Physical Therapist Aides
Job Zone 2 - Some preparation needed
Under close supervision of a physical therapist or physical therapy assistant, perform only delegated, selected, or routine tasks in specific situations. These duties include preparing the patient and the treatment area.
Median pay: $35,240/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +2.8% projected growth, 2024–2034 — about as fast as average.
About 6,600 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Clean and organize work area and disinfect equipment after treatment.
• Secure patients into or onto therapy equipment.
• Instruct, motivate, safeguard, or assist patients practicing exercises or functional activities, under direction of medical staff.
• Confer with physical therapy staff or others to discuss and evaluate patient information for planning, modifying, or coordinating treatment.
• Observe patients during treatment to compile and evaluate data on patients' responses and progress and report to physical therapist.
• Change linens, such as bed sheets and pillow cases.
• Administer active or passive manual therapeutic exercises, therapeutic massage, or heat, light, sound, water, or electrical modality treatments, such as ultrasound.
• Transport patients to and from treatment areas, using wheelchairs or providing standing support.
What's the median pay for Physical Therapist Aides?
The median pay for Physical Therapist Aides is $35,240 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Physical Therapist Aides?
Employment for Physical Therapist Aides is projected to change +2.8% from 2024 to 2034 - about as fast as average.
What education is typically required for Physical Therapist Aides?
Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.
How many job openings are there each year for Physical Therapist Aides?
About 6,600 openings per year, on average, over the decade.