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If you’ve Googled “Physical Therapy Assistant job description,” you’ve probably seen the same thing over and over:
Bullet points. Dry wording. Zero personality.
But here’s the truth—if your goal is to attract a great Physical Therapy Assistant, a generic post won’t cut it.
Most job descriptions fail because they just describe the job… they don’t sell the opportunity.
They forget that top candidates aren’t just looking for a paycheck—they’re looking for a purpose, a team they believe in, and a role where they can actually make an impact.
So if your job post reads like a checklist, it’s time for a reset.
This guide will show you how to write a job description that’s clear, human, and actually helps you attract the right people.
Before we get into examples, if you haven’t already, check out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/. It walks through everything you need to know—from structure to tone to candidate psychology.
Now, let’s break down what this role really is—and how to communicate it well.
Hiring doesn’t have to be hard.
If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
What A Physical Therapy Assistant Actually Does
A Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) works directly with patients to help them recover mobility, manage pain, and regain strength after injury or illness. But this role isn’t just about following a treatment plan—it’s about encouragement, consistency, and care.
A great PTA supports the physical therapist, keeps patients motivated, and makes sure each session is both effective and safe. They’re often the person patients see most regularly during their recovery journey—so being dependable, communicative, and empathetic matters just as much as knowing the exercises.
In other words, you’re not just hiring a set of hands—you’re hiring a partner in healing. Someone who can build trust with patients, communicate with the care team, and help people make progress that actually improves their lives.
Two Great Physical Therapy Assistant Job Description Templates
We’ll provide two tailored job description options:
1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced Line Cook with prior experience.
2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.”
✅ Template 1 – Job Description For Experienced Physical Therapy Assistant
Job Title: Physical Therapy Assistant — Elevate Motion & Rehab (Full-Time | Nashville, TN | $24–$30/hr)
Schedule: Mon–Fri | 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Location: On-site, 2414 Belmont Blvd, Nashville, TN 37212
Employment Type: Full-Time
🎥 Meet Your Future Team
A 60-second welcome from our Clinic Director, Dr. Karen Miles — watch here → [Loom Video Link]
👋 Who We Are
Founded in 2014, Elevate Motion & Rehab is a 12-person outpatient clinic specializing in sports injury recovery and post-operative rehab. We treat ≈150 patient visits per week, partner with three local high-school athletics programs, and pride ourselves on evidence-based protocols and a “patients-first, egos-last” culture.
🎯 Why We’re Hiring
Demand has outpaced capacity. We need a licensed PTA who can jump in, run efficient sessions, and keep patient morale high.
🛠️ What You’ll Be Doing
- Execute treatment plans created by our PTs (90% orthopedic / 10% neuro)
- Guide patients through therapeutic exercises and manual techniques
- Record progress in WebPT after every session
- Coach patients on home-exercise programs
- Flag concerns to the PT team and adjust plans together
✅ What We’re Looking For
- Active Tennessee PTA license
- 1+ year outpatient or sports-rehab experience
- Confident with EMR (WebPT or similar)
- CPR/BLS certified (or willing to obtain pre-start)
- Empathy, enthusiasm, and crisp communication
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- 100 % employer-paid health, dental & vision (starts Day 1)
- 15 days PTO + 8 paid holidays + birthday off
- $1,000 annual CEU stipend + paid CEU days
- 401(k) with 4 % match after 6 months
- Free on-site gym & wellness stipend
🌟 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
At Elevate, you’ll treat motivated patients, collaborate with PTs who value your input, and see real progress every week. You’ll never be a “tech with a title”—you’re a core clinician whose ideas shape care plans and outcomes.
📥 How to Apply
We hire through WorkScreen.io so every candidate gets an equal, skills-based shot. Click [Apply via WorkScreen] to take a 10-minute clinical scenario quiz and upload your résumé. We respond to every applicant within 7 days.
