Neonatal Physical Therapist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the field of neonatal healthcare, the role of neonatal physical therapists has never been more critical.

As medical advancements progress, the demand for skilled professionals who can provide, enhance, and ensure the quality of our neonatal physical care grows increasingly urgent.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a neonatal physical therapist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of neonatal physical therapy,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable neonatal physical therapist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Neonatal Physical Therapist Duties and Responsibilities

Neonatal Physical Therapists are healthcare professionals who specialize in the treatment of newborns experiencing developmental difficulties or those born prematurely.

Their primary responsibility is to monitor and improve the infants’ physical development and help them reach their developmental milestones.

The daily duties and responsibilities of a neonatal physical therapist include:

• Evaluating newborns’ motor skills and identifying developmental delays or abnormalities
• Developing and implementing individualized treatment plans to promote motor skills development
• Performing therapeutic exercises and treatments to improve newborns’ strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination
• Using special equipment and techniques to facilitate therapy sessions
• Collaborating with other healthcare professionals, including pediatricians, neonatologists, and occupational therapists, to ensure comprehensive care
• Providing education and guidance to parents on how to carry out certain therapeutic activities at home
• Keeping detailed records of patients’ progress and adjusting treatment plans as needed
• Staying updated on the latest research and advancements in neonatal physical therapy

 

Neonatal Physical Therapist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a highly skilled Neonatal Physical Therapist who specializes in providing care to infants who are born prematurely, or infants who have health complications.

The role involves diagnosing, managing, and treating conditions related to the physical development of these infants.

The ideal candidate would have significant experience in neonatal care, and a deep understanding of infant physiology and neonatal rehabilitation.

 

Responsibilities

• Assessing, diagnosing, and treating conditions related to neonatal physical disorders.
• Developing comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each individual infant’s needs.
• Working closely with parents and other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive patient care.
• Providing ongoing assessments and updates on patient progress.
• Providing education and support to families regarding infant care and therapy.
• Staying up to date with the latest practices in neonatal physical therapy.
• Adhering to all healthcare regulations and standards.

 

Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in Physical Therapy.
• State licensure as a physical therapist.
• Experience in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) setting.
• Experience with neonatal physical therapy treatment techniques.
• Knowledge of neonatal physiology and development.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in maintaining records and writing reports.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and a compassionate nature.

 

Benefits

• 401(k) retirement plan
• Health insurance, including dental and vision coverage
• Generous paid time off
• Continuing education allowance
• Childcare support
• Life insurance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Neonatal Physical Therapist
• Work Environment: Hospital based, specifically within the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU)
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of Physical Therapy or NICU Department Head.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Neonatal Physical Therapist Do?

Neonatal Physical Therapists are specialized healthcare professionals who work in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) or other hospital departments, caring for newborns with various health issues.

They are trained to help infants who have musculoskeletal, neurological, or developmental challenges, or who have been born prematurely and may therefore have a variety of health complications.

They use a range of therapeutic techniques to help these infants grow and develop properly.

Their responsibilities include providing physical therapy to improve the infants’ motor skills, strength, and range of motion.

This can involve exercises, massage, and the use of specialist equipment.

Neonatal Physical Therapists work closely with a team of healthcare professionals, including pediatricians, nurses, and occupational therapists.

They provide vital input in the development of a comprehensive care plan for each infant, and they play a crucial role in monitoring the infant’s progress and adjusting treatment plans as necessary.

Additionally, they provide education and support to the infants’ families, teaching them exercises or techniques they can use at home to aid in the child’s development and recovery.

They also maintain detailed records of each infant’s treatment and progress, and communicate regularly with other members of the healthcare team to ensure the most effective care is being provided.

 

Neonatal Physical Therapist Qualifications and Skills

A qualified neonatal physical therapist must have the skills and qualifications that align with the role, including:

• Experience and understanding of the physical, motor and health needs of neonates and their families.
• Knowledge and application of therapeutic interventions and strategies suitable for neonates.
• Good communication skills to explain complex medical terms to parents and caregivers in a simple and understandable manner.
• Interpersonal skills to create a positive environment for infants and their families, fostering trust and building rapport.
• Problem-solving skills to assess, diagnose, and treat infants with various developmental and physical conditions.
• Patient and empathetic, able to provide support to parents during high-stress situations.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a team of healthcare professionals such as nurses, doctors, and occupational therapists.
• Physical strength and stamina to handle infants and small children, also capable of standing or bending for extended periods.

 

Neonatal Physical Therapist Experience Requirements

Neonatal Physical Therapists generally obtain a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from an accredited institution, completing significant clinical rotations, including those in pediatric or neonatal settings.

