Physical Therapy Assistant
Job Title: Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) – Outpatient – Direct Hire
Location:
Artesia General Hospital
702 N 13th Street, Artesia, NM 88210
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary: $29.20 – $33.99 per hour (based on experience)
- Sign-on Bonus: $15,000
- Relocation Reimbursement: Up to $8,000 (with receipts)
- Medical, Dental, Vision, and Supplemental Plans
- Benefits begin on the 1st of the month following 30 days of employment
Schedule
- Monday – Friday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM for lunch)
- Weekend rotation: 1 in 5 (inpatient coverage)
- May participate in holiday rotation
Job Summary
Provides physical therapy services under the direction of a licensed Physical Therapist in accordance with physician referrals and established care plans. Delivers patient-centered care across a wide range of conditions including musculoskeletal, neurological, and functional impairments. Responsible for implementing treatment plans, assisting with patient and family education, and collaborating with the interdisciplinary team to ensure comprehensive care.
This role primarily supports hospital-based outpatient therapy, with potential to assist in inpatient rehab units as needed.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver skilled treatment for mobility, strength, balance, ambulation, and functional needs
- Implement individualized treatment plans established by the Physical Therapist
- Monitor patient progress and report outcomes
- Provide patient and caregiver education to promote independence
- Maintain accurate documentation in accordance with APTA guidelines
- Coordinate care with interdisciplinary healthcare teams
- Participate in quality improvement, education, and program development initiatives
Patient Population & Caseload
- 8–10 patients per day
- Patient population: Juvenile (5+) to Geriatrics
- Common diagnoses:
- Joint replacements
- Back, shoulder, and foot pain
- Neurological conditions (TBI, stroke, Parkinson’s)
Required Qualifications
- Graduate of a nationally accredited Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program
- Eligible for licensure with the New Mexico State Physical Therapy Board
- BLS certification required prior to employment
Experience
- 1+ year of outpatient experience preferred
- Open to new graduates and candidates with inpatient experience
- First-time travelers accepted
Skills & Competencies
- Strong understanding of rehabilitation techniques and patient care
- Ability to work independently and manage patient schedules efficiently
- Basic computer skills
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Additional Information
- Work environment includes direct patient care with possible exposure to bodily fluids
- Dress code: Business casual (collared shirt, khaki/black pants) or solid scrubs
- Orientation includes 1–2 shifts with a preceptor, tailored to experience level
- Reports to: Justin Hammer, PT, DPT
- Team includes 2 PTAs and rehab support staff