✅ Template 2 – Job Description For Entry-Level / Willing-to-Train Physical Therapy Assistant
Job Title: Physical Therapy Assistant Trainee — Elevate Motion & Rehab (Full-Time | Nashville, TN | $18–$22/hr DOE)
Schedule: Mon–Fri | 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Location: On-site, 2414 Belmont Blvd, Nashville, TN 37212
Employment Type: Full-Time
🎥 Hear From Our Lead PT
“Why we invest in new talent” — 1-minute video from Lead PT, Alex Gomez, DPT → [YouTube Link]
👋 Who We Are
Elevate Motion & Rehab began in a single-room studio in 2014 and has grown into Nashville’s go-to clinic for active adults and weekend warriors. Our team handles everything from ACL rehab to post-stroke mobility. Community outreach is big for us—we host monthly free movement clinics in local parks.
🌱 Why We’re Hiring
Several team members have been promoted internally, opening space for someone eager to learn and grow into a licensed PTA role.
🛠️ What You’ll Be Doing
- Set up treatment areas and demonstrate basic exercises
- Assist patients during sessions, ensuring safety & encouragement
- Update exercise logs and prep treatment notes for PT review
- Maintain equipment hygiene and manage linen rotation
- Shadow PTs & licensed PTAs; take on progressive duties as you learn
✅ What We’re Looking For
- High-school diploma (associate’s in exercise science a plus)
- Genuine interest in rehab, fitness, or athletic training
- Friendly bedside manner and patience with diverse populations
- Able to lift 40 lbs and be on your feet most of the day
- Eager to pursue PTA licensure (we’ll help)
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Employer-paid health, dental & vision after 60 days
- 12 days PTO + 6 paid holidays + volunteer day
- $500 annual education stipend + study-time allowance for PTA school
- Monthly Rideshare or parking stipend
- Team socials, wellness challenges, and free clinic merch
🌟 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
You’ll get hands-on experience in a supportive environment that treats trainees like future clinicians—not errand runners. We’ll mentor you through school prerequisites, cover part of your tuition, and promote you when you earn your license.
📥 How to Apply
Click [Apply via WorkScreen] to complete a brief situational quiz and upload a one-page résumé. Every applicant hears back—normally within 5 business days.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down.
WorkScreen helps you identify the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Why These Physical Therapy Assistant Job Descriptions Actually Work
Most job posts read like a formality. These don’t. Here’s why both examples (experienced and entry-level) stand out—and how they help attract the right candidates.
✅ 1. Clear, Specific Titles
Instead of saying “PTA needed,” the titles are intentional:
“Physical Therapy Assistant at Elevate Motion & Rehab (Full-Time | Nashville, TN | $24–$30/hr)”
It tells the candidate:
- What the role is
- Who it’s with
- Where it’s based
- What they’ll earn
This saves time and filters in the right people.
✅ 2. Personal Touch With Video
Including a Loom or YouTube video gives the job post a human face. It builds trust, shows your culture instantly, and increases applicant engagement—especially among younger or mission-driven candidates.
✅ 3. Real, Relatable Company Descriptions
Instead of a boilerplate “we’re a physical therapy clinic,” the posts tell a story:
- How long the clinic has been around
- What kinds of patients they serve
- What kind of team culture exists
This helps candidates self-select—so the ones who apply are more likely to resonate with your mission.
✅ 4. Responsibilities That Show Impact
Instead of listing generic tasks (“assist physical therapist”), these posts highlight how the PTA helps patients make progress:
“You’ll guide patients through exercises, track their progress, and help them regain function they thought they’d lost.”
It creates a sense of purpose and pride—something top-tier candidates look for.
✅ 5. Transparent Salary & Benefits
The salary range is listed right in the job title, with a full perks section below. This builds trust and filters out mismatched expectations early.
✅ 6. Culture and Growth Are Front and Center
Instead of claiming “we value growth,” the posts show it:
- For experienced hires: CEU stipends and team collaboration
- For trainees: mentorship, education stipends, and promotion paths
That turns a job into a career—exactly what ambitious candidates are looking for.
