Physical Therapist (Per Diem) - Physical Therapy

Escondido, California

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Job ID: 18411
Date posted: 02/24/2026
Schedule: Per Diem
Shift: Day
Department: Physical Therapy

Job Summary:

At Rady Children’s Health – San Diego, our Physical Therapists play a vital role in helping patients achieve their highest level of function and independence. This position is responsible for independently evaluating movement abilities through standardized assessments, clinical observation, and patient/family interviews. Using these findings, the therapist develops and implements individualized, evidence-based treatment plans and home exercise programs designed to maximize functional outcomes. In addition to providing patient and family education, the therapist collaborates closely with physicians and interdisciplinary team members to ensure comprehensive, patient-centered care. Accurate documentation of clinical findings and progress is essential to support continuity of care and uphold the highest standards of practice.

To support professional growth and recognize contributions beyond direct patient care, Rady Children’s offers a Clinical Ladder program with Physical Therapist levels II and III. These roles maintain patient care as the primary responsibility while providing opportunities for additional involvement in areas such as education, research, and advocacy. Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications for advanced roles will have the opportunity to discuss eligibility with department leadership during the interview process.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Master’s degree

• BLS for Health Providers (American Heart Association)

• Valid California license in PT, or CA Physical Therapist license applicant (PTLA status) if new grad or licensed in another state

• Bachelor’s degree in lieu of Master’s degree, if graduated prior to 2000

• Ability and experience working independently, using critical thinking skills and processes to arrive at objective, strategic, results-oriented decisions within the context of patient care and department, division and organizational priorities.

• Pediatric experience

Preferred Qualifications:

• Doctorate degree (non-MD)

Physical Therapist I – The current salary range for this position is $45.75 to $62.90

Physical Therapist II – The current salary range for this position is $48.03 to $66.06

Rady Children’s Hospital is committed to compensation that is externally competitive and internally equitable. We demonstrate this commitment by conducting regular market reviews to remain competitive with organizations of similar size in the nonprofit, healthcare sector. The range listed above does not represent the full salary range for the position but is the expected hiring range for qualified candidates. Compensation decisions consider a variety of factors including experience, education, licensure, unique skillsets, organizational need, and internal equity. This posting will remain open from the “date posted” until the hiring manager has determined there is a sufficient applicant pool or until the position is filled.

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