Physical Therapist (Orthopedic Clinical Specialist)

Quick Facts

• Full-time Physical Therapist role focused on Orthopedic Clinical Specialist care.
• Work schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00am–4:30pm. Telework: Not available.
• Location: Reporting and training in St. James, MO until the Rolla, MO facility begins seeing patients in early 2027.

Description

Provide orthopedic assessment and treatment for outpatients receiving provider referrals and patient self-referrals. Make autonomous clinical decisions in a Direct Access environment by performing and interpreting specialized evaluative procedures and tests. Develop, coordinate, and implement highly specialized treatment programs, including advanced manual therapy for acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.

Responsibilities

• Assess and treat outpatient orthopedic cases.
• Perform and interpret specialized orthopedic tests and procedures.
• Develop and implement specialized treatment programs.
• Use appropriate screening and evaluation techniques to direct patient care.
• Maintain timely data input using care plans, initial assessments, and/or specialty protocols.
• Provide clinical education via in-services and training as assigned.
• Prepare timely reports and written documentation (initial exams, progress notes, discharge summaries).
• Coordinate with interdisciplinary staff and guide multi-disciplinary team work.

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship.
• Proficiency in written and spoken English.
• Full, current, unrestricted physical therapy license in a U.S. state/territory/commonwealth or DC.
• Meet education/experience requirements: BS + 5 years; or MS + 2 years; or Doctorate in Physical Therapy.
• One year of progressively complex experience equivalent to GS-12 level.
• GS-13 qualification via at least one: 2,000 hours orthopedic specialty clinical practice (within past 2–5 years) OR ABPTS board certification OR fellowship OR additional advanced degree.
• Demonstrate required KSAs: advanced specialized interventions, consulting/subject-matter expertise, teaching/mentoring, team guidance, and specialized procedures to evaluate treatment outcomes.
• Complete VA onboarding/pre-employment requirements and pass background/security investigation.

Benefits

A career with the U.S. government includes a comprehensive benefits package. Eligibility depends on the type of position and schedule.