✅ 7. Respectful, Modern Hiring Process
Using WorkScreen.io and clearly explaining the process removes the ambiguity. No “only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.” Instead, applicants know:
- What the process looks like
- When they’ll hear back
- That they’re being evaluated on skills—not just a résumé
That shows respect, and respect attracts the right people.
Bad Physical Therapy Assistant Job Description Example (And Why it Fails)
📌 Job Title: Physical Therapy Assistant
🏢 Company: HealthFirst Rehab Services
📍 Location: Nashville, TN
🕒 Job Type: Full-Time
Job Summary
We are seeking a licensed Physical Therapy Assistant to join our rehab center. The PTA will assist the physical therapist in providing care and documenting patient progress.
Responsibilities
- Carry out assigned patient exercises
- Ensure proper use of equipment
- Maintain cleanliness of treatment areas
- Document patient progress in charts
Qualifications
- Associate’s degree in Physical Therapy
- Current PTA license
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Ability to follow directions
How to Apply
Submit your CV and cover letter to hr@healthfirstcareers.com by July 20, 2025. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
🚫 Why This Job Post Falls Short
1. Generic Job Title
“Physical Therapy Assistant” tells you nothing about who the role is for, what kind of clinic it’s in, or why it matters. There’s no context or specificity to attract the right applicant.
2. Cold, Minimal Introduction
There’s no story, mission, or reason why someone should care.
It doesn’t say what HealthFirst does, what kinds of patients they serve, or what makes the team different. It feels like a formality—not a chance to join a real team.
3. No Mention of Compensation or Benefits
No salary range, no PTO info, no benefits. In 2025, this lack of transparency makes your post feel outdated—and immediately loses trust with quality candidates.
4. Culture? What Culture?
There’s nothing about values, work environment, or how team members are treated. Candidates can’t picture what it’s like to work there—and that’s a huge red flag.
5. Responsibilities Are Vague and Transactional
“Carry out assigned patient exercises.”
That’s not motivating. There’s no sense of impact or purpose—just a checklist of tasks that could apply to any clinic, anywhere.
6. Dismissive Hiring Process
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.”
This is cold, impersonal, and outdated. It suggests the company doesn’t value applicants’ time—and that’s a turn-off for high-quality candidates.
7. Zero Personality in the CTA
The call to action is dry and formal. There’s no motivation, no encouragement, no sign that the company cares who applies.
This kind of post doesn’t repel candidates outright—but it definitely doesn’t inspire them either. And in a competitive market, uninspired = ignored.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Job Post Stand Out
You’ve already seen how a well-written job post can attract better candidates—but if you want yours to truly rise above the noise, these small details can make a big difference:
✅ 1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice
Build trust with applicants by showing you take their safety seriously—especially in an age of online job scams.
🔒 Example:
“We take your privacy seriously. We will never ask for payment, personal banking info, or sensitive identification during any part of the hiring process.”
It’s a small sentence that adds big reassurance.
✅ 2. Mention Leave Days or Flexibility
Candidates value work-life balance—especially in physically and emotionally demanding fields like rehab.
📅 Example:
“Enjoy 15 paid days off annually—including a flexible ‘personal day’ policy so you can take time when you need it.”
Even better: Include birthdays off, mental health days, or volunteer hours if your company offers them.
✅ 3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
If you promote from within, offer CEUs, or help entry-level staff become licensed PTAs—say so!
📈 Example:
“We invest in our team. From day one, you’ll have access to training, mentorship, and a clear path to growth—whether that means becoming a lead PTA or entering PTA school with our support.”
This is especially powerful for entry-level roles or high-potential candidates who want more than “just a job.”
✅ 4. Include a Video from a Real Team Member
You don’t need a fancy camera. Just record a short Loom or Zoom video where the clinic director or a current PTA shares:
- What it’s like to work there
- What kind of person thrives in the role
- Why the company is hiring now
👀 Why it works:
It builds trust, breaks the “faceless brand” feeling, and creates an emotional connection. Even a 45-second clip can boost engagement dramatically.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
✅ 5. Use Candidate-Friendly Language
Write how you speak. Ditch the legal tone. Instead of:
“The incumbent shall be responsible for…”
Try:
“You’ll be the go-to person who…”
Friendly tone = friendlier applicants.
