Physical Therapist- License Pending - Full Time

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab • Chicago, IL

2d

About The Position

The Physical Therapist - License Pending, under the supervision of a Licensed Physical Therapist will assist patients in reaching maximum physical performance while adjusting to disabilities. Under the supervision of the Licensed Physical Therapist who will be the lead, will treat disabled patients using standard physical therapy therapeutic interventions such as heat, cold, electricity, traction, ultrasound and exercise. Under the supervision of the Licensed Physical Therapist, will evaluate patient motor and neurological capabilities and adapt physical therapy programs as appropriate. The Physical Therapist - License Pending will consistently demonstrate support of the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab statement of Vision, Mission and Core Values by striving for excellence, contributing to the team efforts and showing respect and compassion for patients and their families, fellow employees, and all others with whom there is contact at or in the interest of the institute. The Physical Therapist - License Pending will demonstrate Shirley Ryan AbilityLab Core Attributes: Communication, Accountability, Flexibility/Adaptability, Judgment/Problem Solving, Customer Service and Core Values (Hope, Compassion, Discovery, Collaboration, and Commitment to Excellence) while fulfilling job duties.

Requirements

• Knowledge of anatomy and physiology and physical therapy treatments and modalities at a level normally acquired through completion of Doctoral degree from an accredited school of physical therapy.
• Illinois License to practice as a Physical Therapist pending with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
• Current CPR or BLS certification from the American Heart Association or American Red Cross required.
• Understanding of the growth and development of infant, child, adolescent and geriatric patients.
• Ability to interpret growth and development related information to assure patient needs are met.
• Interpersonal skills to interact with physicians, patients and families in providing therapy and exchanging patient progress information.
• Analytical ability to determine priorities, provide input regarding the development of departmental policies, procedures and budgets, and assess new programs and recommend changes.
• Ability to lift 20 to 50 pounds occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds frequently to transfer and position patients.

Responsibilities

• While under the direct supervision of the Licensed Physical Therapist, will evaluate patient's physical and functional status including muscular strength, motor functions, reflexes, ambulation skills and ability to perform activities of daily living.
• Under the direct supervision of the Licensed Physical Therapist, observes and interviews patient, reviews medical history, and administers sensory tests, muscle tests, range-of-motion exams, and other evaluation techniques.
• Under the direct supervision of the Licensed Physical Therapist, determines suitability for treatment based on patient evaluation results, including such physical therapy treatment modalities as whirlpool, ultrasounds, massage, biofeedback, paraffin and prosthetics/orthotics and/or monitors or administers the application of treatment.
• Under the direct supervision of the Licensed Physical Therapist, establishes therapy goals, and formulates a treatment plan including exercise, modalities, balance activities, and gait training.
• Under the direct supervision of the Licensed Physical Therapist, discusses evaluation, goals, and treatment with patient and family and instructs them on the exercise program and in use of equipment.
• Under the direct supervision of the Licensed Physical Therapist, participates in patient discharge planning including developing an in-home program when appropriate.
• Under the direct supervision of the Licensed Physical Therapist, documents patient evaluation and progress, maintaining records for physicians and insurance carriers.
• Under the direct supervision of the Licensed Physical Therapist, determines and orders appropriate devices necessary to assist patients in performing physical activities such as wheelchairs, canes, crutches and prosthetic and orthopedic devices.
• Upon licensure, may participate in the Department education program by teaching and supervising students.
• Under the direct supervision of the Licensed Physical Therapist, participates in research projects as needed.
• Performs all other duties that may be assigned in the best interest of the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, under appropriate supervision.

Benefits

• Generous Paid Time Off: Up to 25 days of PTO plus 6 holidays per year to recharge, travel, and focus on what matters most.
• Professional Growth & Learning: Continuing education and approved CEUs for PT/OT/SLP, plus 50% reimbursement (up to $1,000) for advanced certifications.
• Tuition Assistance: Up to $5,250 annually in tuition reimbursement to support your next degree.
• Career Advancement: Opportunities to grow within clinical/research specialties and leadership pathways across SRAlab’s integrated care teams.
• Wellness + Balance: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage, robust wellness and mental health support.
• Recognition + Rewards: Annual merit-based pay reviews and opportunities for differential pay for evening/weekend shifts.
• Loan Forgiveness Eligibility: Qualify for the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.
• Mission-Driven Work: Be part of a team that transforms lives.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree