Launch Your Career as a Physical Therapy Assistant at Fort Eustis
The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently seeking a dedicated and skilled Physical Therapy Assistant to join our team at the McDonald Army Health Center in Fort Eustis, Virginia. This role is essential to maintaining the readiness and health of our nation's military service members. If you are passionate about rehabilitation and want to work in an environment that values professional excellence, this position offers a unique opportunity to serve those who protect our country.
Job Responsibilities
As a Physical Therapy Assistant, you will work alongside a staff of 6 Physical Therapists and 6 PTAs. Your primary responsibilities include:
- Implementing and adapting patient treatment plans to restore strength, range of motion, and endurance.
- Monitoring patients for potential acute distress or changes in health status.
- Providing technical guidance to junior staff and students.
- Participating in interdisciplinary meetings to ensure optimal patient outcomes.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- U.S. citizenship.
- One year of specialized experience in clinical rehabilitation.
- OR one full year of graduate-level education in a field like Kinesiology, Sports Medicine, or Physical Therapy.
- A willingness to undergo a background and suitability review.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $51,210 to $66,574 per year. Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including health insurance, retirement options, and generous paid time off.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $51,210 - $66,574 |
| Location | Fort Eustis, VA |
| Job Type | Full-Time, Federal |
| Security Clearance | Not Required |
Application Tips
Ensure your resume is no longer than two pages. Clearly list your duties, hours worked per week, and employment dates. Always double-check that your application is submitted before the September 8, 2026, deadline.
This role is an excellent opportunity for physical therapy professionals to advance their careers while supporting the military mission. We invite all qualified candidates to apply before the closing date.
Why This Physical Therapy Assistant Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who serve our nation. Join the Defense Health Agency as a Physical Therapy Assistant at Fort Eustis and provide critical rehabilitative care in an integrated clinical setting.
Physical Therapy Assistant Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency is seeking a dedicated Physical Therapy Assistant to join the team at the McDonald Army Health Center in Fort Eustis, Virginia. You will work in a collaborative environment with a diverse team of professionals, including physical therapists and technical staff, to provide high-quality care to military service members across all five branches. This is a vital role focused on restorative therapy, patient progression, and clinical support within a premier military treatment facility.
Requirements for Physical Therapy Assistant
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must possess at least one year of specialized experience in implementing physical therapy treatment plans and instructing patients on therapy programs.
- Completion of one full year of graduate-level education in a related field such as Physical Therapy, Kinesiology, Sports Medicine, or Exercise Science.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment drug test.
- Must complete a one-year probationary period upon hiring.
- Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must register for Selective Service.
Preferred Qualifications for Physical Therapy Assistant
- Proven experience performing rehabilitative treatments in a clinical or hospital setting.
- Strong technical communication skills for educating other personnel and patients.
- Ability to monitor patients for acute distress or changes in physical status.
- Demonstrated expertise in therapeutic modalities, gait training, and orthopedic rehabilitation.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans.
- ✓Paid federal holidays, vacation time, and sick leave.
- ✓Potential for recruitment incentives for highly qualified candidates.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and interdisciplinary training.
- ✓Stable career growth within the Department of Defense healthcare system.
💡 How to Apply Physical Therapy Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physical Therapy Assistant Job
- Log into your USAJOBS account or create a new profile.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Upload a resume of two pages or less that specifically details your relevant experience.
- Submit official transcripts if qualifying via the education substitution path.
- Ensure all documents are attached and verify the submission status before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages; longer resumes will be automatically excluded.
- Quantify your experience by including start/end dates (month and year) and average hours worked per week for every position.
- Avoid industry jargon and acronyms—write clearly so a non-specialist can understand your past duties.
- Verify that your application status on the USAJOBS dashboard shows as complete before the cutoff time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position open to the general public?
Yes, this is a public vacancy open to all U.S. citizens.
What is the work location for this role?
This position is based at the McDonald Army Health Center in Fort Eustis, Virginia.
Can I substitute education for the required experience?
Yes, a combination of graduate-level education and work experience can be used to meet the 100% requirement threshold.
Job from Military Treatment Facilities Under Dha
The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is a joint, integrated combat support agency that enables the military medical services to provide a medically ready force and ready medical force to the Combatant Commands in both peacetime and wartime. By joining the DHA, you become part of a global team committed to providing high-quality healthcare to 9.5 million uniformed service members, retirees, and their families.