Physical Therapy Assistant
SummaryThe Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) will work in the Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R) Service at the Jack C.
Montgomery VA Medical Center in Muskogee, Oklahoma.
The PTA will provide treatment that promotes the prevention, remediation, and rehabilitation of acute and chronic physical and psychosocial dysfunction.
The treatment areas will include inpatient, outpatient, and acute care as dictated by the needs of the service in Tulsa, Oklahoma or Muskogee, Oklahoma.
Learn more about this agencyHelpOverview Accepting applications Open & closing dates 07/27/2023 to 08/17/2023 Salary $51,713 - $67,231 per year Pay scale & grade GS 8 Help Location1 vacancy in the following location Muskogee, OK 1 vacancy Remote job No Telework eligible No Travel Required 25% or less - You may be expected to travel to other VA Clinics for this position.
Relocation expenses reimbursed No Appointment type Permanent - Work schedule Full-time - Service Excepted Promotion potential 8 Job family (Series) 0636 Rehabilitation Therapy Assistant Supervisory status No Security clearance Other Drug test No Position sensitivity and risk Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk Trust determination process CredentialingSuitability/Fitness Announcement number CBSU-12061924-23-CDM Control number 739728200HelpThis job is open to Internal to an agency Current federal employees of this agency.
Clarification from the agencyThis is an internal job announcement open to current, permanent employees with the Jack C.
Montgomery VA Medical Center and past, current, or upcoming VHA Health Professional Trainees (HPT).
First consideration will be given to current permanent employees with the Jack C.
Montgomery VA Medical Center.
Veterans Preference is not used on internal announcements.
All U.
S.
Citizens and employees from other federal agencies should apply to vacancy announcement 12069125.
VideosHelpDutiesThe duties of the Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) working with the Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R) Service include, but are not limited to:
Administers and monitors therapeutic interventions based on goals formulated by a Physical Therapist.
Participates in the coordination of activities within the Physical Therapy section of PM&R Service to maintain quantity and quality of work production.
Responsible for the execution of regular and highly specialized treatment of patients.
Advance patients to higher levels of activity and consults the Physical Therapist regarding special cases.
Trains patients and family/caregivers in safe operation and maintenance of home equipment Coordinates the ordering and delivery and the training in the use of assistive devices/technology in a timely, efficient and accurate manner; must be familiar with all internal and external processes related to the procurement of prosthetic equipment.
Familiar with current practices and medical research regarding effective care for those in geriatric care settings and able to implement those practices in therapy.
Demonstrate an understanding of the range of treatment and skills needed for all adult patients including geriatric patients related to physical limitations, unique psychological needs, and age associated illnesses and conditions.
Administers thermos-therapy, hydrotherapy, hot packs, electrical stimulation, TENS, diathermy, ultrasound, traction and exercises as indicated by a Physical Therapist.
Administers therapeutic exercise, teaches transfer activities, mobility exercises and gait training to a wide variety of disabilities and diagnosis, selects, adapts and/or fits assistive devices in accordance with rehabilitation goals.
Completes appropriately timed re-evaluations for the patients and modifies the goals and treatment plan based on the information gained by re-evaluation.
Utilizes professional creativity and initiative in major modifications of objectives to suit patient needs as indicated under the direct supervision of Physical Therapist.
Documents daily progress of treatment plans.
Responsible for program development, refining present programs and ongoing program evaluation.
Maintains clinic areas, equipment and supplies in a clean and organized manner to promote quality treatment in a safe and functionally appropriate environment.
Assists PT supervisor to ensure all employees work in a safe, clean, infection- free environment and promotes these practices among all employees.
Work Schedule:
Monday-Friday, 7:
30am-4:
00pm; various shifts for inpatient units, other tours will be based on the needs of the service.
Compressed/Flexible:
Not availableTelework:
Not AvailableVirtual:
This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #:
623-55405-AFinancial Disclosure Report:
Not requiredHelpRequirementsConditions of Employment You must be a U.
S.
Citizen to apply for this job.
All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment.
Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA.
Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959.
Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
You may be required to serve a probationary period.
Subject to background/security investigation.
Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process.
Must pass pre-employment physical examination.
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
Participation in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See Additional Information below for details.
QualificationsApplicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.
Basic Requirements United States Citizenship:
Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy.
English Language Proficiency:
Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs) must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with 38 U.
S.
C.
