School-Based Physical Therapist (PT)
Company : HealthPRO Heritage
Location : Merced, CA, 95341
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 31 December 2025
Overview
HealthPRO Pediatrics is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment where every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential. We are seeking a dedicated Physical Therapist to join us in a Medical Therapy Unit.
New graduates are encouraged to apply! We provide mentorship and ongoing support to help you grow your skills and confidence in a collaborative, child-centered environment.
- Licensed Physical Therapist – Merced, CA
- Full-Time, W2, with generous PTO accrual for school breaks etc
- Annual Salary from $94,000-$97,000, based on experience
Why Choose HealthPro Pediatrics?
- Meaningful Impact: Play a pivotal role in the lives of children and their families by helping them overcome challenges and achieve milestones in speech, physical, occupational, or ABA therapy.
- Growth Opportunities: Enjoy continuous learning and development opportunities tailored to support your professional growth.
- Collaborative Culture: Thrive in a supportive environment where teamwork, respect, and open communication are at the heart of everything we do.
- Commitment to Excellence: Join a team recognized for clinical expertise and commitment to delivering high-quality care and outcomes.
- Competitive Benefits Package: Enjoy competitive compensation along with a comprehensive benefits package designed with YOU in mind!
Join Us in Making a Difference
At HealthPRO Pediatrics, A division of HealthPro Heritage, we are more than just a team—we are a family dedicated to empowering children, supporting families, and fostering growth. As a leader in pediatric therapy, we provide a purpose-driven environment where your skills and compassion truly make a difference.
Responsibilities
- Patient Assessment: Evaluate patients' physical conditions, including mobility, strength, and flexibility.
- Treatment and Education: Provide therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and other treatments to enhance functionality and alleviate pain. Educate patients and families on exercises, posture, and body mechanics to aid recovery, prevent injuries, and offer guidance on home routines and lifestyle changes.
- Documentation: Maintain accurate records of evaluations, progress, and treatment plans, ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards.
- Collaboration: Work with healthcare providers to ensure effective patient care and participate in multidisciplinary team meetings as needed.
Qualifications
- Education: Degree in Physical Therapy from an accredited institution.
- Licensure: Valid state licensure as a Physical Therapist, or license eligible
- Skills: Strong clinical assessment and diagnostic skills. Proficient in developing and implementing effective treatment plans. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a patient-centered approach.
- Physical Requirements: Ability to lift and assist patients as needed. Must be able to stand for extended periods and perform physical tasks related to therapy.
HealthPRO Heritage and its subsidiaries provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, HealthPRO Heritage and its subsidiaries comply with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
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Frequently asked questions
In schools, physical therapists focus on enhancing mobility and functional skills critical for learning and participation. They tailor interventions to children’s unique needs, addressing physical challenges while collaborating with educators to integrate therapy goals seamlessly into the school day.
To work as a school-based PT in Merced, you need a degree from an accredited physical therapy program, a valid California state license, and strong clinical skills in pediatric therapy. Additional experience or certification in pediatric physical therapy can boost your competitiveness.
Daily tasks include assessing students’ physical abilities, designing individualized therapy plans, conducting treatments, and educating families. You'll also document progress meticulously and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive care within the school environment.
While a California PT license is mandatory, certifications like Pediatric Clinical Specialist (PCS) are valued locally. These credentials demonstrate specialized skills in pediatric care, aligning with Merced school districts’ focus on effective, evidence-based therapy for children.
Merced has a growing demand for pediatric therapy professionals due to increased school health initiatives. However, competition remains moderate, favoring candidates with pediatric experience, strong communication skills, and licensure readiness to meet the community’s needs.
Salaries typically range from $94,000 to $97,000 annually, reflecting experience levels. This competitive pay, combined with benefits like paid time off for school breaks, positions HealthPRO Heritage as an attractive employer in the Merced pediatric therapy market.
Absolutely, HealthPRO Heritage emphasizes growth by providing dedicated mentorship and ongoing support for new graduates. This nurturing environment helps build confidence and clinical expertise, especially in pediatric therapy within school medical units.
The company fosters a team-oriented culture where therapists work closely with educators, families, and healthcare professionals. Regular multidisciplinary meetings and open communication channels ensure holistic care and meaningful impact on students’ physical development.
School-based PTs specialize in adapting therapeutic interventions within educational settings, emphasizing functional improvements that support academic participation. Unlike clinic-based roles, they navigate school schedules and collaborate directly with teachers and families daily.
Therapists often assist children with mobility, requiring lifting and physical support. Standing for extended periods and performing manual therapies are common, so maintaining proper body mechanics and self-care is essential to sustain a long, healthy career in this setting.