Travel Physical Therapist (PT) - $1,672 to $2,014 per week in Santa Cruz, CA

Physical Therapist
Location: Santa Cruz, CA
Agency: Fusion Medical Staffing
Pay: $1,672 to $2,014 per week
Shift Information: Days - 5 days x 8 hours
Contract Duration: 13 Weeks
Start Date: 11/16/2026

About the Position

Travel Physical Therapist (PT)

Company: Fusion Medical Staffing

Location: Facility in Santa Cruz, CA

Job Details

Fusion Medical Staffing is seeking a skilled Physical Therapist for a 13-week travel assignment in Santa Cruz, CA. As a member of our team, you'll have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of patients while enjoying competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and the support of a dedicated clinical team.

Required Qualifications:

• Valid Physical Therapy license in compliance with state regulations
• Current BLS certification (AHA/ARC)

Preferred Qualifications:

• Doctorate degree in physical therapy
• Physical Therapy experience, but New Grads are welcome to apply
• Other certifications or licenses may be required for this position

Summary:

The Physical Therapist evaluates, diagnoses, and treats patients with physical impairments to improve mobility, reduce pain, and enhance quality of life. Working in settings such as hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation centers, they create personalized, evidence-based treatment plans using exercise and manual therapy to help patients recover and become independent. This role requires strong clinical skills, effective communication, critical thinking, and a commitment to high-quality, safe patient care.

Essential Work Functions:

• Evaluate patients’ physical conditions using standardized tests, clinical examinations, and patient history to identify functional limitations and treatment need
• Develop personalized rehabilitation programs based on assessment findings and patient goals
• Implement physical therapy treatment plans using various techniques to improve patient mobility and reduce pain
• Operate specialized physical therapy equipment and modalities safely and effectively, ensuring proper maintenance and calibration of devices
• Assess patient progress, adjust treatment plans as necessary, and accurately document evaluations, interventions, and outcomes in the medical record
• Work closely with physicians, nurses, occupational therapists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure coordinated care and optimize treatment outcomes
• Educate patients and caregivers on home exercise programs, proper body mechanics, injury prevention strategies, and self-management techniques to promote long-term functional recovery
• Maintain a safe treatment environment by adhering to infection control protocols, safety guidelines, and regulatory standards while addressing patients’ comfort needs during therapy sessions
• Engage in quality assurance initiatives and professional development activities to remain current with best practices in physical therapy
• Collaborate in discharge planning to ensure smooth transitions and continued patient progress in community or home-based settings
• Perform other duties as assigned within scope of practice

Required Essential Skills:

• Critical thinking, service excellence, and good interpersonal communication skills
• The ability to read, write, and communicate in the English language
• Ability to read/comprehend written instructions, follow verbal instructions, and proficiency in PC skills
• Physical Abilities - Must be able to remain in a stationary position, move about, move equipment (50-100lbs), push, pull, and bend
• Interpersonal Skills - Must be able to work effectively with a variety of personnel (professional and ancillary) to present a positive attitude and professionalism
• Technical/Motor Skills - Must have the ability to grasp, perform fine manipulation, push/pull, and move about when assisting with procedures and/or using department equipment
• Mental Requirements - Must be able to cope with frequent contact with the general public and customers while meeting deadlines under pressure. Must be able to work under close supervision occasionally, as well as working without assistance from other personnel. Must be able to contend with irregular activity schedules occasionally and continuous concentration to detail
• Sensory - Must possess visual acuity and ability to effectively communicate

Benefits Include:

• Highly competitive pay for travel professionals
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance with first day coverage
• Paid Time Off (PTO) after 1560 hours
• Life and Short-term disability offered
• 401(k) matching
• Aggressive Refer-a-friend Bonus Program
• 24/7 recruiter support
• Reimbursement for licensure and CEUs

Why Choose Fusion?

At Fusion Medical Staffing, our goal is to improve the lives of everyone we touch, and we're always looking for people like you to join our mission. Your passion for helping others deserves a partner just as committed to supporting you — that’s why we offer day one insurance, $0 copay for mental health services, scholarships and awards, exclusive discounts, and more. From your personal recruiter to our clinical and traveler experience teams, we’re here to guide and celebrate you along your journey. You take care of others; we take care of you.

Other Duties Disclaimer:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Other duties may be assigned. This job description is not a comprehensive list of all activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job and is subject to change at any time with or without notice.

Start your rewarding career as a Travel Physical Therapist (PT) with Fusion Medical Staffing and join our mission to improve lives. Apply now!

*Fusion is an EOE/E-Verify Employer