Physical Therapist

For the 2026-2027 school year


Part time position 0.5 FTE


Posting Period: Open until filled


Fair Labor Standards Act Status: Exempt

We appreciate your interest in employment with Vancouver Public Schools (VPS). All applications are considered and reviewed. The most qualified and competitive applicant(s) that possess directly related experience and expertise, training, and education may be invited to participate in the interview/selection process. As part of the selection process, the District conducts confidential reference checks to include former and present employers and also requires a criminal background investigation. Unfortunately, due to the number of applications received, not all applicants will receive an interview.

Résumés should include education, relevant experience (including current position), and skills which highlight the qualifications of the position to which a person is applying.

All district employees are encouraged to review their personnel file periodically to ensure that their file includes current and relevant documentation that supports their education, experience, training, etc., as it relates to qualifications described on job postings.

Qualifications:

• Educational Staff Associate Physical Therapist's certificate for the state of Washington, or eligibility for the certificate
• Hold a state license and has a current NPI number
• Must possess Washington State Department of Health Physical Therapist licensure or eligibility to obtain licensure
• Bachelor's degree program in Physical Therapy from an American Physical Therapy Association-approved institution; Master's degree preferred
• Must provide own transportation
• Must possess a valid driver's license
• Experience working in the field of special education within the public school setting, preferred
• Knowledge and experience in a variety of diagnoses, ages, and populations and applying the appropriate modalities
• Ability to relate well to administrators, teachers, parents, and students
• Ability to convey humor and positive energy with team members, students and parents as well as the motor team department
• Ability to work cooperatively with students and their parents who are culturally, racially, and linguistically diverse
• Advanced ability to use technology as an effective communication, planning, and instructional tool
• Willingness to participate in professional development courses aligned with the school and district initiatives

Essential Functions:

• Screens and evaluates students as to gross motor skills and functional abilities in order to assist in diagnosis and school placement
• Provides consultation to staff and parents regarding the functional needs of students with motor dysfunctions
• Administers physical therapy procedures and modalities designed to achieve the goals of the program established for each student
• Manages equipment, supplies, and repairs necessary for functional operation of physical therapy
• Works with well developed organizational and time management skills for managing documents and participation in evaluations, treatments and meetings for multiple school buildings, including maintenance of files
• Writes clear and concise reports and IEPs following State and district requirements
• Provides direct therapy treatment for students
• Works with staff on physical therapist roles, treatment plan and/or assessment results in a professional manner, with "parent-friendly" terminology
• Applies proper body mechanics to all situations requiring physical management of students
• Supervises and collaborates with a Physical Therapy Assistant on student plans, evaluations, and treatments
• Problem-solves and shows creativity in a variety of situations with limited resources
• Uses multiple frames of reference, models and theory bases for treatment
• Lifts up to 70 lbs. about 66-100% of the time with or without accommodation
• Maintains state licensure which allows billing of services
• Works in a flexible and cooperative manner
• Treats co-workers, supervisors, students, parents and others with dignity and respect at all times
• Serves as a positive role model for students, and practices the behaviors that are expected of our students
• Maintains regular and punctual attendance and hours of operation as set by the assigned building/location and the Comprehensive Professional Agreement to carry out the duties and responsibilities of the position to achieve program requirements
• Other duties as assigned

Benefits/Compensation:

• Salary range: $64,498 - $121,573 (includes Base & TRI enrichment; commensurate upon FTE, degree, credits and experience). Salary schedules can be accessed here.
• Additional Compensation: Certificated positions may have additional pay provisions above what is represented on the salary range such as, but not limited to TRI professional learning, extended year days, extra appendix E supplemental days and professional development reimbursement. Detailed information, including eligibility criteria, can be found in the VEA CBA. Salary schedules can be accessed here.
• Benefits: Employees who are anticipated to work at least 630 hours may be eligible for health, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, life, and disability insurance benefits. Detailed information, including further eligibility criteria, can be found here.
• Retirement: Employees may be eligible for retirement benefits through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems (DRS). Eligibility is based on FTE. Detailed information can be found here.
• Time Off: Includes paid time off, sick, personal, religious, military and bereavement leave.
  • Sick Leave: 8 hours per month (part-time employee accrual will be proportionate to their FTE).
  • Personal Leave: 3 days per school year
  • Detailed information, including accrual criteria can be found in the VEA CBA.

Such alternatives to the above requirements and desirable qualifications may be made as the district finds appropriate and acceptable.