Physical Therapist - Smyrna, TN

WHY THRIVE THERAPIES

School-based PTs are essential to student mobility, independence, and full participation in school life - yet many practice without adequate consultation time, peer support, or workloads aligned to best practice.

Thrive partners with districts that value physical therapy as integral to educational access. You'll work in environments where your expertise in gross motor development, mobility, and functional capacity is sought at the IEP level and embedded throughout the school day - not limited to isolated sessions.

POSITION SUMMARY

As a School-Based Physical Therapist, you assess and treat students K-12 with gross motor, mobility, neuromotor, and musculoskeletal challenges that impact educational participation and independence. You design individualized interventions targeting functional mobility, postural stability, endurance, and environmental access to support academic engagement.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct comprehensive PT evaluations including gross motor assessment, functional mobility screening, postural analysis, and school-based functional capacity assessment
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• Develop and implement IEP goals focused on school function: mobility, transfers, positioning, locomotion, and physical education participation
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• Deliver direct and consultative PT services including therapeutic exercise, mobility training, gait training, and positioning strategies
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• Assess and recommend adaptive equipment: wheelchairs, walkers, orthotics, positioning devices, and accessibility modifications
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• Collaborate with OTs, SLPs, and special education staff on comprehensive student support and transition planning
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• Provide in-service training to staff and families on positioning, mobility assistance, and safe handling techniques
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• Participate in IEP/ARD meetings and contribute to transition planning for secondary students
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REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) or Master's degree in Physical Therapy from an accredited program
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• Valid, unrestricted state licensure as a Physical Therapist (NPTE board certification)
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• Proof of immunization status and background check clearance per school district requirements
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• CPR/BLS certification
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PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• 2+ years of school-based or pediatric PT experience (new graduates welcome with structured mentorship)
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• Pediatric specialty certification or training in neurodevelopmental treatment (NDT)
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• Experience with adaptive equipment, assistive technology, and accessibility assessment
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• Experience with autism spectrum disorder and complex physical disabilities
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• Bilingual capability a meaningful plus
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COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• Competitive W-2 salary: $68,000-$76,000 based on credentials, experience, and location
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• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision) effective your first day
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• 401(k) with company match
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• 10 days PTO + paid sick leave
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• Professional development stipend ($1,200 annually) for CEUs, conferences, and certifications
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• $2,000 sign-on bonus (paid at 90 days)
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• $1,000 semester retention bonus per semester completed
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• State PT license dues and state licensure fees fully reimbursed
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• Malpractice and professional liability coverage provided by Thrive
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• No non-compete clause - we earn your loyalty by being a place worth staying
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$68,000 - $76,000 a year

APPLY TODAY

[email protected] | thrivetherapiesgroup.com/careers

We respond to every application within 24 hours. Thrive Therapies Group is an equal opportunity employer.