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Pt Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CommonSpirit Health

PT Assistant

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$28.50 - $37.50/hr

One California As our PT Assistant, you will be a vital clinical support, meticulously implementing physical therapy treatment programs and providing critical feedback toward patient recovery. Every ...

St Elizabeth Community Hospital

PT Assistant

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$43.53 - $48.06/hr

Job Summary and Responsibilities As our PT Assistant, you will be a vital clinical support, meticulously implementing physical therapy treatment programs and providing critical feedback toward ...

St Elizabeth Community Hospital

PT Assistant

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$43.53 - $48.06/hr

One California Job Summary and Responsibilities As our PT Assistant, you will be a vital clinical support, meticulously implementing physical therapy treatment programs and providing critical ...

Powerback Rehabilitation

PT Assistant

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$40/hr

Physical Therapist Assistant Location/work environment: In facility Reporting structure: Reporting to Director of Rehab As a Physical Therapist Assistant, you help patients get well. You are the ...

Powerback Rehabilitation

PT Assistant

Carmichael, CA · On-site

$40/hr

Physical Therapist Assistant Location/work environment: In facility Reporting structure: Reporting to Director of Rehab As a Physical Therapist Assistant, you help patients get well. You are the ...

Powerback Rehabilitation

PT Assistant

Hemet, CA · On-site

$40/hr

Physical Therapist Assistant Location/work environment: In facility Reporting structure: Reporting to Director of Rehab As a Physical Therapist Assistant, you help patients get well. You are the ...

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All JobsPt JobsPt Assistant JobsPt Assistant Jobs in California

Pt Assistant information

What is a PT assistant?

PT Assistants, or Physical Therapist Assistants, are healthcare professionals who work under the supervision of physical therapists to help patients recover from injuries, manage pain, and improve mobility. They assist with exercises, therapeutic activities, and education, as well as documenting patient progress. PT Assistants play a crucial role in implementing care plans and ensuring patients follow prescribed therapy routines.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a PT assistant?

To thrive as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA), you need a solid understanding of therapeutic exercise, patient care techniques, and anatomy, usually supported by an associate degree from an accredited PTA program and state licensure. Familiarity with rehabilitation equipment, electronic medical records (EMR) systems, and modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and effective communication help PTAs motivate patients and collaborate with physical therapists and healthcare teams. These competencies ensure safe, effective patient rehabilitation and contribute to positive patient outcomes in various clinical settings.

What challenges do PT assistants face when working with diverse patient populations?

Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs) often work with patients from various backgrounds, age groups, and with a wide range of conditions. One common challenge is adapting communication and treatment techniques to meet each patient's individual needs and abilities. PTAs must also be sensitive to cultural differences and language barriers, which may require extra patience and creativity. Building rapport and trust is essential for encouraging patient participation and progress. Teamwork with physical therapists and other healthcare professionals is crucial to address these challenges effectively and ensure the best outcomes for patients.

What is the difference between Pt Assistant vs Physical Therapist?

AspectPt AssistantPhysical Therapist
CredentialsCertified or licensed as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)Licensed Physical Therapist (PT) with a doctoral degree
Work EnvironmentClinics, hospitals, outpatient facilities, rehab centersSimilar settings, often overseeing PTAs
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist PTs in implementing treatment plans, patient exercises, and documenting progressDevelops treatment plans, evaluates patients, and supervises PTAs

The main difference between a Pt Assistant and a Physical Therapist is that PTAs assist in implementing treatment plans under supervision, while Physical Therapists develop those plans and oversee patient care. Both roles work closely in similar environments, but PTs hold advanced credentials and responsibilities.

Is it hard to become a physical therapy assistant?

Becoming a physical therapy assistant typically requires completing an accredited associate degree program and obtaining licensure or certification, which involves passing a national exam. The process demands dedication to coursework, clinical training, and maintaining continuing education to stay licensed.

What are the most commonly searched types of Pt jobs in California?

The most popular types of Pt jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Pt Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Pt Assistant job openings:

Pt Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pt Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

PT Assistant

St Elizabeth Community Hospital

Red Bluff, CA

$43.53 - $48.06/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description


Job Summary and Responsibilities

As our PT Assistant, you will be a vital clinical support, meticulously implementing physical therapy treatment programs and providing critical feedback toward patient recovery.

Every day, you'll execute individual patient treatment programs developed by the physical therapist, guiding patients through exercises and activities. You'll provide objective feedback on patient and caregiver performance, collaborate with the supervising PT, and contribute directly to rehabilitation goals.

To be successful, you'll combine strong clinical skill implementation with excellent observation, communication, and a compassionate approach, directly contributing to effective physical rehab outcomes.

Job Requirements

Required

  • PT Assistants providing independent case coverage in Pediatrics will have a minimum of 1 year pediatric experience
  • Successful completion of a two-year college program for physical therapists assistants, which has been accredited by the Committee on Accreditation in Education, American Physical Therapy Association and/or possession of a valid license to practice as a Physical Therapist Assistant in the State of California
  • Current CA PTA license
  • Current Automobile Insurance required
  • BLS CPR Certification (Must be through the American Heart Association)
  • Ability to perform duties and make decisions in stressful situations and prioritize patient needs and other duties
Where You'll Work

Founded in 1906, Dignity Health - St. Elizabeth Community Hospital is a 76-bed, acute care, nonprofit hospital located in Red Bluff, California. Serving over 90,000 patients annually, the hospital offers a full complement of services including a Level III Trauma Center, heart care, cancer care, and a family birth center. Additionally, St. Elizabeth Community Hospital, has been recognized as an LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality High Performer by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation and is a Joint Commission-certified Primary Stroke Center. It has been named a Top Rural Hospital by The Leapfrog Group for two consecutive years, one of only 16 rural hospitals in the US to achieve this award.

One Community. One Mission. One California 

Qualifications:

Required

  • PT Assistants providing independent case coverage in Pediatrics will have a minimum of 1 year pediatric experience
  • Successful completion of a two-year college program for physical therapists assistants, which has been accredited by the Committee on Accreditation in Education, American Physical Therapy Association and/or possession of a valid license to practice as a Physical Therapist Assistant in the State of California
  • Current CA PTA license
  • Current Automobile Insurance required
  • BLS CPR Certification (Must be through the American Heart Association)
  • Ability to perform duties and make decisions in stressful situations and prioritize patient needs and other duties
Employment Type: Full Time

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