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Physical Therapy Internship Program Jobs in Chicago, IL

Wellness Programs: Including weight-loss and lifestyle coaching, digital mental-health support, and ... experience (Physical Therapist Aide/Technician, Medical Assistant, hospital employment ...

Physical Therapy Aide

Oak Lawn, IL ยท On-site

$16.07 - $18.07/hr

Wellness Programs: Including weight-loss and lifestyle coaching, digital mental-health support, and ... experience (Physical Therapist Aide/Technician, Medical Assistant, hospital employment ...

Wellness Programs: Including weight-loss and lifestyle coaching, digital mental-health support, and ... experience (Physical Therapist Aide/Technician, Medical Assistant, hospital employment ...

Physical Therapy Aide

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$17.05 - $19.05/hr

Wellness Programs: Including weight-loss and lifestyle coaching, digital mental-health support, and ... experience (Physical Therapist Aide/Technician, Medical Assistant, hospital employment ...

Physical Therapy Aide

IN ยท On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Wellness Programs: Including weight-loss and lifestyle coaching, digital mental-health support, and ... experience (Physical Therapist Aide/Technician, Medical Assistant, hospital employment ...

Physical Therapy Aide

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$17.05 - $19.05/hr

Wellness Programs: Including weight-loss and lifestyle coaching, digital mental-health support, and ... experience (Physical Therapist Aide/Technician, Medical Assistant, hospital employment ...

Wellness Programs: Including weight-loss and lifestyle coaching, digital mental-health support, and ... experience (Physical Therapist Aide/Technician, Medical Assistant, hospital employment ...

Wellness Programs: Including weight-loss and lifestyle coaching, digital mental-health support, and ... experience (Physical Therapist Aide/Technician, Medical Assistant, hospital employment ...

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Showing results 1-20

Physical Therapy Internship Program information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$44.3K

$92.4K

$148.3K

How much do physical therapy internship program jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for physical therapy internship program in Chicago, IL is $92,366.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,400.00 and $119,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a physical therapy internship program?

A Physical Therapy Internship Program is a structured learning experience designed for students or recent graduates interested in becoming physical therapists. During the program, interns gain hands-on clinical experience under the supervision of licensed physical therapists, allowing them to apply academic knowledge to real-world patient care. These internships help students develop practical skills, understand the day-to-day responsibilities of a physical therapist, and fulfill educational or licensing requirements. Interns may work in hospitals, private clinics, rehabilitation centers, or other healthcare settings. Participation in such programs can be an important step toward a career in physical therapy.

What types of hands-on experience can I expect during a physical therapy internship program?

During a Physical Therapy Internship Program, you can expect to gain hands-on experience by assisting licensed physical therapists with patient assessments, creating and modifying treatment plans, and guiding patients through therapeutic exercises. Interns often observe and participate in various rehabilitation techniques, learn to document patient progress, and may also help with administrative tasks related to patient care. This immersive experience not only builds clinical skills but also offers valuable insights into patient communication and teamwork within a healthcare setting.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a physical therapy internship program, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Physical Therapy Internship Program, you need foundational knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and rehabilitation principles, often gained through coursework in a physical therapy or related health sciences program. Familiarity with therapy equipment, documentation systems, and compliance with HIPAA regulations is typically required. Strong interpersonal communication, empathy, and adaptability help interns build rapport with patients and integrate into clinical teams. These skills are crucial for delivering effective patient care, learning from real-world experience, and preparing for future licensure as a physical therapist.

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

AspectPhysical Therapy Internship ProgramPhysical Therapist Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically enrolled students; no certification requiredAssociate's degree; licensure/certification required
Work EnvironmentEducational settings, clinics, hospitals during trainingClinics, hospitals, outpatient facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, internship programsHealthcare facilities, outpatient clinics
Common Search & Comparison IntentLearning opportunities, training programsCareer roles, job responsibilities

The Physical Therapy Internship Program is designed for students gaining hands-on experience during their education, often without certification. In contrast, a Physical Therapist Assistant is a licensed healthcare professional with an associate's degree, working directly with patients under supervision. While internships focus on training, assistants are employed in clinical settings to provide patient care. Both roles are essential in the physical therapy field but differ in credentials, responsibilities, and career stage.

What are popular job titles related to Physical Therapy Internship Program jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Physical Therapy Internship Program jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Physical Therapy Internship Program jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Physical Therapy Internship Program jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Physical Therapy Internship Program jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Physical Therapy Internship Program job openings:

Infographic showing various Physical Therapy Internship Program job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Internship, 50% Full Time, and 44% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $92,366 per year, or $44.4 per hour.

Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA)

Fox Valley Orthopaedic Associates

Algonquin, IL โ€ข On-site

$29 - $34/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)

Location: Algonquin, Illinois

Status: Full-Time (40 Hours/Week)

Days/Hours: Days and hours may vary (no weekends)

Pay Rates (depending on experience): $29 - $34

Summary

Responsible for carrying out the orders and care plan of the Physical Therapist. Their responsibilities will align with the Fox Valley Orthopedics mission, vision, and values for developing a high performing team which consistently delivers growth and extraordinary customer outcomes. The incumbents will directly report to the Fox Valley Orthopedic Physical Therapy Manager.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The essential duties and responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

  • Assist in and/or prepare patients.
  • At times, work independently with a Physical Therapist available via phone, except for Medicare patients where a licensed Physical Therapist must be always on the premises.
  • Able to use modalities, soft tissue work including massage as ordered by the Physical Therapist.
  • Document per physician's prescription.
  • Bill patients accordingly.
  • Adhere to policies and procedures including vacation, attendance / punctuality.
  • Attend staff meetings, as ordered.
  • Assists with student internship programs, as needed.
  • Schedule patients per the prescribed metrics.
  • Complete required paperwork within 24 hours of the patient appointment (documentation and billing).
  • Instruct patients and family in an effective and professional manner.
  • Maintain clean, safe working environment to facilitate quality of patient care and efficient operations.
  • Recommend appropriate supplies and equipment.
  • Recognize and respond appropriately in emergency situations.
  • Attend continued education programs as approved by the Clinic Manager to ensure treatment procedures are state of the art.
  • Assist in developing new programs.
  • Maintain positive behavior at work with internal / external customers.
  • Exhibit a willingness to adopt to changing environment including coverage at various locations.
  • Maintain appropriate confidentiality.
  • Achieve goals and strives to improve quality.
  • Aware of prescribed metrics for efficiency and productivity.
  • Communicate with doctors in a timely manner regarding patient status changes or treatment questions.
  • Notifies/documents patient discharge to doctors.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

Education and/or Experience

Required:

  • Graduate of a certified two (2) year Physical Therapist Assistant Program.
  • Current State of Illinois license to practice.

Preferred:

  • CPR/AED Certification

Benefits

  • Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Holiday Pay
  • 401k/Profit Sharing