Should You Use AI to Write a Job Post?
Lately, every hiring tool seems to be adding “AI-powered job post generators.” Just type in a job title and boom—out comes a description.
But here’s the problem: AI alone can’t write a job post that attracts the right people.
❌ Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone
When you use AI to instantly generate a job description without giving it any real context, here’s what happens:
- You get generic content that sounds like every other job post online
- It lacks your company’s voice, values, and mission
- It attracts the wrong kind of candidates—people who mass-apply, not those who align with your culture
- Worst of all: it makes your company feel robotic and impersonal
Think of AI as a helpful writing assistant—not a hiring strategist. If you feed it junk, it gives you junk.
✅ The Smarter Way to Use AI (With Human Input)
Use AI to polish, not create from scratch. Here’s how to do it right:
Step 1: Gather Your Raw Notes
Before prompting AI, write down:
- What your company does
- What makes this specific role important
- What kind of person thrives in it
- Your culture and team values
- Salary range and benefits
- Any unique perks or processes (e.g., using WorkScreen, offering paid training, etc.)
Step 2: Prompt AI with Purpose
Here’s an example prompt to feed into ChatGPT or any AI assistant:
“Help me write a conversational job post for [Insert Role] at [Company Name].
We help [what your company does], and we’re hiring because [reason].
The role involves [key responsibilities], and we’re looking for someone who is [ideal traits].
Our culture is [describe culture], and we offer [list benefits].
Here are a few notes I’ve written to get you started:
[Paste your bullet points or outline here]
Please format it clearly and write in a human, friendly tone.”
You can also paste in a job post you like (like the Elevate Motion & Rehab examples above) and say:
“Write something similar to this, but for a [different role].”
Let AI help you with structure and phrasing—but don’t let it replace your voice. A great post reflects your real company, your real people, and your real expectations.
Smart Hiring Starts Here
WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Job Description?
We get it—sometimes you’re in a rush.
Maybe you’ve read this guide, you understand what makes a great job post, but you still need something you can copy, paste, and customize in under 10 minutes.
That’s what this section is for.
✏️ Important Reminder:
Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
This is a foundation, not a final draft.
Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual kitchen.
In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.
Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.
- Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
- Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.
Conversational Job Description Template (Culture-First Style)
Job Title: Physical Therapy Assistant at [Company Name]
Location: [City, State] | [Job Type] | $[XX]–$[XX]/hr
🎥 Optional: Add a 60-second video from your Clinic Director or Lead PT welcoming applicants and sharing what makes this team special.
Who We Are
At [Company Name], we help people move better, live stronger, and heal with dignity. We support patients recovering from surgery, injury, or chronic pain—with empathy, teamwork, and evidence-based care. We’re expanding our team and looking for a licensed PTA who wants to grow with us.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Support the Physical Therapist in delivering patient care plans
- Guide patients through therapeutic exercises and manual techniques
- Record patient progress in [EMR system]
- Coach patients on home-exercise routines
- Monitor safety and engagement throughout sessions
What We’re Looking For
- Current PTA license in [State]
- [X]+ years of experience preferred, but not required
- Communicative, compassionate, and professional
- Team-oriented and adaptable
- Comfortable with diverse patient populations
Perks & Benefits
- Health, dental, and vision coverage
- PTO + paid holidays
- Continuing education support
- Opportunities for promotion
- Supportive, inclusive team culture
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
At [Company Name], you’re more than just an assistant—you’re a vital part of the healing journey. We recognize your role, support your growth, and make sure you’re surrounded by a team that respects and values your work.
How to Apply
We use WorkScreen.io to evaluate applicants based on ability, not just résumés. Click below to take a quick, role-specific evaluation and upload your résumé.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
📑 Option 2: Structured Format – Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements
Job Title: Physical Therapy Assistant
Location: [City, State]
Job Type: [Full-Time / Part-Time]
Salary Range: $[XX]–$[XX]/hr
🎥 Optional: Include a short video from your hiring manager or PT team lead sharing what the role is like and what kind of person thrives in the clinic.
