DSHS DDA Physical Therapist Specialist

State of Washington$82K — $110K *
Selah, WA 98942In-Person
Healthcare
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Current Washington State license to practice as a Physical Therapist or eligibility to obtain one by hire date.
  • 2.5 years of experience in physical therapy following graduation from an accredited program.
  • Completion of training in a specialty PT service or additional 2 years of general PT education/experience.
  • Strong observational and interpersonal skills to work compassionately with adults with developmental disabilities.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with medical and support staff.

Responsibilities

  • Coordinate specialty service programs and conduct assessments for custom wheelchair needs.
  • Plan and direct physical therapy for residents with developmental disabilities.
  • Collaborate with medical staff to synchronize physical therapy with treatment programs.
  • Manage procurement and distribution of therapy materials and equipment.
  • Interview clients to explain the benefits of treatment and assess physical therapy needs.
  • Conduct resident assessments as required.
  • Provide training and consultation to staff regarding resident-specific issues.

Benefits

  • Full-time, permanent position with stable work hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.).
  • Opportunity to make a significant impact in the lives of adults with intellectual disabilities.
  • Collaborative work environment with a focus on community and social justice.
  • Supportive agency commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
  • Possibility of multiple vacancies being filled from this announcement.
Full Job Description
Salary: $82,440.00 - $110,952.00 Annually
Location : Yakima County - Selah, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number:
Department: Dept. of Social and Health Services
Division: DDA
Opening Date: 07/13/2026
Closing Date: 8/2/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Description
Description

If the thought of creating meaningful experiences and opportunities for growth through fun activities sounds like your dream job - we want to hear from you! The is looking for a Physical Therapist Specialist who is ready to make a difference in the lives of adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities.In this role, you'll create and lead therapeutic and recreational activities that help residents build confidence, develop new skills, and enjoy daily life at Yakima Valley School. This is a hands-on role for someone who's thoughtful, observant, and comfortable supporting others with care, consistency, and respect. If you're creative, dependable, and enjoy working as part of a team, we'd love to hear from you.

Work hours are 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday.

Some of what you'll do
  • Coordinate specialty service programs and provide assessment and treatment in areas such as custom wheelchair acquisition, provide in-service programs and community training programs in clinical specialty areas.
  • Plan and direct physical therapy for residents who have developmental disabilities.
  • Confers with medical and other staff members to coordinate physical therapy programs with related treatment programs and patient treatment.
  • Requisitions and distributes therapy materials and equipment.
  • Interview incoming clients to explain the value of treatment activities, write progress assessments, and perform screening to determine physical therapy needs.
  • Perform resident assessments as required.
  • Provide training and consultation to staff and providers around specific resident issues.
  • Help train and give direction to the medical staff and Adult Training Specialists as necessary.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Who should apply
  • Professionals with a current license to practice as a Physical Therapist (or ability to obtain a WA license by hire date)
  • 2½ years of work experience in the practice of physical therapy after graduation from an accredited Physical Therapy Program; and
  • Completion of applicable training or education in a specialty PT service or an additional 2 years of general PT education/experience)

The Department of Social and Health Services' (DSHS) vision that people find human services to shape their own lives requires that we come together with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work. It is crucial to our agency's vision that you bring a fairness, access, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to support all Washingtonians, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with physical, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security.

Questions? Email Recruiter, Chris Pulley at or call 360-725-5848; reference 05654. To learn more about DSHS, go to
Who we areWatch this video to learn more about how our staff makes a difference.
#WeAreHiring #patience #WithYou

Supplemental Information

Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the job. This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle

Updated 01-07-2026
01

Do you have a current Washington State license to practice as a Physical Therapist?
  • Yes
  • No

02

If not currently licensed, are you eligible to obtain a license in Washington to practice physical therapy?
  • Yes
  • No

03

Please describe your training and education in Physical Therapy.
04

Where did you first see this job advertised?
Required Question

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