How to write a Physical Therapist Assistant job description

Your job description is the first touchpoint between your company and your new hire. With millions of people searching for jobs on Indeed each month, a great job description can help you attract the most qualified candidates to your open position. To get you started, here are some tips for creating an effective job description.

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A great job title typically includes a general term, level of experience and any special requirements. The general term will optimize your job title to show up in a general search for jobs of the same nature. The level of experience will help you attract the most qualified applicants by outlining the amount of responsibility and prior knowledge required. And if your position is specialized, consider including the specialization in the job title as well. But avoid using internal titles, abbreviations or acronyms to make sure people understand what your job posting is before clicking.

Home Health Physical Therapy Assistant
PRN Physical Therapist Assistant
Physical Therapist Assistant (Part-Time)

A great job description starts with a compelling summary of the position and its role within your company. Your summary should provide an overview of your company and expectations for the position. Outline the types of activities and responsibilities required for the job so job seekers can determine if they are qualified, or if the job is a good fit.

Under the direction of a physical therapist, the assistant physical therapist will aid in a variety of patient care, including performing test, evaluations and help in complex procedures. They will work with other members of the rehabilitation team to implement the agreed-upon course of care for each patient. They are also responsible for adhering to the department's treatment schedule, clinical procedures and billing documentation for each of their patients. The physical therapist assistant, under the guidance of the physical therapist, will work with and instruct family members and caregivers of the patient on their treatment plan and how to implement that program at home.

The responsibilities and duties section is the most important part of the job description. Here you should outline the functions this position will perform on a regular basis, how the job functions within the organization and who the job reports to.

Works with the physical therapist to implement patient's treatment program.
Coordinates with other members of the rehabilitation team to implement activities and programs based on the patient's individual treatment needs.
Handle scheduling of patients treatment, clinical visits and billing, and other documentation per the department's requirements.
Works with patients families and caregivers to implement treatment plans and appropriate activities at home.
Maintains updated documentation on all the patients treated.

Next, outline the required and preferred skills for your position. This may include education, previous job experience, certifications and technical skills. You may also include soft skills and personality traits that you envision for a successful hire. While it may be tempting to include a long list of skills and requirements, including too many could dissuade qualified candidates from applying. Keep your list of qualifications concise, but provide enough detail with relevant keywords and terms.

High levels of compassion and empathy
Ability to stand for long periods of time, bend, kneel and lift heavy objects
Excellent communication skills both written and verbal
Physical therapy assistant license
Current CPR and first-aid certification

Job Description Examples

Need help writing a job description for a specific role? Use these job description examples to create your next great job posting. Or if you’re ready to hire, post your job on Indeed.

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How to write a Physical Therapist Assistant job description

Physical Therapist Assistant job title

Examples of Physical Therapist Assistant job titles

Physical Therapist Assistant job summary

Example of a Physical Therapist Assistant job summary

Physical Therapist Assistant responsibilities and duties

Examples of Physical Therapist Assistant responsibilities

Physical Therapist Assistant qualifications and skills

Examples of Physical Therapist Assistant skills