Physical Therapist I (2026-2027)

• Duration: 10 Months

ABOUT OUR DISTRICT:

The Syracuse City School District is On the Rise! We are undergoing a new phase of innovation and transformation with the goal of ensuring that all students graduate high school with the skills needed to be ready for college and career. For Syracuse, all means all. The School Board and Syracuse community have charged the Superintendent with improving student achievement, and she is seeking a dedicated and diverse team of educators to partner with her in moving the district toward its goals.

The Syracuse City School District represents 35 schools and programs, including 6 high schools, 6 middle schools, 6 K-8 schools, 13 elementary schools, and 4 alternative education programs, serving approximately 19,000 students Pre-K–12. Of these students, 82.3% qualify for free or reduced-price lunch, 20.1% are served by the Office of Special Education, and 83% are students of color.

WORKING HOURS: This position will work 10 months 35 hours per week. This position is considered full-time and is non-exempt.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

The work involves responsibility for evaluating, planning, and providing physical therapy treatment in accordance with written prescription or referral from a physician who provides medical direction. The sites of the work varies from health care facilities to health related facilities to certified home health care agencies to school districts. An employee in this class is responsible to a Physical Therapist II or, if there is no senior position, to an administrative supervisor responsible for the operation of the physical therapy program. Supervision may be exercised over the work of subordinate certified and uncertified personnel assigned to the service. Certain assignments made to employees in this class will require reasonable access to transportation to meet field work requirements made in the ordinary course of business in a timely and efficient manner. Does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

• Evaluates the degree of function and disability of patients or residents.
• Performs physical therapy procedures upon the written order or referral of a licensed physician.
• Participates with other personnel in the formulation of patients' total care plan.
• Develops or assists in the development of physical therapy policies and procedures.
• Confers periodically wit a supervising Physical Therapist and physicians regarding all facets of patient care and related activities;
• Records on patients' charts all physical therapy evaluations, re-evaluations, progress notes, consultation and discharge summaries and maintains other program records as needed. May participate in the selection of personnel in the physical therapy service, assigns their duties and provides supervision.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

• Good knowledge of the principles, techniques and practices of physical therapy.
• Good knowledge of the operation and maintenance of apparatus and equipment used in physical therapy.
• Good knowledge of pathological conditions, socio-economic and health factors affecting a patient's disability.
• Working knowledge of community resources applicable to physical therapy.
• Ability to plan and supervise the work of others (when required to supervise).
• Ability to work with patience and understanding.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Licensed* and currently registered by the New York State Education Department as a Physical Therapist.

*Limited permit - although not eligible for permanent appointment, candidates in possession of limited permits issued by the New York State Education Department may be employed on a temporary basis under conditions specified by the New York State Education Department.

SALARY/COMPENSATION:

• Compensation is based on qualifications and experience in accordance with the Unit 1 contractual agreement and ranges from $59,499-$102,037 for the 2026-2027 school year.
• Physical Therapist I may also be eligible for additional compensation for time worked during the summer.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• The successful candidate will be required to pass a fingerprint-based background check, at the cost of $107.50 to the candidate.
• All applicants must be on the current Onondaga County Civil Service list for this title.
  • This position is listed under Continuous Recruitment .
• Pediatric/early intervention experience and training preferred.

The Onondaga County Civil Service job description for this position can be viewed by clicking here.