After graduation, these professionals often gain experience in a hospital setting, working under the supervision of a seasoned Neonatal Physical Therapist.

The first 1 to 3 years of their career often involve gaining broad clinical experience in physical therapy, with a focus on neonatal and pediatric populations.

Those with 3 to 5 years of experience in Neonatal Physical Therapy are often considered experienced professionals.

These therapists have not only honed their technical skills in the field but also have developed the necessary skills to handle the emotional and psychological aspects of dealing with newborns and their families in critical situations.

Therapists with more than 5 years of experience in this field may have acquired specialized certifications such as Pediatric Certified Specialist (PCS) or Neonatal Physical Therapy Certification.

These professionals may also have developed their leadership skills through supervisory roles and might be ready for managerial roles or leading a team in a neonatal unit.

Some positions, particularly those in specialized or intensive care units, may require advanced experience or qualifications due to the complexity and delicacy of the role.

 

Neonatal Physical Therapist Education and Training Requirements

Neonatal Physical Therapists usually require a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from an accredited physical therapy program.

The program typically includes theoretical and clinical courses in anatomy, neuroscience, and biomechanics, as well as a clinical internship to gain practical experience.

Before enrolling in a DPT program, students must have a bachelor’s degree, which often includes coursework in biology, physics, and chemistry.

Upon completion of the DPT program, candidates must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination to earn licensure.

This is a requirement in all states.

In addition to a license, a Neonatal Physical Therapist must complete a pediatric or neonatal physical therapy residency program.

These programs offer specialized training in the treatment and care of infants, including those with developmental delays and congenital conditions.

Many neonatal physical therapists also seek board certification from the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties in Pediatrics.

This requires at least 2,000 hours of clinical work in the specialty area and passing an exam.

Ongoing professional development and education are also vital in this role due to the ever-evolving nature of healthcare and therapeutic techniques.

 

Neonatal Physical Therapist Salary Expectations

A Neonatal Physical Therapist earns an average salary of $82,620 (USD) per year.

However, the salary can vary depending on the professional’s years of experience, additional certifications, geographical location, and the size and type of their employer.

 

Neonatal Physical Therapist Job Description FAQs

What qualifications are required for a Neonatal Physical Therapist?

Neonatal Physical Therapists need to have a Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) and a professional state license to practice.

It’s crucial that they complete a pediatric or neonatal specialty during their education or residency.

Certifications in Neonatal Therapy and Pediatric Physical Therapy can be beneficial.

 

What are the daily duties of a Neonatal Physical Therapist?

A Neonatal Physical Therapist works closely with newborn infants, especially those with health complications or premature birth.

Their daily duties primarily revolve around assessing the infants’ motor skills, strength, range of motion and development, creating and implementing therapy programs, coordinating with other healthcare professionals, and educating parents about physical therapy strategies and infant development.

 

What skills are essential for a Neonatal Physical Therapist?

A Neonatal Physical Therapist must have excellent interpersonal and communication skills to interact with parents and healthcare team members.

They should have a keen eye for detail to identify and assess developmental issues in infants.

They need to be empathetic, patient, and sensitive to handle the infants and their parents effectively.

Knowledge of infant development and therapeutic interventions for neonates is crucial.

 

Is it challenging to hire a Neonatal Physical Therapist?

Yes, hiring a Neonatal Physical Therapist can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the role.

It requires a specific set of skills and a thorough understanding of neonatal care, which not all physical therapists may possess.

Therefore, it’s essential to offer competitive salaries and benefits to attract qualified professionals.

 

What makes a good Neonatal Physical Therapist?

A good Neonatal Physical Therapist is highly knowledgeable about neonatal development and the specific needs of newborns.

They should be able to make accurate assessments and create effective treatment plans.

Equally important is their capacity to empathize and communicate with worried parents, providing reassurance and guidance.

Lastly, they should have the ability to work well in a team alongside other healthcare professionals.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the intricate tapestry of what it means to be a neonatal physical therapist.

Surprised?

It’s not just about providing therapy.

It’s about shaping the early life of a newborn, one therapy session at a time.

With our reliable neonatal physical therapist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your mark.

But why limit yourself?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your essential tool for creating precision-crafted job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every therapy session contributes to the larger journey of a newborn’s life.

Let’s shape these early lives. Together.

How to Become a Neonatal Physical Therapist (Complete Guide)

Life in the Danger Zone: A Day in the Life of High-Risk Professionals

Redefining Riches: Surprising High-Paying Jobs That Could Be Yours!

Tech’s Human Hurdle: Jobs That AI Can’t Overcome

Employment Gold Rush: The Hottest Jobs in High Demand