Dream Job: This is a job in Washington's wine and fruit country. Could it be yours?
The Job: Work as a pediatric physical therapist at the nonprofit Children's Village in Yakima, Wash., which partners with more than 30 local agencies to provide a spectrum of services to children with various special healthcare needs, including physical therapy. Pediatric PT services are provided
at Children's Village for young patients ranging from newborns to 19-year-olds.
Why this is a dream job: Children's Village works to foster an environment that encourages its staff to grow and excel as they aspire to their professional goals. Pediatric PTs work alongside others who share a passion for compassionate health care, world-class service, and a desire to contribute to a special community of children.
Types of patients and injuries you would work with: In a typical day, you will help six to eight children with special needs, and their families. Emphasis is placed on enhancing a child's ability in a variety of settings by training and working with the family. You will participate in a range of diagnostic clinics, individual and group therapy settings, pool
therapy, and home-based therapy. Depending on the child's needs, you may provide therapy at Children's Village in a clinical
setting, in the child's home or childcare facility, in the therapy pool, or other appropriate settings.
Word on the street - what your colleague has to say about this employer: "At Children's Village, we receive satisfaction from working with children with special needs. The Village offers a unique work environment; we are able to play a significant role in each child's development. We work in a place where children
triumph and enjoy successes every day," says Laura Reed, pediatric PT at Children's Village.
What you could do
for fun if you lived here: With nearly 300 days of sun each year and four seasons, Yakima is an
outdoor enthusiast's dream. Nestled along its namesake river, Yakima
serves as a gateway to the Cascade Mountains to the west and bountiful fruit and wine country to the east.
It has a central location - near Seattle and Portland - and offers easy access to the mountains, ocean, rain forest, and Columbia River. Known for its orchards and agricultural roots, Yakima presents an excellent
opportunity for fruit-picking or
simple unwinding. For wine
enthusiasts, Yakima boasts a number of award-winning wineries.
What you would be paid: Salary ranges from $56,000 to $69,000, commensurate with
experience. Benefits include
healthcare coverage, 401(k) benefits package, sick leave, vacation time, and holiday leave.
Interested? Contact:
Jackie Ray, Therapy Director, Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital. Tel: (509) 574-3311 or
E-mail jackie.ray@yvmh.org.
