Physical Therapist Jobs 

Empowering Recovery Through Care

Physical therapists play a vital role in helping patients recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, and improve their overall mobility and quality of life. The field of physical therapy offers a diverse range of job opportunities, each with specific responsibilities, educational requirements, and certifications. Healthcare facilities such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, and home health agencies are consistently in need of skilled physical therapists to meet the growing demand for rehabilitation services.

Physical therapists utilize their expertise in anatomy, physiology, and therapeutic techniques to design individualized treatment plans that address patients’ unique needs. Their work is essential in facilitating recovery from surgery, injury, or illness, enabling patients to regain function and independence. The increasing focus on patient-centered care in the healthcare system has further elevated the demand for qualified physical therapists across various settings.

From new graduates to experienced clinicians and leadership roles, physical therapy offers a rewarding career for those passionate about improving patient outcomes.

Entry-level positions

  • Responsible for providing initial assessments, developing treatment plans, and delivering therapeutic services to patients recovering from injury or surgery.

    • Experience: 0-1 years (new graduates encouraged).

    • Education/Certification: Bachelor's, Master's, or Doctorate in Physical Therapy; state licensure required.

    • Salary Range: $65,000 - $85,000 annually

    • Work Environment: Hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, home health agencies.

    • Works under the supervision of a licensed PT to implement treatment plans and assist patients with exercises and therapy techniques.

    • Experience: Entry-level; minimal prior experience required.

    • Education/Certification: Associate degree in Physical Therapy Assisting; state licensure required.

    • Salary Range: $40,000 - $55,000 annually .

    • Work Environment: Outpatient clinics, hospitals, skilled nursing facilities.

Mid-level positions

  • Provides direct patient care, collaborates with healthcare teams, and supervises entry-level staff while managing a caseload of patients.

    • Experience: 2-5 years.

    • Education/Certification: Doctorate in Physical Therapy; current state licensure.

    • Salary Range: $75,000 - $95,000 annually .

    • Work Environment
      clinics, rehabilitation facilities.

  • Oversees the physical therapy department, manages staff, and ensures compliance with healthcare regulations and treatment protocols.

    • Experience: 5-7 years.

    • Education/Certification: Doctorate in Physical Therapy; state licensure; management experience preferred.

    • Salary Range: $85,000 - $110,000 annually.

    • Work Environment: Rehabilitation outpatient centers, private practices.

Senior-level positions

  • Leads and manages all rehabilitation services, develops programs, and oversees staff development and compliance with healthcare standards.

    • Experience: 7+ years.

    • Education/Certification: Doctorate in Physical Therapy; administrative training or certification; state licensure.

    • Salary Range: $100,000 - $130,000 annually .

    • Work Environment: Hospital systems, rehabilitation medical centers.

  • Provides advanced clinical expertise in a specialty area of physical therapy, mentoring other clinicians and leading research initiatives.

    • Experience: 5+ years in a specialty area.

    • Education/Certification: Doctorate in Physical Therapy; specialty certification (e.g., orthopedics, geriatrics) preferred.

    • Salary Range: $90,000 - $120,000 annually .

    • Work Environment: Hospitals, academic institutions, specialized

Job description example

Job Responsibilities

  • Conduct comprehensive assessments of patients' physical abilities and limitations.

  • Develop and implement individualized treatment plans based on patient needs.

  • Utilize various therapeutic techniques and modalities to promote healing and rehabilitation.

  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to optimize patient care and outcomes.

  • Educate patients and their families on treatment plans, home exercises, and wellness strategies.

  • Document patient progress and modify care plans as necessary.

Qualifications

  • Current licensure as a Physical Therapist in [State].

  • Bachelor’s degree in Physical Therapy; Master’s or Doctorate preferred.

  • Experience in a clinical setting is a plus, but new graduates are encouraged to apply.

  • Strong communication and organizational skills are essential.

Life as a Physical Therapist in your region

At mlee, we’re here to help you find your ideal Physical Therapist role and explore what life is like in each state, so you can discover the best fit for your career and lifestyle.