Physical Therapist II

Commonwealth of Massachusetts • Northampton, MA

18d

About The Position

The Department of Developmental Services is dedicated to creating, in partnership with others, innovative and genuine opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities to participate fully and meaningfully in, and contribute to, their communities as valued members.
The Physical Therapist II is an excellent opportunity for experienced professionals in this field to make a significant difference in the lives of the individuals who are supported by the Department of Developmental Services (DDS). This position functions as a member of a multi-discipline clinical support team by providing direct services to address the physical therapy needs of the individuals supported by the DDS State-Operated Community programs in the Central/West Region. This position will also provide consultative services for the individuals supported through the Central/West Area Offices.
The Physical Therapist II provides comprehensive physical therapy evaluations, direct diagnostic and treatment services, and recommendations for individuals with complex and unique needs. In addition, this position provides education and training in physical therapy services to individuals, staff and families to support implementation of guidelines and treatment plans, as well as monitors, evaluates, and documents outcomes. The Physical Therapist II functions mostly in the consultative model providing assessments, treatment recommendations and training in conjunction with other clinicians of the Clinical Support Team.

Requirements

• Applicants must have at least one year of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional experience as a physical therapist.
• Possession of a current and valid Physical Therapist license issued by the Massachusetts Division of Licensure Board of Allied Health Professionals in accordance with Chapter 667 of the Acts of 1982.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for planning, developing, and administering varied physical therapy services that support individuals’ needs in various settings including worksites, day programs, residences or other sites.
• Evaluate and assess individual needs by administering tests, measurements and evaluations using standardized or recommended procedures to establish or revise specifics of individual treatment.
• Recommend, procure, modify and monitor adapted equipment, seating systems, and environmental adaptations in consultation with the DDS/Assistive technology Center personnel, commercial vendors, other clinicians, service coordinators, agency staff, family members and residential or day program staff as appropriate.
• Submit the necessary paperwork/documentation to obtain approval/funding for adaptive equipment.
• Provide physical therapy consultation to agency and community staff, professional disciplines, family members, home/day programs and worksites through observation, training sessions, conferences, consultation and reports to address individual needs and mobilize physical therapy resources.
• Provide or arrange in-service training for professional and ancillary staff in treatment approaches and interventions for individuals with physical therapy needs.
• Responsible for maintaining knowledge and proficiency of professional practice through participation in conferences, seminars, review of literature and workshops to ensure provision of quality services, as well as meeting continuing education requirements to maintain licensure.
• Provide staff training in the areas of body mechanics, transfers, positioning, handling techniques, use and maintenance of adaptive equipment including wheelchairs, follow-up evaluation recommendations, and other areas as needed to assist other clinical staff in training.
• Report routinely on the status of physical therapy needs through formal and informal meetings to maintain and improve all aspects of service delivery.
• Demonstrate appropriate communication skills through effective communication with individuals, staff and peers to establish effective working relationships.

Benefits

• When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.
• Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!
• An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
• The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100%25 of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees