This contract Physical Therapist opportunity is based in Ruidoso, New Mexico, a scenic mountain community known for its fresh pine air, four-season climate, and relaxed pace of life. Nestled in the Sierra Blanca mountains, Ruidoso offers access to abundant outdoor recreation, including hiking and biking trails, nearby lakes for fishing and boating, and easy access to Ski Apache for winter sports. The town is close to popular regional attractions such as White Sands National Park, and offers a mix of local shops, art galleries, and restaurants, giving it a welcoming, small-town feel with plenty to explore when you are off the clock.
You will be working with a regional education cooperative that serves multiple school districts with a mission-driven focus on supporting children and families. The environment is collaborative and student-centered, bringing together a team of therapists, educators, and support professionals to deliver high-quality related services. The cooperative structure offers variety in your day-to-day work, exposure to different campuses and age groups, and opportunities to develop specialized skills within a supportive framework.
In this role, you will provide school-based physical therapy services to students from early childhood through high school, depending on caseload needs. Your typical day may include traveling between school sites in the region, conducting evaluations, completing re-evaluations, developing treatment plans, and providing direct and consultative services as part of the IEP process. You will participate in IEP meetings, collaborate with teachers and related service providers, and communicate regularly with families and caregivers to support student progress in functional mobility, access to the school environment, and participation in educational activities.
Responsibilities include: Conducting standardized and functional PT evaluations and contributing to multidisciplinary assessments Developing and implementing individualized treatment plans and therapy goals aligned with educational needs Providing direct therapy services in individual and small group formats within school settings Offering consultative support and training to teachers and staff on positioning, mobility, and safe student handling Recommending and helping implement adaptive equipment, orthotics, and mobility devices as appropriate Maintaining timely and accurate documentation in accordance with state and school requirements Participating in IEP meetings, progress reviews, and child find or eligibility activities as assigned
Caseloads and specific age groups may vary across the cooperative’s service area, offering you the chance to work with a diverse range of students and needs. Schedules are aligned with the academic calendar, and the position typically follows a school-day schedule, providing more predictable hours compared to many clinical settings.
This assignment is an excellent fit for a Physical Therapist who enjoys meaningful, student-focused work, values interprofessional collaboration, and appreciates the lifestyle that comes with living and working in a picturesque mountain community. Ruidoso’s combination of outdoor adventure, peaceful surroundings, and strong sense of community makes it an appealing location for professionals who want both a rewarding career and an enjoyable quality of life.