, Section 7403(f).
Licensure:
Current, full, active and unrestricted license as a Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) in a State, Territory, or Commonwealth (i.
e.
Puerto Rico) of the United States, or District of Columbia.
Education Requirements:
Individuals must meet at least one of the requirements below:
Associate Degree from an accredited community college, junior college, college or university in a Physical Therapy Assistant education program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education;ORGraduate of a foreign Physical Therapy Assistant degree programs that meet the educational requirement and have successfully passed the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for Physical Therapy Assistants (PTAs)ORGraduate of military Physical Therapy Assistant programs that meet the educational requirement and have successfully passed the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for Physical Therapy Assistants (PTAs).
May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria).
Grade Determinations:
In addition to the basic requirements for employment, the following criteria must also be met when determining the grade of candidates.
GS-8 Grade Requirements:
This is considered the journey level for PTAs.
At this level PTAs collaborate with the primary Physical Therapist then draw upon a broad base of practical knowledge and a well-developed treatment skill set in order to reach pre-determined patient goals by independently modifying techniques within the established plan of care.
Experience:
One (1) year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade of GS-07.
Candidates must also demonstrate the following knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs):
Ability to independently implement treatment plan using knowledge of techniques related to the patient's disability and needs.
Ability to independently provide varied and multifaceted physical therapy interventions based on the established care plan (e.
g.
, therapeutic exercise, balance, body mechanics, flexibility, strength, gait training, neuromotor development, physical agents, functional training, etc.
).
Knowledge of physical therapy data collection and assessment techniques in order to perform specific interventions and to monitor and capture progress of the patient/client.
Ability to instruct patient on varied interventions to provide materials to enhance compliance with home programs.
Ability to modify treatment techniques based on the learning needs and perceptions of the patient.
Ability to identify critical changes (e.
g.
vital signs, pain, mobility and alertness) in patient conditions to determine their medical and functional status.
Ability to work with PTs and other interdisciplinary healthcare team members to evaluate patient information for planning, modifying and coordinating treatment programs and discharge planning.
Preferred
Experience:
Experience in an inpatient and outpatient clinical settingReferences:
VA Handbook 5005/139, Part II, Appendix G23The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-08.
The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS-08.
Physical Requirements:
Physical Therapy is considered a vocation that requires medium strength according to the Department of Labor.
Medium work entails exerting 20-50 pounds of force occasionally, and 10-25 pounds of force frequently and or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for light work.
The physical demands also require standing, walking, stair climbing, squatting, bending, kneeling, reaching, gripping, sitting, and changing from one position to the other frequently throughout the day.
Sufficient manual dexterity to operate a computer is also required.
Moderate to heavy lifting is required to assist patients during treatment, during patient transfer activities and to operate equipment.
Work requires physical stamina, normal use of arms and legs, and good visual and auditory acuity.
EducationIMPORTANT:
A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.
Note:
Only education or degrees recognized by the U.
S.
Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment.
You can verify your education here:
http:
//ope.
ed.
gov/accreditation/.
If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education.
For further information, visit:
http:
//www.
ed.
gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.
html.
/>Additional information Receiving Service Credit or Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave:
Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee.
Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience.
This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave.
Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed.
This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.
VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply.
The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority.
Pursuant to VHA Directive 1193.
01, VHA health care personnel (HCP) are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 subject to such accommodations as required by law (i.
e.
, medical, religious or pregnancy).
VHA HCPs do not include remote workers who only infrequently enter VHA locations.
If selected, you will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination before your start date.
The agency will provide additional information regarding what information or documentation will be needed and how you can request a legally required accommodation from this requirement using the reasonable accommodation process.
If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement.
Read more Benefits Help A career with the U.
S.
government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package.
As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding.
Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent.
Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How You Will Be Evaluated You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC.
WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE.
Your application, resume, C.
V.
, and/or supporting documentation will be verified.
Please follow all instructions carefully.
Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.
g.
, Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.
g.
, professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social).
Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.
You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in the hiring process to verify information provided by a candidate (e.
g.
, on resume or during interview or hiring process); gain additional knowledge regarding a candidate's abilities; and assist a hiring manager with making a final selection for a position.
It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment.
Veterans and Transitioning Service Members:
Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members.
Recommended Skills Clinical Works Creativity Data Collection Education Finance Fine Motor Skills Estimated Salary: $20 to $28 per hour based on qualifications.
