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Physical Therapy Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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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 Aug 14, 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 is a physical therapy instructor?

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.
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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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,028 per year, or $52.4 per hour.

Physical Therapist/Adaptive PE Instructor

mayinstitute

Wilmington, MA

$75K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Physical Therapist &

Adapted Physical Education (APE) Instructor

May Center School, Wilmington, MA | Full-Time

Position Summary

Are you prepared to ignite change and transform lives in the field of special education? Leap into an exciting opportunity as a Physical Therapist /Adapted Physical Education (APE) Instructor at May Center School for Autism and Developmental Disabilities in Wilmington, MA. The Physical Therapist /Adapted Physical Education (APE) Instructor provides consultative physical therapy and adapted physical education programming to support students’ gross motor development, independence, safety, and overall well-being. This role assesses student needs, develops individualized goals, trains school staff, and collaborates with educational and clinical teams to support student progress.

 

What You’ll Do

  • Conduct formal and informal physical therapy assessments and develop individualized goals and recommendations.
  • Provide consultative physical therapy services based on student needs and established schedules.
  • Design and lead Adapted Physical Education classes, including warm-ups, group activities, and gross motor instruction.
  • Collaborate with teachers and clinical team members to develop and implement gross motor goals within students’ IEPs.
  • Complete progress notes, evaluations, reports, IEP documentation, and other required records.
  • Train, observe, and provide ongoing consultation and feedback to staff implementing physical therapy and APE programming.
  • Collaborate with nursing, educational, clinical, and allied health professionals to adjust therapeutic strategies and recommend adaptive equipment.
  • Implement individualized educational and behavioral programs, collect data, and support students with academics, daily living skills, vocational tasks, and challenging behaviors.
  • Participate in team, IEP, progress review, family, and school district meetings as requested.
  • Promote student safety, dignity, independence, confidentiality, choice, and human rights throughout all programming.

 

What You Bring

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree from an accredited Physical Therapy program.
  • Current state licensure and required national credentials as a Physical Therapist.
  • Experience conducting assessments and developing physical therapy, adapted physical education, or gross motor programming.
  • Knowledge of Individualized Education Programs, Progress reporting, and educational documentation.
  • Understanding of Applied Behavior Analysis or willingness to develop proficiency in ABA-based practices.
  • Strong communication, collaboration, training, organization, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work effectively with students, families, educators, clinicians, and other school professionals.
  • Ability to perform the physical requirements of the position, including lifting, pushing, pulling, reaching, and assisting with gross motor activities.

 

Why Join Us?

  • Comprehensive Health Benefits:Stay covered with competitive medical, dental, and vision insurance. 
  • Investing in Your Growth:Level up your skills with paid training and certification opportunities. 
  • Support When You Need It:Access confidential support and guidance through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP). 
  • Financially Generous Paid Time Off:Dive into relaxation with ample vacation time, 10 paid holidays, and 19 PTO days to start. Plus, celebrate your birthday with a floating holiday just for you! 
  • Flexibility:Enjoy benefits such as a dependent care flexible spending account (FSA), LTD and STD insurance coverage options, and voluntary benefit choices. 
  • Investing in Your Education:Pursue your educational goals with our tuition reimbursement and loan repayment assistance programs. 
  • Secure Your Future:Plan for retirement with confidence through our 403(b) retirement plan with employer match.

Compensation: $75,000-$80,000

Join us and discover a culture that cherishes your well-being and invests in your bright future!