Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the healthcare sector, the role of pediatric rehabilitation specialists is more critical than ever.

As medical advancements progress, the demand for skilled professionals who can restore, improve and maintain the health of our children continues to rise.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a pediatric rehabilitation specialist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker attempting to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the intricacies of pediatric rehabilitation,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we are revealing a customizable pediatric rehabilitation specialist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialists are healthcare professionals who focus on improving the overall health and wellness of children with a wide range of health conditions and illnesses.

They utilize their specialized training to assess, diagnose, and treat various physical, cognitive, and emotional impairments in children.

The duties and responsibilities of a Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialist include:

• Evaluating and diagnosing the physical, cognitive, and developmental needs of children
• Designing personalized rehabilitation programs to improve mobility, strength, independence, and overall quality of life
• Using therapeutic exercises, assistive devices, and other treatment modalities to enhance a child’s physical abilities
• Working closely with a team of healthcare professionals, including physicians, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and psychologists, to provide a comprehensive treatment plan
• Monitoring a child’s progress and modifying treatment plans as necessary
• Providing education and counseling to children and their families about treatment plans and home exercises
• Documenting all treatment plans, progress notes, and discharge summaries in a timely and accurate manner
• Advocating for the needs and rights of children within the healthcare system and the community

 

Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialist to join our team.

The candidate will be responsible for providing therapy and rehabilitation services to children who have developmental delays, disabilities, or who are recovering from injuries.

Key tasks will include creating and implementing individualized treatment plans, monitoring progress, and adjusting treatments as necessary.

Our ideal candidate is compassionate, patient, and has a solid understanding of child development and pediatric disorders.

They should also be proficient in using various types of therapy equipment and have excellent communication skills to effectively work with children, families, and other healthcare professionals.

 

Responsibilities

• Evaluating children’s developmental levels and diagnosing physical and cognitive deficits
• Creating comprehensive treatment plans that focus on milestones
• Using specialized therapeutic techniques to improve physical abilities
• Monitoring patient’s progress and adjusting treatment plans as needed
• Documenting all procedures and findings in detail
• Communicating with families to keep them informed of their child’s progress
• Collaborating with a team of healthcare professionals
• Ensuring all therapy equipment is clean and maintained

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialist
• Completion of a Doctoral degree in Physical Therapy or similar
• Valid state license to practice physical therapy
• Knowledge of pediatric disorders and therapy treatments
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Compassionate and patient-centered approach
• Ability to work with a diverse patient population

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialist
• Work Environment: Hospital, Rehabilitation Center or private clinic. This role may also require travel to patient homes for therapy sessions.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of Rehabilitation Services or Clinic Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $65,000 minimum to $95,000 maximum
• 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 Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialist Do?

Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialists work primarily in hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation centers, providing services to children and adolescents with disabilities or injuries.

Their main role is to evaluate, diagnose, and treat children with developmental, congenital, and traumatic disorders that affect their motor skills, cognitive abilities, or physical fitness.

They work closely with a team of healthcare professionals, including physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and psychologists to develop a comprehensive and personalized rehabilitation program for each child.

The specialist’s role involves implementing therapeutic interventions, monitoring progress, adjusting treatments as necessary, and providing education and support to the child’s family.

Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialists often work with conditions such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy, and injuries resulting from accidents or illnesses.

They are responsible for helping children improve their functionality and quality of life, and to achieve their maximum potential in their daily activities.

Their work also includes advocating for the needs of the children and their families, offering guidance for home adaptations, and coordinating with schools to ensure the child’s needs are met in an educational setting.

 

Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialist Qualifications and Skills

A Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialist should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Thorough understanding of child development, physical and cognitive disabilities, and the ability to provide effective treatment plans.
• Knowledge of pediatric diseases and conditions and their impact on physical and cognitive development.
• Exceptional communication skills to effectively connect with children and their families, explaining the treatment process and updating them on the child’s progress.
• Ability to perform physical tasks such as lifting and moving children as necessary during the treatment process.
• Empathy and sensitivity when dealing with children who have developmental or physical disabilities.
• Strong problem-solving skills to devise and implement innovative treatment strategies tailored to each child’s unique needs.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to work cooperatively with a multidisciplinary team including doctors, nurses, therapists, and social workers.
• Ability to provide emotional support and counseling to families, helping them cope with the challenges associated with their child’s condition.
• Detail-oriented to maintain accurate and updated patient records, tracking their progress and modifying treatment plans as necessary.
• Patient and persistent, capable of encouraging children to cooperate and participate in rehabilitation activities even when they may find them challenging.

