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School Based Physical Therapy Jobs in Riverside, CA

Physical Therapist

Irvine, CA · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Provide evidence-based physical therapy care focused on return to performance, not just return to play. * Design and implement individualized treatment plans that align with sport demands, injury ...

PHYSICAL THERAPIST

Loma Linda, CA · On-site

$55 - $60.64/hr

... based physical therapy interventions for infants, children, and young adults within Totally Kids (Acute, Subacute, Outpatient & Circlebrook). The Physical Therapist collaborates with an ...

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School Based Physical Therapy information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$5

$37

$82

How much do school based physical therapy jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for school based physical therapy in Riverside, CA is $37.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.60 and $49.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is school based physical therapy?

School based physical therapy is a specialized service provided within educational settings to help students with physical disabilities or challenges access and participate in their educational programs. Physical therapists work as part of a team to support students' mobility, motor skills, and independence, ensuring they can navigate the school environment and participate in classroom activities. The services are tailored to each student's needs and are typically documented in an Individualized Education Program (IEP).

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a school based physical therapist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a School Based Physical Therapist, you need a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, state licensure, and a strong understanding of pediatric development and motor skills. Familiarity with individualized education programs (IEPs), adaptive equipment, and electronic documentation systems is typically required. Excellent communication, patience, and creativity help build rapport with students, collaborate with educators, and tailor interventions. These skills ensure effective support for students' physical needs, maximizing their participation and success in the educational environment.

What are some typical challenges faced by school based physical therapists when working with students across different grade levels?

School-based physical therapists often encounter the challenge of adapting treatment plans to meet the diverse developmental and educational needs of students ranging from preschoolers to high schoolers. Each age group requires different therapeutic approaches, communication styles, and collaboration with teachers and parents. Additionally, therapists must balance their caseloads while ensuring that all interventions are integrated into the students’ educational environments, often requiring creative scheduling and strong teamwork with special education staff. Building rapport with students of varying abilities and backgrounds is also key to achieving positive outcomes.

What is the difference between School Based Physical Therapy vs Pediatric Physical Therapist?

AspectSchool Based Physical TherapyPediatric Physical Therapist
CredentialsLicensed Physical Therapist (PT)Licensed Physical Therapist (PT)
Work EnvironmentSchools, educational settingsClinics, hospitals, outpatient settings
Employer & IndustrySchool districts, educational agenciesHealthcare facilities, outpatient clinics
FocusSupporting students' educational participationTreating children with various health conditions

School Based Physical Therapy primarily focuses on helping students succeed academically by addressing physical needs within school settings. Pediatric Physical Therapists work across various healthcare environments to treat children with diverse conditions. While both roles require a PT license, their work environments and primary goals differ, with School Based Physical Therapy centered on educational support and Pediatric Physical Therapy on clinical treatment.

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for School Based Physical Therapy jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most School Based Physical Therapy job openings:

?? Physical Therapist (PT) - School-Based

Irvine, CA

Amergis Healthcare Staffing
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 10K+ employees

$55/hr

Full-time, Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

?? Physical Therapist (PT) - School-Based

?? Location: Irvine, CA
?? Pay Rate: $55/hour
?? Start Date: August 18, 2026
? Contract Length: 32 Weeks
?? Schedule: 35 Hours per Week
? Position Type: Full-Time School-Based Contract

About the Position

We are seeking a licensed Physical Therapist (PT) to join a school-based team in Irvine, CA. In this role, you will evaluate students, develop individualized treatment plans, and provide therapy services that support students' physical development and educational success.

This is an excellent opportunity to work within a large and diverse educational environment, helping students achieve greater independence and participation in their school day.

Key Responsibilities

?? Conduct student evaluations and assessments to determine therapy needs.

?? Develop and implement individualized treatment plans based on student goals.

?? Provide direct physical therapy services in accordance with established plans of care.

?? Collaborate with teachers, special education staff, families, and multidisciplinary teams.

?? Participate in IEP meetings and provide recommendations to support student outcomes.

?? Maintain accurate documentation, progress reports, and compliance records.

?? Ensure all services align with professional standards and applicable regulations.

QualificationsRequired

?? Current Physical Therapist (PT) license in the state of practice

?? Graduate of an accredited Physical Therapy program

?? Ability to meet all federal, state, and local requirements

?? Strong communication and teamwork skills

?? Must be at least 18 years of age

Preferred

? One (1) year of professional Physical Therapy experience

? Previous school-based or pediatric experience

? Current CPR certification (if applicable)

? Current health certificate and TB clearance as required

Position Highlights

?? Full-time school-based opportunity

?? Serve students across a large, supportive educational community

???? Make a meaningful impact on students' mobility, independence, and success

?? Consistent 35-hour work week

?? Collaborative multidisciplinary team environment

?? Competitive pay at $55/hour

?? 32-week contract assignment

?? No client interview required for submission

If you're a dedicated Physical Therapist looking to make a positive difference in the lives of students, we'd love to connect with you. Apply today!

Minimum Requirements: 

  • Current licensure as a Physical Therapist in the state of practice 
  • Graduate of an accredited school of Physical Therapy 
  • One (1) year of prior professional Physical Therapy experience preferred 
  • Complies with all relevant professional standards of practice 
  • Current CPR if applicable
  • TB questionnaire, PPD or chest x-ray if applicable 
  • Current Health certificate (per contract or state regulation) 
  • Must meet all federal, state and local requirements 
  • Must be at least 18 years of age
Benefits
At Amergis, we firmly believe that our employees are the heartbeat of our organization and we are happy to offer the following benefits:
  • Competitive pay & weekly paychecks
  • Health, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • 401(k) savings plan
  • Awards and recognition programs 
*Benefit eligibility is dependent on employment status. 

About Amergis
Amergis, formerly known as Maxim Healthcare Staffing, has served our clients and communities by connecting people to the work that matters since 1988. We provide meaningful opportunities to our extensive network of healthcare and school-based professionals, ready to work in any hospital, government facility, or school. Through partnership and innovation, Amergis creates unmatched staffing experiences to deliver the best workforce solutions.  

Amergis is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.