Building a long-term career in physical therapy: Top job opportunities for you

Searching for physical therapist job openings? Find out about the latest job opportunities in various settings, including outpatient clinics, schools, homecare, and hospitals. This guide will cover what you need to know about benefits, flexible schedules, and career growth. Let’s get started on your path to a rewarding career!

Key takeaways

• Physical therapy offers diverse job opportunities across various settings, including outpatient clinics, hospitals, and home health care, with both full-time and part-time roles available.
• Competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and professional development opportunities enhance job satisfaction and career advancement for physical therapists.
• The perfect blend of flexibility, job satisfaction, and competitive pay can be found at Coral Care - a new and impactful way to bring care to children in need.
• To practice as a physical therapist, a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and state licensure are required, alongside ongoing education to stay current in the field.

Explore current physical therapy job openings

Physical therapy provides numerous job opportunities across various specializations and locations, including outpatient clinics, hospitals, and home health care. The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)’s Career Center is an excellent resource for discovering these opportunities. From bustling hospitals to quiet outpatient PT clinics, there’s an ideal setting for every physical therapist.

Diverse settings for physical therapists

Physical therapists work in diverse environments, each with unique experiences and challenges. Outpatient clinics, for instance, focus on specialized care for patients in need of rehabilitation.

Some therapists also provide in-home outpatient services, offering personalized and convenient care at patients’ residences. Coral Care specializes in pediatric in-home care, helping families seek immediate care for their children with specialized support for each child’s needs. Physical therapists at Coral Care help children develop gross motor skills to improve balance, coordination, motion, and strength. 

Hospitals and educational institutions present rewarding opportunities. In hospitals, therapists often assist patients recovering from surgeries or managing chronic conditions. Educational institutions offer platforms for teaching and research, advancing the field. Regardless of the work you choose, every type of environment offers its own rewards and challenges, making physical therapy a versatile and fulfilling career.

Full-time vs. part-time positions

Job openings in physical therapy include both full-time and part-time roles, accommodating various scheduling needs. This flexibility enables therapists to select positions that fit their lifestyle and commitments. Whether seeking the stability of full-time work or the flexibility of part-time roles, numerous opportunities exist to find a suitable schedule. Coral Care offers great flexibility for part time work, while many outpatient clinics offer numerous full-time roles. 

Flexible work schedules

Physical therapy positions often allow for customized work schedules, enhancing work-life balance. This flexibility lets therapists align professional commitments with personal priorities. For instance, some therapists work only while their children are in school, ensuring family remains a priority. 

The freedom to determine work schedules is a significant perk, aiding in maintaining a healthy work-life balance and boosting job satisfaction (Indeed.com). Choosing when and where to work can substantially impact a therapist’s well-being and career longevity. It’s why Coral Care offers physical therapists complete autonomy to choose a schedule that works for their life and career goals. 

Benefits and perks of physical therapy careers

Physical therapy careers offer numerous benefits and perks, including competitive pay, comprehensive benefits packages, professional development opportunities, and flexible work schedules. 

Competitive pay and compensation packages

Competitive pay attracts and retains skilled physical therapists. In the U.S., median salaries are about $47.94 hourly (Bureau of Labor Statistics), reflecting the high demand for their expertise. It's worth noting that some companies (including Coral Care, which pays PTs $75 a session) will pay much higher hourly rates, especially if travel is involved. Many employers also offer performance-based bonuses to incentivize high-quality care and positive patient outcomes. These compensation packages ensure financial stability and reward dedication and hard work, allowing therapists to focus on providing the best possible care to their patients.

Professional development opportunities

Ongoing education and certifications are crucial to staying updated in the evolving field of physical therapy. Therapists can achieve board certification in ten specialty areas, enhancing their qualifications and expertise. Resources like the MedBridge app and CEU Reimbursement support ongoing education, ensuring clinical staff stay current with the latest advancements (American Physical Therapy Association).

Licensed therapists can pursue residency or fellowship programs to gain advanced knowledge and expertise in specific practice areas. These programs offer in-depth training and mentorship, preparing therapists for leadership roles and specialized positions. Numerous avenues for professional development allow physical therapists to continuously grow and advance in their careers.

Health and wellness benefits

Physical therapists usually receive comprehensive health and wellness benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, ensuring access to high-quality care for themselves and their families. Retirement benefits such as a 401(k) plan are also commonly offered, providing financial security for the future (Zippa Career Specialists).

Many employers show commitment to employees’ well-being through wellness programs and initiatives. Some offer paid student loan repayment for qualifying clinical roles, with contributions up to $5,000 per year, supporting therapists’ health and overall financial and personal well-being.

Work-life balance

A healthy work-life balance is crucial for physical therapists’ personal and professional well-being. Flexible schedules help accommodate personal needs while meeting professional commitments. Workplaces like Athletico and Coral Care emphasize collaboration and common goals, fostering supportive environments.

