Physical Therapist Assistant – National Traveler (Journey by Upstream) 

Nationwide - Competitive hourly pay + housing stipend & bonuses - Adventure + Stability 

Take Your PTA Career on the Road — with the Security of Upstream Rehabilitation 

Tired of choosing between travel freedom and career stability? Now you don’t have to. 

Join Journey by Upstream, our national travel physical therapy program designed for adventurous clinicians who want to explore new locations without sacrificing benefits, consistency, or career growth. 

With over 1,200 outpatient clinics across 28 states, and 26+ respected regional brands like BenchMark, Results, and Drayer, Upstream offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to see the country, grow your skills, and build your career — all with one trusted employer. 

Why PTAs Choose Journey by Upstream 

Exceptional total compensation package: 

• Competitive hourly pay + monthly non-taxed housing stipend & travel reimbursement 

• Tiered assignment bonuses and productivity-based incentives 

• Student loan repayment opportunities 

• Paid Time Off, holidays, and paid relocation days between assignments 

• Comprehensive benefits: medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with match, life and disability insurance 

• Structured onboarding, mentorship, and continuing education 

Advantages You Won’t Find with a Travel Agency 

• Guaranteed full-time work – no risk of cancellations or lost hours 

• Continuous insurance coverage between assignments, even during PTO 

• One EMR and standardized systems across all Upstream clinics – no need to re-learn documentation each time 

• Flexible assignment lengths: typically 13 weeks, with 6- or 12-month options available 

• Career mobility – transition into a permanent location when you’re ready or keep exploring indefinitely 

What You’ll Do 

• Execute personalized, evidence-based care plans 

• Deliver high-quality, outcomes-driven therapy 

• Collaborate with local clinical teams and leaders across our brands 

• Build meaningful connections in new communities 

• Continue to learn and grow in a supportive, values-driven culture 

What You’ll Need 

• Graduate of an accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program 

• Active or pending Physical Therapist Assistant license in applicable state(s) 

Your Next Adventure Starts Here 

Combine your passion for outpatient orthopedics with your love for travel and new experiences. As part of the Upstream Rehabilitation network, the nation’s largest dedicated outpatient rehab provider, you’ll enjoy the freedom of travel and the security of a full-time employer. 

Join thousands of clinicians who are redefining what it means to love where you work. Apply today to start your Journey. 

Upstream Rehabilitation is the largest dedicated outpatient rehabilitation provider nationwide. We proudly serve patients in over 1200 clinics from coast to coast, and we operate as 26+ brand partners within the Upstream family including Results, Benchmark, Drayer, and more.   As the leader in pure-play outpatient physical therapy, being a part of the Upstream family offers something for every clinician!  

Follow @Lifeatupstream on Instagram, and check out our LinkedIn company page to learn more about what it’s like to be part of the #upstreamfamily.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN EVEN MORE ABOUT UPSTREAM

Upstream Rehabilitation is an Equal Opportunity Employer that strives to provide an inclusive work environment where our differences are celebrated for the value they bring to our communities, our patients and our teammates.  Upstream Rehabilitation does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, gender (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or other status protected under applicable law.

ABOUT VEG

In 2014, VEG was born with a mission to help people and their pets when they need it most. This meant challenging the status quo and fixing everything that was wrong with the ER experience. Since then, we’ve expanded rapidly, with hospitals nationwide open 24/7, 365 days a year, and created a better emergency experience—not only for people and their pets, but also for everyone who works here—our VEGgies!

At VEG we find a way to say yes to the career you want in veterinary emergency medicine. This means transforming how ER works, from our open-concept hospitals, where you can handle emergency cases of every kind (even exotics!) to our immersive, customer-focused experience, which helps us give people and their pets the care they deserve.

This also means saying yes to creating the best experience possible for our VEGgies. Yes to working in an environment where you can find your place and feel valued for the amazing work you do. Yes to having unparalleled opportunities for learning and mentorship so you can grow where you want to go in your career. And yes to making an impact here in ways you never thought possible.

VEG is a 2025 and 2026 certified Great Place to Work®.

THE JOB

At VEG, we don’t just hire assistants—we grow future emergency rockstars. As an Emergency Veterinary Assistant, you’ll be in the heart of the action from day one, supporting your team, comforting pet parents, and learning the ropes in real time. You’ll be there for everything—the triage, the treatments, and the tail wags. You’re embarking on a path where careers start, grow, and thrive. Whether you’re on your way to becoming a credentialed technician or exploring where your passion can take you, we’ll say yes to your growth every step of the way.

