Pediatric Physical Therapist (Contract)

Title: Physical Therapist

Department: Rehabilitation

Reports to: Director of Rehabilitation

Contract: 8-12 Weeks

About CHONC

Children’s Health of Northern California (CHONC) is a leading pediatric healthcare provider committed to compassionate, specialized care for medically complex children. In our subacute setting, we care for children who require ongoing medical support while striving to improve their functional abilities and quality of life. Join our collaborative, multidisciplinary team and help bring healing and hope to children and their families. Help us make each small victory a big step forward.

Position Summary

We are seeking a dedicated Pediatric Physical Therapist to provide exceptional care to individuals from birth to 20 years old with medically complex conditions in our subacute facility. This role focuses on maximizing each child's functional mobility, comfort, and participation in daily activities, while integrating therapeutic goals into a holistic care plan. Ideal candidates will have experience in or a strong interest in working with children who have chronic conditions, ventilator dependence, gastrostomy dependence, neuromuscular disorders, or significant developmental delays. Flexible hours- approximately 32-40 hours per week.

Key Responsibilities

• Evaluate and treat pediatric patients with complex medical needs including tracheostomies, ventilator support, gastrostomy feeding tube, neurological conditions, congenital abnormalities, developmental delays, and traumatic brain injuries.
• Design and implement individualized therapy plans to improve strength, range of motion, positioning, mobility, and overall quality of life.
• Collaborate closely with interdisciplinary team members including nurses, respiratory therapists, occupational and speech therapists, and physicians.
• Supervises Physical Therapy Assistants and/or Physical Therapy Aides and RNAs in direct resident care and patient related activities.
• Provide caregiver education and training to promote carryover of therapy goals into daily routines.
• Document all assessments, daily progress notes, discharge summaries, and care plans in compliance with regulatory and facility standards.
• Participate in care team meetings and contribute to long-term care planning and discharge readiness.
• Records treatment charges per policy and procedure.
• Secure necessary durable medical equipment for residents to facilitate independence in mobility (i.e. orthoses, walkers, standing frames, etc).
• Assists with monthly wheelchair clinic.
• Reports any problem with department equipment so that it is maintained in good working order.
• Acts as a clinical preceptor for affiliating Physical Therapy or Therapy Assistant Schools.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) or Master’s in Physical Therapy (MPT) from an accredited program.
• Valid California Physical Therapy License (or eligibility to obtain prior to start date).
• Pediatric or subacute/long-term care experience preferred but willing to train.
• Current CPR Certification
• Comfortable working with patients with complex medical needs, including assistive technology and adaptive equipment.
• Sufficient verbal and written communication skills to perform the tasks required.
• Strong teamwork, clinical judgment, and communication skills.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus.

What We Offer

• Great team of Rehab Supervisors, OTs, and SLPs
• Flexible hours (approximately 32-40 hours per week)
• Continuing education and clinical development opportunities
• A chance to make a lasting impact on children’s lives in a deeply meaningful care setting