Overall, a balanced work-life environment is vital for long-term job satisfaction and career longevity.

Career growth and development

Career growth and development are integral to a physical therapist’s professional journey. Some companies foster growth and prepare future leaders through comprehensive internal advancement programs. 

In addition to employer sponsored opportunities, networking within the field enhances career opportunities through valuable professional relationships. Building relationships in the sector can lead to mentorship, job opportunities, and collaborations that enhance one’s career. 

Moreover, professional development programs are also crucial for advancing next generation careers. Professional development and networking are essential for physical therapists aiming to grow and advance in their careers.

Requirements for physical therapy jobs

To become a physical therapist in the U.S., candidates must complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree and pass a state licensure exam (American Physical Therapy Association). Education forms a crucial foundation for a successful career, ensuring therapists are well-prepared for the profession’s demands.

Educational background and licensure

Most DPT programs require a bachelor’s degree before admission, though some offer a combined 3+3 curricular format. Typically, a DPT program lasts around three years, integrating classroom learning with clinical education, preparing students for the profession’s rigorous demands (Creighton University).

All states require physical therapists to hold a valid license to practice, ensuring they meet educational and clinical experience requirements, including at least 2,000 hours of clinical experience for board certification. These stringent standards help maintain high-quality care in the field (American Physical Therapy Association).

Experience and skills

Clinical experience is crucial for aspiring physical therapists, preparing them for real-world patient interactions. PT Technician positions offer opportunities to support therapists and patients while gaining in-clinic experience. Organizations like Luna Physical Therapy require a minimum of three years of clinical experience to ensure therapists are well-prepared to see patients.

Student clinical education experiences enhance the knowledge and skills needed for entry-level competencies. These hands-on experiences are invaluable, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings and develop the skills necessary for career success.

Continuing education and certifications

Ongoing education is essential to stay current with advancements in physical therapy and enhance career prospects. Programs like the Clinical Affiliation Program (CAP) provide students with hands-on experience and mentorship from clinical instructors, helping them stay updated and improve their skills. Continuing education benefits therapists and ensures they provide the highest quality care to their patients.

How to apply for physical therapy positions

Applying for physical therapy positions involves several steps, from preparing application materials to navigating the interview process and following up. Understanding these steps helps you stand out as a strong candidate and increases your chances of securing a job.

Preparing your application materials

Tailor your resume and cover letter to the specific job you’re applying for. Highlight relevant experience, skills, and accomplishments, and use a variety of action verbs and metrics to highlight your impact.

Navigating the interview process

Successfully navigating the interview process requires careful preparation and a positive attitude. Research the company, dress appropriately, and practice common interview questions relevant to physical therapy positions. Being well-prepared will help you feel more confident and leave a lasting positive impression.

During the interview, be confident and remain positive. Asking thoughtful questions demonstrates your enthusiasm and commitment to the role. The interview is an opportunity to showcase your skills and fit for the position.

Following up after the interview

Sending a follow-up message after an interview demonstrates your interest in the position. Express gratitude for the opportunity, and inquire about the next steps in the hiring process and the expected timeline for feedback.

Stay informed about new opportunities

Joining a talent community is a strategic way to stay informed about new job openings. Being part of the community ensures prompt notifications about the latest vacancies, enhancing your chances of discovering new opportunities.

Networking and professional connections

Networking is crucial for success and growth within the physical therapy community. Building professional relationships can lead to mentorship, job opportunities, and collaborations that enhance one’s career. The talent community provides opportunities to build valuable professional connections.

These connections help find job opportunities and contribute to professional and personal growth. Engaging with peers and mentors provides invaluable support and guidance throughout your career.

Work as a physical therapist with Coral Care

Coral Care is ideal for therapists focusing on patient care without the administrative burdens. By handling administrative tasks, Coral Care allows therapists to concentrate on hands-on care, ensuring high-quality interactions and better patient outcomes. Therapists can start working with self-pay patients while being credentialed for insurance, ensuring a smooth start to their practice.

Coral Care offers a user-friendly, HIPAA-compliant system for documentation, simplifying the management of evaluation reports and session notes. Therapists also enjoy the flexibility of conducting sessions in clients’ homes, bringing necessary materials and utilizing the client’s environment during treatments.

With the ability to accept or decline appointment requests, therapists can tailor their schedules to best fit their personal and professional needs. Join Coral Care today and experience a supportive, flexible, and rewarding work environment!

Ready to apply to physical therapy jobs?

A career in physical therapy offers a multitude of opportunities for growth, flexibility, and satisfaction. From diverse job settings and competitive compensation packages to extensive professional development opportunities and comprehensive health benefits, physical therapy careers are highly rewarding. The application process, while detailed, is manageable with proper preparation and follow-up. 

Coral Care exemplifies an employer that supports physical therapists in delivering excellent patient care while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Work in MA, RI, NH, or TX? Embark on your physical therapy journey with Coral Care today to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare field!