Montgomery VA Medical Center in Muskogee, Oklahoma.
The PTA will provide treatment that promotes the prevention, remediation, and rehabilitation of acute and chronic physical and psychosocial dysfunction.
The treatment areas will include inpatient, outpatient, and acute care as dictated by the needs of the service in Tulsa, Oklahoma or Muskogee, Oklahoma.
Learn more about this agencyHelpOverview Accepting applications Open & closing dates 07/27/2023 to 08/17/2023 Salary $51,713 - $67,231 per year Pay scale & grade GS 8 Help Location1 vacancy in the following location Muskogee, OK 1 vacancy Remote job No Telework eligible No Travel Required 25% or less - You may be expected to travel to other VA Clinics for this position.
Relocation expenses reimbursed No Appointment type Permanent - Work schedule Full-time - Service Excepted Promotion potential 8 Job family (Series) 0636 Rehabilitation Therapy Assistant Supervisory status No Security clearance Other Drug test No Position sensitivity and risk Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk Trust determination process CredentialingSuitability/Fitness Announcement number CBSU-12061924-23-CDM Control number 739728200HelpThis job is open to Internal to an agency Current federal employees of this agency.
Clarification from the agencyThis is an internal job announcement open to current, permanent employees with the Jack C.
Montgomery VA Medical Center and past, current, or upcoming VHA Health Professional Trainees (HPT).
First consideration will be given to current permanent employees with the Jack C.
Montgomery VA Medical Center.
Veterans Preference is not used on internal announcements.
All U.
S.
Citizens and employees from other federal agencies should apply to vacancy announcement 12069125.
VideosHelpDutiesThe duties of the Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) working with the Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R) Service include, but are not limited to:
Administers and monitors therapeutic interventions based on goals formulated by a Physical Therapist.
Participates in the coordination of activities within the Physical Therapy section of PM&R Service to maintain quantity and quality of work production.
Responsible for the execution of regular and highly specialized treatment of patients.
Advance patients to higher levels of activity and consults the Physical Therapist regarding special cases.
Trains patients and family/caregivers in safe operation and maintenance of home equipment Coordinates the ordering and delivery and the training in the use of assistive devices/technology in a timely, efficient and accurate manner; must be familiar with all internal and external processes related to the procurement of prosthetic equipment.
Familiar with current practices and medical research regarding effective care for those in geriatric care settings and able to implement those practices in therapy.
Demonstrate an understanding of the range of treatment and skills needed for all adult patients including geriatric patients related to physical limitations, unique psychological needs, and age associated illnesses and conditions.
Administers thermos-therapy, hydrotherapy, hot packs, electrical stimulation, TENS, diathermy, ultrasound, traction and exercises as indicated by a Physical Therapist.
Administers therapeutic exercise, teaches transfer activities, mobility exercises and gait training to a wide variety of disabilities and diagnosis, selects, adapts and/or fits assistive devices in accordance with rehabilitation goals.
Completes appropriately timed re-evaluations for the patients and modifies the goals and treatment plan based on the information gained by re-evaluation.
Utilizes professional creativity and initiative in major modifications of objectives to suit patient needs as indicated under the direct supervision of Physical Therapist.
Documents daily progress of treatment plans.
Responsible for program development, refining present programs and ongoing program evaluation.
Maintains clinic areas, equipment and supplies in a clean and organized manner to promote quality treatment in a safe and functionally appropriate environment.
Assists PT supervisor to ensure all employees work in a safe, clean, infection- free environment and promotes these practices among all employees.
Work Schedule:
Monday-Friday, 7:
30am-4:
00pm; various shifts for inpatient units, other tours will be based on the needs of the service.
Compressed/Flexible:
Not availableTelework:
Not AvailableVirtual:
This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #:
623-55405-AFinancial Disclosure Report:
Not requiredHelpRequirementsConditions of Employment You must be a U.
S.
Citizen to apply for this job.
All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment.
Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA.
Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959.
Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
You may be required to serve a probationary period.
Subject to background/security investigation.
Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process.
Must pass pre-employment physical examination.
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
Participation in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See Additional Information below for details.
QualificationsApplicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.
Basic Requirements United States Citizenship:
Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy.
English Language Proficiency:
Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs) must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with 38 U.
S.
C.
, Section 7403(f).
