JOB SUMMARY (overview of job):  Responsible for evaluation, planning, directing and administering physical therapy modalities of treatment as prescribed by a licensed physician, or through direct access if a patient’s insurance does not require a physician referral.  Develops a plan of care and administers treatments and physical agents in an effort to restore function and prevent disability following injury, disease or physical disability.  Assists patients to reach their maximum performance and level of functioning, while learning to live within the limits of their capabilities.  The staff therapist coordinates, delegates and supervises responsibilities assigned to supportive staff (PTA, PT Tech, etc.). The staff therapist participates in operational aspects of the department, maintains performance improvement activities within the department and participates in CQI activities.  Provides input in formulating budget, assists in evaluating department performance versus budget controls and takes appropriate action to remain in budget guidelines.  Ensures that patient charges are accurate and entered on a timely basis. Participates in all infection control, departmental equipment training, organizational safety and fire safety programs.

Aptitudes: Mental acuity/intelligence -ability to recognize changes in client's physical and mental capacity.  Able to interact with patients and families providing excellent care as well as excellent customer service. Knowledge of computer programs and able to learn to use computer for clinical documentation.  Numerical/mathematical skills to be able to measure for needed adjustments, weights. * Mechanical ability to explain and educate clients to equipment, adjust walkers, crutches, wheelchairs. * Organization-ability to allocate appropriate time and resources efficiently to meet client needs. * Communicate-must be able to demonstrate appropriate communication to interdisciplinary team members, clients and physicians daily. * Emotional development to enable appropriate interactions with peers, supervisor, as well as with clients/families who may be stressed or dealing with a major functional loss due to joint or limb trauma/disability. 

KNOWLEDGE/EXPERIENCE:  Experience as a Physical Therapist preferred.

EDUCATION:  Graduate of an approved school of Physical Therapy or graduate of accredited college or university with a certificate in Physical Therapy.

LICENSE/CERTIFICATION/REGISTRY:  Current State Physical Therapy Licensure.   Current BLS (CPR) certification.