Who We Are
[Company Name] is a [describe your practice briefly—e.g., outpatient physical therapy clinic focused on orthopedic and sports rehab]. We’re a collaborative, patient-first team that values consistency, growth, and great outcomes. Our goal is to create a welcoming environment for patients and staff alike.
Job Responsibilities
- Carry out physical therapy treatment plans under supervision
- Guide patients through exercises and stretches
- Document patient performance and progress in [EMR software]
- Ensure proper use of equipment and maintain treatment spaces
- Communicate with therapists to adjust care as needed
Required Qualifications
- Associate’s degree in Physical Therapy Assisting
- Valid PTA license in [State]
- Excellent interpersonal and time-management skills
- CPR/BLS certification (or willingness to obtain)
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive pay
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off + holidays
- CEU support and career development
- Positive, team-focused work culture
How to Apply
We use WorkScreen.io to evaluate all applicants fairly and efficiently. To apply, follow the link below and complete a short skills-based evaluation. We review every application and respond promptly.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Step
Writing a strong job post is just the first step.
Once applicants start coming in, you need a way to quickly spot the best ones—without spending hours reading resumes or chasing down interviews.
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
WorkScreen Helps You:
✅ Instantly identify top candidates.
Our platform automatically scores and ranks applicants based on real-world skills, not just what’s written on their résumé.
✅ Send one-click skill tests in minutes.
Easily evaluate candidates through short, job-relevant scenarios that show how they think, communicate, and perform.
✅ Filter out low-effort applicants.
Avoid “one-click applies,” copy-pasted cover letters, and AI-generated fluff. Focus your time only on serious, qualified candidates who match your role and values.
✅ Streamline your entire hiring process.
From job post to offer letter, WorkScreen helps you move faster—with less bias, more data, and better results.
Sign up for WorkScreen.io today,
👋 Tired of making hiring decisions based on gut feel?
🚀 Want to hire based on what people can actually do?
publish your job post, and start evaluating candidates with clarity and confidence.
Physical Therapy Assistant Job Description - Frequently Asked Questions
When hiring a PTA, look beyond just licensing and education. Here are the key skills and traits that set great assistants apart:
- Clear Communication: They need to explain exercises, provide feedback, and document progress accurately.
- Empathy & Patience: Many patients are recovering from pain or trauma—emotional intelligence is critical.
- Attention to Detail: Small changes in form or movement matter. Great PTAs notice and adjust quickly.
- Team Collaboration: They must work seamlessly with physical therapists, administrative staff, and patients.
- Physical Stamina: The job is active—standing, lifting, and guiding movement all day.
- Tech Literacy: Familiarity with EMR systems (like WebPT) and basic scheduling tools is a major plus.
As of 2024, the average salary for a licensed Physical Therapy Assistant in the U.S. is around $60,000/year (or about $28–$30/hour), depending on:
- Location: Urban areas and states like California, Texas, and New York tend to offer higher rates.
- Experience: Entry-level PTAs may start around $22–$24/hour, while experienced ones can earn $30–$35/hour or more.
- Work Setting: Outpatient clinics typically pay less than hospitals or home health environments.
Always research local benchmarks and include a salary range in your post to attract serious applicants.
Physical Therapists (PTs) create treatment plans, conduct full evaluations, and have a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree.
PTAs are licensed to implement those treatment plans, guide patients through sessions, and report on progress—but they don’t diagnose or design new plans.
When you hire a PTA, you’re bringing in a key support role that allows your PTs to focus on evaluations, plan design, and more complex cases.
The typical hiring timeline ranges from 2–4 weeks, depending on:
- How quickly you review applications
- Whether you require background checks or references
- Whether you’re offering skill-based evaluations before interviews
Want to speed it up without sacrificing quality? Use a platform like WorkScreen to pre-rank candidates based on performance and readiness.
