaching and clinical responsibilities?

Physical Therapy Instructors often juggle teaching courses, mentoring students, and maintaining their own clinical practice or research. This balancing act can be challenging, as staying current with clinical advancements while ensuring high-quality instruction and student engagement requires strong organizational skills. Instructors may need to coordinate with colleagues for shared teaching loads, manage time effectively to fulfill both academic and clinical commitments, and continually seek professional development opportunities. Effective communication and collaboration with other faculty members and clinical partners are key to managing these responsibilities successfully.

What are Physical Therapy Instructors?

Physical Therapy Instructors are professionals who teach and train students or practicing therapists in the field of physical therapy. They typically work at universities, colleges, or specialized training programs, providing both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical guidance. Their responsibilities include developing curricula, mentoring students, and staying updated on the latest practices and research in physical therapy. These instructors play a crucial role in preparing future physical therapists to deliver effective, evidence-based care.
More about Physical Therapy Instructor jobs
What cities are hiring for Physical Therapy Instructor jobs? Cities with the most Physical Therapy Instructor job openings:
What states have the most Physical Therapy Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Physical Therapy Instructor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Physical Therapy Instructor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% As Needed, 26% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 30% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,028 per year, or $52.4 per hour.

Adjunct Respiratory Therapy Instructor

Southeast Technical College

Sioux Falls, SD • On-site

Part-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Location : Sullivan Health Center 2300 N Career Ave Sioux Falls, SD, SD
Job Type: Adjunct Instructor
Job Number: 00334
Division: Academic Affairs
Department: Health
Opening Date: 02/27/2026
Closing Date: 8/28/2026 11:59 PM Central
Position Summary
The adjunct instructor will provide instruction and assess student learning in the area of respiratory therapy at Southeast Technical College (STC) to prepare students for an entry-level position in that field. The adjunct instructor will continually assess and enhance the curriculum to meet the program's educational requirements, the rules and regulations of its accrediting bodies, and the most current industry standards. For more information regarding this position, please contact the hiring manager, Deb Letcher, at 605-367-5691.
Essential Functions
  • Develop and teach relevant curriculum that provides classroom theory and laboratory application and prepares students for entry-level positions in the field.
  • Facilitate class instruction in accordance with learning objectives and session plan outlines specified by STC.
  • Teach the course in ways and methods that engages student learning.
  • Establish a positive student learning environment that promotes retention, accountability, diversity, equity, excellence, innovation, collaboration, dignity, self-respect, safety, student success and personal and professional growth.
  • Select and compile tests, assignments and/or online discussion exercises that permit measurement of performance relative to standardized learning objectives.
  • Evaluate student performance by administering evaluations of student performance based on course deliverables and course rubrics.
  • Respond promptly to student grade determination by reporting assignments, discussion board exercises, exams, and course completion through the learning management system.
  • Follow developed syllabus for learning activities.
  • Adhere to protocol guidelines for participation in online learning as determined by the course.
  • Review textbook and courseware changes with the Associate Dean of Curriculum and Instruction and the full-time faculty teaching Respiratory Therapy.
  • In accordance with industry and educational standards of STC, review curriculum and assess course competencies to ensure students are meeting industry standards.
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Position Qualifications
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in respiratory therapy preferred; Associate's degree in Respiratory Therapy required
  • Experience:
    1. Minimum of five years of work experience in the respiratory therapy industry or related field required.
    2. Demonstrate knowledge of respiratory therapy.
    3. Post-secondary teaching experience preferred.

Registration as a board-certified respiratory therapist required. Licensed in the state of South Dakota.
Physical Demands and Work Environment
General classroom environment with standard equipment available during classroom instruction. Lighting and temperature are adequate for course delivery. Moderate noise levels typical of a classroom environment. May be exposed to outdoor weather conditions when traveling outside the classroom.
This position is not eligible for benefits.