WHAT YOU’LL DO*

• Be the first warm welcome and a steady support, triaging incoming patients and helping guide them toward care
• Assist with treatments, nursing care, and diagnostics, from bloodwork and imaging to catheter placement and oxygen support
• Work alongside our credentialed veterinary technicians and veterinarians to set up and monitor anesthesia and sedation cases
• Set up and manage IV fluids, blood transfusions, and medication administration
• Assist during every moment of care: outpatient or inpatient, exam room to treatment area
• Join patient rounds and stay close to the clinical picture to ensure continuity of care
• Learn how to perform CPR and become a RECOVER Certified Rescuer (training provided!)
• Grow into more advanced responsibilities, such as anesthesia support, ultrasound, and catheterization through guided training pathways

*As permitted by state law

WHAT YOU NEED

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Enrolled in an AVMA-accredited veterinary technology program a plus
• 1+ years in a veterinary assistant role (emergency or specialty experience is a bonus!)
• Basic computer skills and an understanding of practice management software and electronic medical record keeping
• Excellent communicator when collaborating with pet parents and your team
• Fine motor skills for handling patients and medical equipment
• Ability to stand for prolonged hours, kneel, and work on the floor as well as ability to lift up to 25 kg on own and able to support up to 40 kg with assistance
• Must be willing to work in a noisy environment with strong or unpleasant odors
• Availability to work nights, weekends, and holidays on a rotating or as needed basis based on hospital demands
• Ability to work well in a fast-paced environment with people from all backgrounds and different personality types

WHO YOU ARE

• Empathetic, instinctively taking a people-centric approach, whether supporting your colleagues or making an effort to understand different perspectives
• Have a sense of humility; acknowledging mistakes, sharing credit with others, and lifting up your team’s’ accomplishments
• Feel a strong sense of ownership over your work, taking responsibility for outcomes and staying committed to achieving long-term, impactful results 
• Curious by nature; you ask insightful questions and continuously seek out opportunities to learn and grow your skills and knowledge

HOW WE INVEST IN YOU

• Competitive compensation, including base and 401K match
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits that start on day one, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, QPR training, and access to free therapy or counseling
• Depending on your role, you may be eligible for equity after one year of full time, active employment with VEG, so you can share in our growth and success
• A BIG focus on learning and growth, from VEG-created clinical and leadership programs to unlimited ER CE + travel stipend (no really!). Full-time credentialed VEGgies receive a $2,500/year travel stipend. Full-time uncredentialed VEGgies receive a $1,000/year travel stipend.
• Clinical student loan repayment so you don’t need to worry about your student debt
• Paid parental leave; up to 10 weeks at 100% of regular salary and inclusive fertility and family-building care for all types of families
• Flexible work schedules to support your life outside of work
• Generous employee referral program, so our awesome people can bring in more awesome people
• And the little (big) things, like comfy scrubs, cool VEG swag, and food in the fridge for when you’re hungry

DEI

At VEG, diversity is not just a word—it's a strength that fuels innovation and kindness. Our mission is “Helping people and their pets when they need it most.” And we do that better when our VEGgies (employees) feel valued, respected, and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. That's why we're devoted to creating an environment that reflects the diverse communities we serve—where different perspectives are not only welcomed but celebrated.

We are focused on providing equitable opportunities for growth, promoting inclusive decision-making, and ensuring that everyone's perspective is considered. Saying yes to VEG means helping us build a culture where your unique experiences and background contribute to a shared vision: being the world’s veterinary emergency company.

ABOUT VEG

In 2014, VEG was born with a mission to help people and their pets when they need it most. This meant challenging the status quo and fixing everything that was wrong with the ER experience. Since then, we’ve expanded rapidly, with hospitals nationwide open 24/7, 365 days a year, and created a better emergency experience—not only for people and their pets, but also for everyone who works here—our VEGgies!

At VEG we find a way to say yes to the career you want in veterinary emergency medicine. This means transforming how ER works, from our open-concept hospitals, where you can handle emergency cases of every kind (even exotics!) to our immersive, customer-focused experience, which helps us give people and their pets the care they deserve.

This also means saying yes to creating the greatest experience possible for our VEGgies. Yes to working in an environment where you can find your place and feel valued for the amazing work you do. Yes to having unparalleled opportunities for learning and mentorship so you can grow where you want to go in your career. And yes to making an impact here in ways you never thought possible.

VEG is a 2025 and 2026 certified Great Place to Work®.

