Physical Therapist Assistant, PTA

Join KALESTA HEALTHCARE GROUP and make a meaningful impact by supporting high-quality, compassionate rehabilitation care for residents in our skilled nursing facility. This is an excellent opportunity for a graduating student, new graduate, or experienced Physical Therapist Assistant with Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) experience looking to build or continue a rewarding career in Physical Therapy while working closely with residents, families, caregivers, licensed Physical Therapists, and an interdisciplinary healthcare team.

• Direct Hiring in Skilled Nursing Facilities across Northern California: Menlo Park
• Pay ranges may vary depending on the location.
• $2,500 Retention Bonus — For full-time positions in California.
• $2,500 Relocation Bonus — Available for Modesto, Manteca, Los Banos, Merced, and Chico facilities. Typically eligible after 90 days.
• $5,000 Student Loan Repayment — Per calendar year.
• $2,500 Referral Bonus
• $500 Annual License Renewal Bonus — Covers license renewal, CPR, and CEU expenses per calendar year.
• H-1B Sponsorship / H-1B Transfer Assistance — Available for eligible full-time employees

The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) provides appropriate aspects of physical therapy care under the direction and supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist. The PTA implements established treatment plans, provides physical therapy interventions, monitors patient responses, documents patient progress, and communicates with patients, families, caregivers, and the rehabilitation team to support positive functional outcomes.

Reporting: This position reports directly to the Physical Therapist and Facility Rehab Director.

Why This Role Matters

• Implement and carry out established physical therapy treatment plans under the supervision of the Physical Therapist
• Provide appropriate physical therapy interventions according to the established treatment plan
• Assist patients with therapeutic exercises, mobility, transfers, balance, strength, coordination, and functional activities
• Monitor patient response to treatment and report changes in patient status or needs to the supervising Physical Therapist
• Communicate with patients, families, physicians, and other members of the interdisciplinary team
• Provide patient education and reinforcement of treatment plans as directed by the Physical Therapist
• Provide timely and accurate documentation according to facility, department, and payer requirements
• Document treatment and patient progress to support licensing, certification, regulatory, reimbursement, and physician requirements
• Participate in patient screening and identify changes or concerns that should be reported to the supervising Physical Therapist
• Coordinate treatment activities and goals with other members of the rehabilitation team
• Use professional judgment to ensure the safety of patients, staff, and others
• Participate in interdisciplinary teamwork and effective communication
• Attend required meetings, in-services, training sessions, and educational presentations
• Prepare and submit accurate patient charges and billing information
• Support department operations and development
• Maintain awareness of patient and community needs, conditions, and available rehabilitation programs
• Maintain and enhance clinical and professional knowledge through continuing education and professional development
• Maintain valid licensure and required certifications

What We’re Looking For

Education and License

• Currently completing or recently graduated from an approved Physical Therapist Assistant program
• Graduating students and new graduates are encouraged to apply
• Must have an active California Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) license
• CPR certification required; candidates who do not yet have CPR certification may obtain it prior to or during the onboarding process
• Must be in good standing with applicable regulatory agencies and licensing boards

Experience

• Experience working in a Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF)
• No prior skilled nursing facility experience required for graduating students and new graduates
• Clinical experience through clinical rotations, internships, externships, or clinical placements
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities simultaneously

Qualifications & Skills

• Strong clinical foundation in Physical Therapy
• Ability to follow and implement physical therapy treatment plans under the direction and supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist
• Knowledge of therapeutic exercises, mobility training, transfers, balance, strengthening, and functional activities
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Compassionate and empathetic approach to patient care
• Strong documentation and organizational skills
• Proficiency with EMR and rehabilitation systems or willingness to learn
• Ability to work effectively as part of an interdisciplinary team
• Strong desire to learn, grow, and build a career in skilled nursing rehabilitation
• Professional presentation and conduct
• Commitment to continuing education and professional development
• Understanding of patient rights, confidentiality, and HIPAA requirements
• Physical & Working Conditions
• Skilled Nursing Facility environment
• Ability to move intermittently throughout the workday
• Ability to sit and walk for extended periods
• Ability to bend, squat, push, stoop, and pull as required for resident care
• Ability to assist with patient transfers, mobility, positioning, and therapeutic activities
• Ability to lift and move up to 100 pounds with assistance according to resident needs
• Potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens, chemicals, fumes, and odors
• Ability to manage the physical, mental, and emotional demands associated with skilled nursing care
• Ability to work effectively in a 24-hour skilled care environment