Student Physical Therapist (SPT)
Student Physical Therapist (SPT)
Portland, Oregon, United States | Onsite | Full-Time
A Student Physical Therapist (SPT) works under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist to support patient rehabilitation and mobility. The role offers real, hands-on clinical experience across a range of settings — hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, outpatient clinics, home health, and more. If you're enrolled in an accredited PT program and looking to build your clinical skills in a structured, supportive environment, this is that opportunity.
What you'll do
Assist the supervising PT with patient evaluations and treatment sessions.Observe and participate in patient assessments under appropriate supervision.Help patients work through therapeutic exercises — stretching, strengthening, balance, mobility — with clear instruction and encouragement.Support patients with transfers, ambulation, positioning, and assistive device use.Monitor patient tolerance and response to treatment; flag any concerns to the supervising therapist promptly.Implement individualized treatment plans as directed by the supervising PT.Educate patients on prescribed exercises and safe mobility techniques under supervision.Keep the treatment environment clean, organized, and safe.Assist with accurate, timely documentation per facility policy and clinical supervision requirements.Follow infection-control, patient-safety, and facility protocols consistently.Communicate with the supervising PT, nursing staff, patients, and the broader care team.Maintain patient confidentiality and professional boundaries at all times.
About you
Required:Currently enrolled in an accredited Physical Therapy program.Completion of required clinical education or coursework, as applicable.Able to work under the direct supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist.Strong communication, teamwork, and interpersonal skills.Working knowledge of anatomy, physiology, therapeutic exercise, and patient mobility.Committed to patient safety, professionalism, and confidentiality.
Nice to have:Previous clinical experience in physical therapy or rehabilitation.Experience with geriatric or medically complex patients.Background in skilled nursing or long-term care settings.Familiarity with electronic medical records (EMR).CPR/BLS certification.
Typical work settings include hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, outpatient physical therapy clinics, long-term care facilities, and home health environments.