 

Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialist Experience Requirements

Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialists typically have an extensive educational and training background.

They begin by obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in a related field such as biology, kinesiology, psychology, or health sciences.

This is followed by a Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) program, which usually takes three years to complete.

Clinical internships and hands-on training in pediatric rehabilitation are critical components of the DPT program.

These experiences provide students with the opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge in a practical setting, under the guidance of experienced therapists.

Following graduation, individuals must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination to become licensed practitioners.

They are then eligible to start their practice as a Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialist.

However, many choose to further specialize in pediatric rehabilitation by completing a post-graduate residency or fellowship program.

Entry-level Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialists typically have at least 1 to 2 years of experience gained from their clinical internships and residency programs.

They may also gain experience in various settings such as hospitals, private practices, rehabilitation clinics, or schools.

Professionals with more than 3 years of experience may have developed a more profound understanding of child development and pediatric diseases.

They may also have honed their skills in therapeutic techniques specific to this demographic.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may be well-suited for leadership roles, such as supervising a team of therapists or managing a pediatric rehabilitation center.

They may also have experience in research, contributing to the development and improvement of pediatric rehabilitation practices.

 

Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialist Education and Training Requirements

A Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialist usually needs to have a minimum of a Master’s Degree in Physical Therapy or Occupational Therapy.

Some also choose to earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree.

To be admitted into these graduate programs, an individual must first complete a Bachelor’s Degree, often in a related field such as Biology, Kinesiology or Health Sciences.

The graduate programs typically include coursework in anatomy, neuroscience, and physiology, coupled with clinical internships that provide hands-on experience in the pediatric rehabilitation field.

After earning their degree, potential Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialists are required to pass a national examination to become licensed to practice.

Furthermore, certain states and employers may require additional certifications.

This often involves a specific number of hours of clinical work and an examination by an accredited board such as the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties or the American Occupational Therapy Association.

Continuing education is important in this role to keep up with the latest treatment methods and research.

This can be done through seminars, workshops, or additional courses.

Some Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialists choose to further specialize in specific conditions such as cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury, or developmental disorders, which may require additional training and certification.

In addition to these educational and licensing requirements, a Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialist should have strong communication skills, patience, and a genuine passion for helping children and their families.

 

Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialist Salary Expectations

A Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialist earns an average salary of $80,000 (USD) per year.

However, the salary can significantly vary depending on the years of experience, level of specialization, geographical location, and the type of healthcare institution.

 

Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialist need?

A Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialist requires strong communication and empathy to interact effectively with young patients and their families.

They must have a deep understanding of child development and be skilled in therapies for a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.

A keen eye for detail, patience, and problem-solving abilities are also crucial to devise and implement individualized treatment plans.

 

Do Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialists need a degree?

Yes, Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialists typically need a Doctoral degree in Physical Therapy (DPT).

They also need to pass a state licensing examination to practice.

Many Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialists also complete a residency or fellowship in pediatric therapy after obtaining their DPT degree to gain specialist knowledge and experience.

 

What should you look for in a Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialist resume?

When reviewing a Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialist’s resume, check for a Doctoral degree in Physical Therapy and a valid state license.

Previous experience working with children, particularly those with physical disabilities or developmental issues, is a significant advantage.

Furthermore, look for special training or certifications in pediatric rehabilitation.

Evidence of ongoing professional development and learning can also indicate a dedicated and passionate practitioner.

 

What qualities make a good Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialist?

A good Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialist is patient, compassionate, and has a deep understanding of children’s unique needs and abilities.

They must have excellent interpersonal skills to build trust with their young patients and effectively communicate with their families.

A commitment to continuous learning and staying updated with the latest research and developments in pediatric rehabilitation is also important.

 

What are the daily duties of a Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialist?

On a typical day, a Pediatric Rehabilitation Specialist may conduct evaluations of new patients, design and implement treatment plans, and monitor patients’ progress.

They may provide hands-on therapy, guide children through exercises, or use assistive devices to improve mobility.

They also spend time documenting treatment and progress notes, coordinating with other healthcare providers, and educating families about their child’s condition and care.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you a glimpse into the extraordinary world of a pediatric rehabilitation specialist.

And here’s a surprise.

It’s not just about providing therapy.

It’s about helping children reclaim their life, one step at a time.

With our ready-to-use pediatric rehabilitation specialist job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to take the next leap.

But why limit yourself there?

Go deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next move towards crafting precision-focused listings or refining your resume to the next level.

Remember:

Every step in pediatric rehabilitation is a part of a larger journey.

Let’s help children reclaim their lives. Together.

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