Physical Therapist

Job Description
Job Summary

A Physical Therapist evaluates, diagnoses, and treats patients with physical impairments, injuries, or disabilities. The role focuses on restoring mobility, reducing pain, and improving overall functional ability through evidence-based therapeutic interventions.

Work Environment

• Hospitals
• Outpatient clinics
• Rehabilitation centers
• Skilled nursing facilities
• Home health settings

Salary (Seattle, WA)

• Average salary: ~$117,000/year
• Typical range: $105,000 - $128,000
• Entry-level roles may start around ~$100,000/year

Salary varies based on experience, specialization, and workplace setting.

Key Skills

• Patient assessment & clinical reasoning
• Manual therapy techniques
• Rehabilitation planning
• Communication & patient education
• Time management & documentation

Career Growth Opportunities

• Senior Physical Therapist / Specialist
• Clinical Supervisor or Manager
• Rehabilitation Director
• Specializations (sports therapy, Neuro rehab, pediatrics, etc.)

Requirements
Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive patient assessments and develop individualized treatment plans
• Administer therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and modalities (e.g., heat, electrical stimulation)
• Monitor patient progress and modify treatment plans as needed
• Educate patients and families on injury prevention, home exercises, and lifestyle modifications
• Collaborate with physicians and interdisciplinary healthcare teams
• Maintain accurate clinical documentation and patient records
• Ensure compliance with healthcare regulations and clinic standards
• Supervise physical therapy assistants or students (if applicable)

Physical therapists commonly treat conditions such as neurological impairments, injuries, and post-surgical recovery cases.


Required Qualifications

• Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from an accredited program
• Active Washington State Physical Therapist license
• Strong knowledge of anatomy, bio mechanics, and therapeutic techniques
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a healthcare team

Preferred Qualifications

• 1-3+ years of clinical experience (varies by employer)
• Specialty certifications (e.g., Orthopedics, Sports, Neurology)
• Experience with electronic medical records (EMR) systems