Onward Search Education is a specialized education staffing and talent solutions company that helps educators, therapists, and school health professionals find top jobs with the nation's top schools. We’re partnering with a school in Lake County, IL to hire a dedicated Physical Therapist for an Extended School Year (ESY) assignment.
Physical Therapists in school settings help students develop and improve mobility, strength, and functional independence so they can access their educational environment. This role directly supports students’ physical needs and enhances their participation in academic and social activities.

Position Details:

• Start Date: 6/15/26
• End Date: 7/26/26
• Schedule: Monday-Thursday 8:15am-12:15pm
• Grade Levels: PK-12
• School Year: 2025/2026 ESY

Responsibilities:

• Provide physical therapy services to students in accordance with IEP goals.
• Conduct evaluations and re-evaluations to determine students’ functional needs, mobility abilities, and necessary supports.
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans to improve motor skills, strength, balance, and mobility.
• Collaborate with teachers, families, and school staff to ensure appropriate accommodations and safe participation in school activities.
• Document student progress, maintain required records, and participate in IEP meetings.
• Provide training to staff on safe lifting, positioning, and mobility support as needed.
• Support students across multiple school environments, including classrooms, therapy spaces, and community-based settings.

Qualifications:

• Master’s or Doctoral degree in Physical Therapy.
• Active Illinois Physical Therapist license.
• Previous school-based experience preferred but not required.
• Strong understanding of pediatric motor development and school-based therapy practices.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and documentation skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.

What We Offer:

• Competitive pay and benefits package.
• Access to a wide network of schools and districts for diverse placement options.
• Streamlined hiring process to get you started quickly.
• Ongoing communication and advocacy throughout your placement.
• Personalized support from dedicated recruiting professionals.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.

Why Apply? If you’re passionate about creating positive change and supporting students’ success, this is the opportunity for you! Work alongside a dedicated team of educators and support staff, helping students reach their full potential.

Ready to join us? Apply today – we can’t wait to hear from you!

Employer Details:

• Onward Search is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to a policy of non-discrimination in an employment with regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status or any other classification protected by federal, state and local laws and ordinances. Candidates must be at least 18 years old to be considered for employment. EOE/M/F/D/V/SO.
• In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire.
• Onward Search is unable to support 1099 / Corp-to-Corp or Independent Contractor arrangements at this time. All freelancers will be paid as W2 employees.
• Onward Search offers medical, dental, vision benefits, as well as a 401k program, for all eligible full time temporary assignments.
• Onward Search is a drug-free workplace.
• Onward Search is a nationwide staffing agency and talent solutions provider specializing in creative, marketing and technology. Our clients are continuously turning to us to fill their open positions. Therefore, there is no application deadline for this position, as we are seeking candidates for this type of role across all our clients on an ongoing basis.