Physical Therapist (DPT)

Orthopedic Physical Therapist — Program Lead

Job Title: Orthopedic Physical Therapist — Program Lead

Industry: Medical Practice | Outpatient Physical Therapy

Work Setting: Boutique, Cash-Based Outpatient Clinic

Job City: Dubuque, Iowa

Country: United States

Work Location: On-Site

Employment Type: Full-Time | Permanent

Total Positions: 2 Openings Available

Schedule: Full-Time, 4-5 Days/Week | Occasional Evening/Weekend Community Events

Compensation:

$81,000 – $100,000 base + performance-based bonus tied to practice growth and patient retention

Relocation Assistance: Limited assistance available

About the Opportunity

Search Station is recruiting on behalf of a confidential client, a privately owned, patient-focused healthcare practice in Dubuque, Iowa seeking an experienced Orthopedic Physical Therapist to lead a growing orthopedic and regenerative rehabilitation program. This is a unique leadership opportunity for a PT who wants more than a traditional clinical role and the chance to build and shape a specialty service line from the ground up, in a cash-based practice that prioritizes patient outcomes over insurance limitations.

Requirements

• Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree
• Active Iowa PT license or eligibility to obtain
• Previous pelvic health experience a plus — mentorship provided for those newer to the specialty
• Strong orthopedic background with confidence in return-to-activity or return-to-sport rehabilitation
• Interest in regenerative therapies such as shockwave treatment — training will be provided
• Leadership mindset with interest in program development and mentorship

Scope of Work

• Develop and lead the orthopedic and regenerative rehabilitation service line
• Evaluate and treat patients using evidence-based orthopedic techniques, manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, and return-to-activity programming
• Help establish clinical protocols and best practices for regenerative therapies, including shockwave treatment
• Mentor support staff and collaborate with the clinical team to ensure exceptional patient outcomes
• Build relationships within the community through educational events, networking, and referral development
• Maintain accurate electronic documentation with minimal administrative burden

Benefits

• Performance-based bonus opportunities tied to practice growth and patient retention
• Paid time off and holidays
• True one-on-one patient care model — approximately 7-8 patients per day
• Flexible full-time schedule with work-life balance in mind

Good to Know

• This is a leadership opportunity to shape and grow a specialized service line from the ground up — not a traditional staff PT role
• Low patient volume (7/8 day) with 60-minute one-on-one sessions - rare in outpatient PT
• Two positions available — bring a colleague or grow separately in a collaborative environment
• Collaborative, supportive team culture that values professional development and mentorship
• Training provided for regenerative therapies including shockwave treatment for candidates newer to the technique
• Dubuque, IA is a charming river city with a low cost of living, vibrant arts scene, and strong community culture