Physical Therapist Assistant

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Physical Therapist Assistant.

Location: Gulf Park
730 East Beach Boulevard
Long Beach, Mississippi, 39560
United States

Division: Speech and Hearing Sciences

Position Type: Staff

Employment Status: Full Time

Grant Funded: Yes

Salary Range: 25.48 - 34.45

Pay Grade: N11

Posting Close Date: June 19, 2026

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

The pediatric physical therapist assistant provides pediatric services to students enrolled at The Children's Center across classroom, home, and community settings under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist. This position implements therapeutic interventions designed to support students' functional mobility and participation in educational activities. The physical therapist assistant provides parent and caregiver training and education to promote carryover of therapy goals across environments. This position collaborates with and provides consultation support to the transdisciplinary team to ensure coordinated and comprehensive service delivery.

1. Implements and executes an established treatment plan for children enrolled at The Children's Center under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist across classroom, home, and community settings.
2. Communicates with families, staff members, referring physicians, and other outside entities regarding child progress and goals.
3. Maintains accurate documentation of services in accordance with The Children's Center policies and Mississippi State Board of Physical Therapy regulations.
4. Assists in planning and preparation of classroom activities and provides input regarding treatment options with other team members.
5. Provides outreach training and technical assistance to child care providers, school district personnel, rehabilitation service providers, and the medical community as needed.
6. Performs other duties as assigned.

Associate's degree from an accredited college or university in a Physical Therapist Assistant education program. Must have three (3) years of pediatric experience.?Must hold current MS Board of Physical Therapy license. Must hold or be willing to acquire CPR Certification.

• Ability to physically transition up and down from the floor, lift and transfer children (20-40 pounds) safely to assist with daily skills (i.e., toileting, feeding, dressing, walking, communicating) and target individual objectives.
• Ability to push/pull, climb, and move equipment for therapy purposes.
• Ability to effectively share information and respond to questions from supervisors, staff members, caregivers, and the general public.
• Knowledge of all Microsoft?tools including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint and have the ability to use various tools for organization and general operational needs of the program.

Three (3) or more years of experience in pediatric interdisciplinary occupational therapy assistant. Must hold current Mississippi Board of Occupational Therapy license. Must hold or be willing to acquire Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification.

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We're developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life.

The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.