Licensure:
Current, full, active and unrestricted license as a Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) in a State, Territory, or Commonwealth (i.
e.
Puerto Rico) of the United States, or District of Columbia.
Education Requirements:
Individuals must meet at least one of the requirements below:
Associate Degree from an accredited community college, junior college, college or university in a Physical Therapy Assistant education program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education;ORGraduate of a foreign Physical Therapy Assistant degree programs that meet the educational requirement and have successfully passed the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for Physical Therapy Assistants (PTAs)ORGraduate of military Physical Therapy Assistant programs that meet the educational requirement and have successfully passed the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for Physical Therapy Assistants (PTAs).
May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria).
Grade Determinations:
In addition to the basic requirements for employment, the following criteria must also be met when determining the grade of candidates.
GS-8 Grade Requirements:
This is considered the journey level for PTAs.
At this level PTAs collaborate with the primary Physical Therapist then draw upon a broad base of practical knowledge and a well-developed treatment skill set in order to reach pre-determined patient goals by independently modifying techniques within the established plan of care.
Experience:
One (1) year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade of GS-07.
Candidates must also demonstrate the following knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs):
Ability to independently implement treatment plan using knowledge of techniques related to the patient's disability and needs.
Ability to independently provide varied and multifaceted physical therapy interventions based on the established care plan (e.
g.
, therapeutic exercise, balance, body mechanics, flexibility, strength, gait training, neuromotor development, physical agents, functional training, etc.
).
Knowledge of physical therapy data collection and assessment techniques in order to perform specific interventions and to monitor and capture progress of the patient/client.
Ability to instruct patient on varied interventions to provide materials to enhance compliance with home programs.
Ability to modify treatment techniques based on the learning needs and perceptions of the patient.
Ability to identify critical changes (e.
g.
vital signs, pain, mobility and alertness) in patient conditions to determine their medical and functional status.
Ability to work with PTs and other interdisciplinary healthcare team members to evaluate patient information for planning, modifying and coordinating treatment programs and discharge planning.
Preferred
Experience:
Experience in an inpatient and outpatient clinical settingReferences:
VA Handbook 5005/139, Part II, Appendix G23The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-08.
The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS-08.
Physical Requirements:
Physical Therapy is considered a vocation that requires medium strength according to the Department of Labor.
Medium work entails exerting 20-50 pounds of force occasionally, and 10-25 pounds of force frequently and or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for light work.
The physical demands also require standing, walking, stair climbing, squatting, bending, kneeling, reaching, gripping, sitting, and changing from one position to the other frequently throughout the day.
Sufficient manual dexterity to operate a computer is also required.
Moderate to heavy lifting is required to assist patients during treatment, during patient transfer activities and to operate equipment.
Work requires physical stamina, normal use of arms and legs, and good visual and auditory acuity.
EducationIMPORTANT:
A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.
Note:
Only education or degrees recognized by the U.
S.
Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment.
You can verify your education here:
http:
//ope.
ed.
gov/accreditation/.
If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education.
For further information, visit:
http:
//www.
ed.
gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.
html.
/>Additional information Receiving Service Credit or Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave:
Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee.
Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience.
This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave.
Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed.
This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.
VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply.
The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority.
Pursuant to VHA Directive 1193.
01, VHA health care personnel (HCP) are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 subject to such accommodations as required by law (i.
e.
, medical, religious or pregnancy).
VHA HCPs do not include remote workers who only infrequently enter VHA locations.
If selected, you will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination before your start date.
The agency will provide additional information regarding what information or documentation will be needed and how you can request a legally required accommodation from this requirement using the reasonable accommodation process.
If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement.
Read more Benefits Help A career with the U.
S.
government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package.
As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding.
Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent.
Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How You Will Be Evaluated You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC.
WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE.
Your application, resume, C.
V.
, and/or supporting documentation will be verified.
Please follow all instructions carefully.
Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.
g.
, Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.
g.
, professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social).
Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.
You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in the hiring process to verify information provided by a candidate (e.
g.
, on resume or during interview or hiring process); gain additional knowledge regarding a candidate's abilities; and assist a hiring manager with making a final selection for a position.
It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment.
Veterans and Transitioning Service Members:
Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members.
Recommended Skills Clinical Works Creativity Data Collection Education Finance Fine Motor Skills Estimated Salary: $20 to $28 per hour based on qualifications.
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