Advance Your Career: Physical Therapy Assistant at the VA
The Central Alabama Veterans Health Care System (CAVHCS) is seeking a highly skilled and compassionate Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) to join our Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Service (PM&RS). This is a unique opportunity to provide top-tier care to Veterans in the Montgomery area, working in a facility where your clinical expertise directly improves the quality of life for those who have served our country.
Job Responsibilities
As a GS-9 Physical Therapy Assistant, you will serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in rehabilitation programs such as geriatrics, orthopedics, or cardiac rehabilitation. Key duties include:
- Treating Veterans in inpatient, outpatient, and community living center settings.
- Collaborating with Physical Therapists to implement complex, evidence-based treatment plans.
- Mentoring junior staff and participating in clinical education.
- Representing the department on medical center committees.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Education: Associate degree from a CAPTE-accredited program.
- Licensure: Current, full, active, and unrestricted PTA license.
- Experience: One year of experience at the next lower grade plus demonstrated advanced specialty proficiency.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Requirement | Essential | Preferred |
|---|---|---|
| Accredited PTA Degree | Yes | - |
| Active License | Yes | - |
| Specialty Certification (APP) | - | Yes |
| 2000+ Hours Specialty Experience | - | Yes |
Salary and Benefits
- Salary Range: $61,722 - $80,243 per year.
- Benefits: Employees enjoy robust federal benefits, including comprehensive health coverage, retirement planning, and generous paid time off.
Application Tips
- Be Explicit: Clearly define your clinical hours and duties in your resume.
- Upload Everything: Ensure your transcript, license, and any veteran preference documentation are included.
- Check Status: Monitor your application via your USAJOBS dashboard.
Serving as a Physical Therapy Assistant with the VA in Montgomery is more than a job—it is a mission. If you are ready to contribute your skills to an elite clinical team, apply today.
Why This Physical Therapy Assistant Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of our nation's heroes by joining the Central Alabama Veterans Health Care System as a Physical Therapy Assistant.
Physical Therapy Assistant Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated and skilled Physical Therapy Assistant to join the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Service team in Montgomery, Alabama. This role provides specialized, compassionate care to Veterans across various settings, including acute care, outpatient clinics, and community living centers. If you are an experienced PTA passionate about clinical excellence and evidence-based practice, this is an opportunity to serve those who have served our country.
Requirements for Physical Therapy Assistant
- U.S. Citizenship (non-citizens may be appointed only if no qualified citizens are available).
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted PTA license in a U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia.
- Associate degree in a physical therapy assistant program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Completion of a 1 or 2-year trial period.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program as a condition of employment.
Preferred Qualifications for Physical Therapy Assistant
- Advanced Practice Proficiency (APP) recognized by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).
- Minimum of 2000 hours of clinical practice in a specialty area within the last five years.
- Completion of 60 contact hours of specialty-focused continuing education coursework.
- Additional academic degrees relevant to the healthcare mission.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Generous paid time off, including vacation and sick leave
- ✓Federal retirement savings plan (TSP)
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities
- ✓Supportive work environment dedicated to Veteran care
💡 How to Apply Physical Therapy Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physical Therapy Assistant Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full job announcement and required documentation list.
- Prepare a detailed resume or CV highlighting your clinical experience.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all necessary documents, including transcripts and professional certifications.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly details your experience in a way that maps to the grade requirements.
- Be specific about your clinical practice hours and specialty certifications.
- Double-check that all required documents, such as transcripts and licenses, are legible.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to account for potential technical issues.
- Review your status in the USAJOBS portal periodically after submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the pay range for this position?
The salary for this GS-9 position ranges from $61,722 to $80,243 per year.
Is this a remote or telework-eligible position?
No, this is an on-site position at the Central Alabama Veterans Health Care System in Montgomery, AL.
What type of experience is required?
Candidates must have experience equivalent to the next lower grade and demonstrate advanced clinical competence in a specialty area of rehabilitation.
Is relocation assistance offered?
No, relocation and recruitment incentives are not authorized for this position.
Is this a virtual position?
No, this is an on-site clinical role requiring regular physical presence.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated 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." As a member of our clinical team, you will be part of an organization that prioritizes whole-health, evidence-based care and clinical excellence.