Launch Your Career as a Physical Therapy Assistant at the Charleston VA

Are you a dedicated Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) looking for a career that offers both professional growth and the deep satisfaction of helping those who have served our country? The Ralph H. Johnson VA Health Care System in Charleston, South Carolina, is currently seeking a motivated professional to join our Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation team.

Job Responsibilities

As a PTA, you will carry a full patient caseload, providing treatment that promotes the prevention, remediation, and rehabilitation of acute and chronic dysfunctions. Your daily duties will include:

Treatment Implementation: Administering therapeutic exercises, gait training, and modalities under the supervision of a physical therapist.
Patient Monitoring: Observing and recording patient progress, vital signs, and functional status.
Education: Instructing patients and their families on home exercise programs and the use of mobility aids.
Collaboration: Participating in multidisciplinary team meetings to coordinate discharge planning and treatment modifications.

Comparison: Developmental vs. Journey Level

Feature	GS-7 (Developmental)	GS-8 (Journey Level)
Independence	Receives ongoing guidance	Works independently with PT collaboration
Skill Application	Focuses on basic competencies	Advanced evidenced-based interventions
Role Focus	Learning and initial assessment	Comprehensive treatment modification

Requirements

To qualify for this position, you must be a U.S. citizen and possess a current, active, and unrestricted PTA license. You must also hold an associate degree from an accredited PTA program or have completed an approved military program. Additionally, you must be proficient in spoken and written English and pass a pre-employment physical examination.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $57,763 to $75,089 per year. Beyond the paycheck, the VA provides an excellent benefits package, including federal health insurance, a generous leave policy, and access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).

How to Apply

Prepare your documentation: Ensure your resume, transcripts, and licensure are ready.
Use the correct template: The VA requires a specific clinical resume format found on the VA Careers website.
Apply online: Submit your application via the official USAJOBS portal before the closing date of July 24, 2026.

Working as a Physical Therapy Assistant for the VA in Charleston is a unique opportunity to use your skills in a setting that truly values patient outcomes. If you are ready to make a difference, apply today and join our mission to care for our nation's Veterans.

Why This Physical Therapy Assistant Job Matters

Make a lasting impact on the lives of those who served. Join the Ralph H. Johnson VA Health Care System in Charleston as a Physical Therapy Assistant and deliver life-changing care to our nation's heroes.

Physical Therapy Assistant Job Overview

The Ralph H. Johnson VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) to join our Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Service team. In this role, you will provide essential rehabilitation services, working under the guidance of Physical Therapists to help Veterans regain function, manage chronic pain, and improve their quality of life. This position offers the opportunity to work in diverse settings, including acute inpatient and outpatient environments, ensuring a dynamic and rewarding career within the federal healthcare system.

Requirements for Physical Therapy Assistant

U.S. Citizenship
Current, full, active, and unrestricted PTA license in a U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia
Associate degree in an accredited Physical Therapy Assistant program OR graduation from an approved military program
Proficiency in written and spoken English
Successful completion of the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs
Must pass a pre-employment physical examination and background investigation

Preferred Qualifications for Physical Therapy Assistant

2-3+ years of professional experience in outpatient orthopedics
Experience working in an inpatient acute care hospital setting
Strong ability to collaborate within interdisciplinary healthcare teams

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary and annual leave accrual
✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options
✓Federal retirement savings plan (TSP) with matching contributions
✓Opportunities for professional development and continuing education
✓Supportive, mission-driven work environment

💡 How to Apply Physical Therapy Assistant Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Physical Therapy Assistant Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS.gov account
Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume Document from the provided link
Upload your resume, transcripts, and proof of licensure/certification
Submit your application questionnaire through the USA Staffing portal by the deadline
Monitor your email for status updates and potential interview requests

💡 General Tips

Use the specific VA clinical resume template provided in the job announcement to ensure your application is processed correctly.
Be detailed in your resume; do not assume the hiring team knows your previous responsibilities—clearly list your experience with specific therapeutic modalities.
If claiming Veterans' Preference, ensure your DD214 is uploaded and clearly shows your character of service.
Double-check that your license is currently active and in good standing before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply if my PTA license is pending?

Generally, you must hold an active, unrestricted license to be appointed, though applicants nearing completion of requirements may be referred under certain conditions.

Is this position eligible for remote work?

No, this is an onsite position at the Ralph H. Johnson VA Health Care System in Charleston, requiring direct patient interaction.

What is the work schedule for this role?

The standard schedule is Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, with the expectation of working weekends and holidays as needed.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class healthcare to our nation's Veterans. The Ralph H. Johnson VA Health Care System is a premier facility that prioritizes compassionate, whole-person care. Working here means more than just a job; it is a commitment to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors."