Launch Your Healthcare Career at General Leonard Wood Community Hospital
Are you a dedicated Physical Therapy Assistant seeking a mission-driven career? The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently recruiting for a Physical Therapy Assistant at the General Leonard Wood Community Hospital in Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. This position offers the unique chance to provide high-quality care to military service members, retirees, and their families while working in a collaborative, professional environment.
Location Spotlight: Fort Leonard Wood
Located in the heart of the Missouri Ozarks, Fort Leonard Wood is more than just a duty station; it is a community. With close proximity to the welcoming cities of Saint Robert and Waynesville, you will find a patriotic atmosphere, affordable cost-of-living, and breathtaking outdoor recreation. Whether you enjoy hiking, fishing, or simply participating in a tight-knit community, this region offers an ideal work-life balance for individuals and families alike.
Job Responsibilities
As a Physical Therapy Assistant, you will act as a vital contributor to the rehabilitation department. Key responsibilities include:
- Implementing Treatment Plans: Executing complex physical therapy duties based on evidence-based medicine.
- Patient Education: Providing clear instructions to patients and their families regarding treatment procedures and functional training.
- Data Analysis: Interpreting PT findings to help refine treatment approaches, considering cardiac, respiratory, and neurological status.
- Equipment Care: Ensuring all non-technical medical equipment is maintained to prevent malfunction.
- Clinical Collaboration: Working closely with Physical Therapists to ensure care maximizes healing and pain relief.
Comparison: Requirements vs. Qualification Paths
| Feature | Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Experience | 1 Year Specialized | Must be equivalent to GS-06 level |
| Education | Graduate Level | Related field required (e.g., Kinesiology) |
| Citizenship | Mandatory | U.S. Citizenship status required |
| Resume Limit | 2 Pages | Strictly enforced to avoid disqualification |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $50,460 to $65,599 per year. Employees of the federal government also gain access to a comprehensive suite of benefits, including health insurance options, retirement plans, and the stability that comes with a federal appointment. For high-potential candidates, there may even be the possibility of recruitment or relocation incentives.
Application Tips for Success
To stand out, follow these recommendations:
- Format Matters: Use clear, professional language. Your resume must be two pages or less.
- Be Specific: For every job listed in your history, include the name of the employer, your job title, start/end dates (month/year), and the number of hours worked per week.
- Documentation: If you are using your education to qualify, ensure your official transcripts are attached. Missing transcripts will lead to an "incomplete" status.
- Review Before Submitting: Use the USAJOBS portal to double-check that every required document has been uploaded and successfully scanned.
Joining the team at General Leonard Wood Community Hospital is an excellent step for any Physical Therapy Assistant who wants to impact lives directly. With a supportive culture, a competitive salary, and the chance to support our military heroes, this role is a perfect match for those dedicated to clinical excellence. Review your qualifications today and ensure your application is submitted before the November 9, 2026 deadline.
Why This Physical Therapy Assistant Job Matters
Advance your career in physical therapy by providing critical care to our nation's heroes and their families at General Leonard Wood Community Hospital.
Physical Therapy Assistant Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency is seeking a dedicated Physical Therapy Assistant to join the team at General Leonard Wood Community Hospital in Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. This position is a unique opportunity to contribute to a healthcare system that supports millions of service members and their families. As a key member of the rehabilitation team, you will implement complex treatment plans, provide essential patient education, and help maximize functional independence for those in our care. This is a Direct Hire opportunity located in a supportive, patriotic community known for its scenic beauty and high quality of life.
Requirements for Physical Therapy Assistant
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-06 grade level.
- Specialized experience includes implementing physical therapy treatment plans, instructing programs, and providing patient status reports.
- Education substitution: One full year of graduate-level education in fields such as Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Kinesiology, or Sports Medicine.
- A combination of education and experience may be used if the total percentage meets 100% of requirements.
- Must be able to maintain equipment and provide instruction to patients and family members.
- Completion of a 1-year probationary period is required.
Preferred Qualifications for Physical Therapy Assistant
- Demonstrated ability to interpret PT findings and adjust care based on clinical status.
- Strong communication skills for patient and family instruction.
- Advanced practical knowledge of evidence-based physical therapy interventions.
- Experience working in a fast-paced medical or hospital setting.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive federal salary with locality pay
- âś“Opportunities for professional growth within the Defense Health Agency
- âś“Comprehensive federal benefits package
- âś“Supportive community environment in the Ozarks
- âś“Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for highly qualified candidates
đź’ˇ How to Apply Physical Therapy Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physical Therapy Assistant Job
- Review your resume to ensure it is two pages or less and contains all required details.
- Log in to your USAJOBS account to start the online questionnaire.
- Upload all necessary documentation, including transcripts if using education to qualify.
- Ensure your resume includes specific hours worked per week and clear employment dates.
- Submit your complete package by the closing date of November 9, 2026.
- Monitor your application status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages; longer resumes will be automatically excluded.
- Use plain language and avoid jargon or acronyms that HR might not immediately recognize.
- Ensure you explicitly state hours worked per week for every position listed.
- If claiming education, ensure you submit your transcript; failure to do so will result in an ineligible rating.
- Check your application status regularly via your USAJOBS portal to ensure all documents are processed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary range for this position?
The salary range for this position is $50,460 to $65,599 per year, depending on qualifications and locality adjustments.
Can I substitute my education for the experience requirement?
Yes, one full year of graduate-level education in a field directly related to the position—such as Kinesiology or Physical Therapy—may be used to meet the requirements.
What happens if my resume exceeds two pages?
Per the announcement guidelines, resumes exceeding two pages will be removed from consideration, so please keep your document concise.
Is a security clearance required?
No, a security clearance is not required for this specific role, though it is designated as a non-sensitive, low-risk position.
Can I apply if I am not a veteran?
*A: Yes, this announcement is open to the public.*
Is there potential for promotion?
*A: This position has no promotion potential, with the grade level fixed at GS-07.*
What if I have a question about my status?
*A: You can log into your USAJOBS account at any time to check the application dashboard for updates.*
Job from Military Treatment Facilities Under Dha
The Defense Health Agency is an essential component of the Department of Defense, tasked with providing medical, dental, and pharmacy services to over 9.5 million beneficiaries worldwide. By working with the DHA, you become part of a global network of professionals committed to improving health, building medical readiness, and providing exceptional care whenever and wherever it is needed.