THE JOB

At VEG, we don’t just hire assistants—we grow future emergency rockstars. As a per diem Emergency Veterinary Assistant, you’ll be in the heart of the action from day one, supporting your team, comforting pet parents, and learning the ropes in real time. You’ll be there for everything—the triage, the treatments, and the tail wags. You’re embarking on a path where careers start, grow, and thrive. Whether you’re on your way to becoming a credentialed technician or exploring where your passion can take you, we’ll say yes to your growth every step of the way.

WHAT YOU’LL DO*

• Be the first warm welcome and a steady support, triaging incoming patients and helping guide them toward care
• Assist with treatments, nursing care, and diagnostics, from bloodwork and imaging to catheter placement and oxygen support
• Work alongside our credentialed veterinary technicians and veterinarians to set up and monitor anesthesia and sedation cases
• Set up and manage IV fluids, blood transfusions, and medication administration
• Assist during every moment of care: outpatient or inpatient, exam room to treatment area.
• Join patient rounds and stay close to the clinical picture to ensure continuity of care.
• Learn how to perform CPR and become a RECOVER Certified Rescuer (training provided!)
• Grow into more advanced responsibilities, such as anesthesia support, ultrasound, and catheterization through guided training pathways

*As permitted by state law

WHAT YOU NEED

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Enrolled in an AVMA-accredited veterinary technology program a plus
• 1+ years in a veterinary assistant role (emergency or specialty experience is a bonus!)
• Basic computer skills and an understanding of practice management software and electronic medical record keeping
• Excellent communicator when collaborating with pet parents and your team
• Fine motor skills for handling patients and medical equipment
• Ability to stand for prolonged hours, kneel, and work on the floor as well as ability to lift up to 25 kg on own and able to support up to 40 kg with assistance
• Must be willing to work in a noisy environment with strong or unpleasant odors.
• Availability to work nights, weekends, and holidays on a rotating or as needed basis based on hospital needs
• Work well in a fast-paced environment with people from all backgrounds and different personality types

WHO YOU ARE

• Empathetic, instinctively taking a people-centric approach, whether supporting your colleagues or making an effort to understand different perspectives
• Have a sense of humility; acknowledging mistakes, sharing credit with others, and lifting up your team’s’ accomplishments
• Feel a strong sense of ownership over your work, taking responsibility for outcomes and staying committed to achieving long-term, impactful results 
• Curious by nature; you ask insightful questions and continuously seek out opportunities to learn and grow your skills and knowledge

HOW WE INVEST IN YOU

• Competitive compensation
• Flexible work schedules to support your life outside of work
• Generous employee referral program, so our awesome people can bring in more awesome people
• And the little (big) things, like comfy scrubs, cool VEG swag, food in the fridge for when you’re hungry

DEI

At VEG, diversity is not just a word—it's a strength that fuels innovation and kindness. Our mission is “Helping people and their pets when they need it most.” And we do that better when our VEGgies (employees) feel valued, respected, and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. That's why we're devoted to creating an environment that reflects the diverse communities we serve—where different perspectives are not only welcomed but celebrated.

We are focused on providing equitable opportunities for growth, promoting inclusive decision-making, and ensuring that everyone's perspective is considered. Saying yes to VEG means helping us build a culture where your unique experiences and background contribute to a shared vision: being the world’s veterinary emergency company.

ABOUT VEG

In 2014, VEG was born with a mission to help people and their pets when they need it most. This meant challenging the status quo and fixing everything that was wrong with the ER experience. Since then, we’ve expanded rapidly, with hospitals nationwide open 24/7, 365 days a year, and created a better emergency experience—not only for people and their pets, but also for everyone who works here—our VEGgies!

At VEG we find a way to say yes to the career you want in veterinary emergency medicine. This means transforming how ER works, from our open-concept hospitals, where you can handle emergency cases of every kind (even exotics!) to our immersive, customer-focused experience, which helps us give people and their pets the care they deserve.

This also means saying yes to creating the greatest experience possible for our VEGgies. Yes to working in an environment where you can find your place and feel valued for the amazing work you do. Yes to having unparalleled opportunities for learning and mentorship so you can grow where you want to go in your career. And yes to making an impact here in ways you never thought possible.

VEG is a 2025 and 2026 certified Great Place to Work®.

THE JOB

At VEG, we don’t just hire assistants—we grow future emergency rockstars. As a per diem Emergency Veterinary Assistant, you’ll be in the heart of the action from day one, supporting your team, comforting pet parents, and learning the ropes in real time. You’ll be there for everything—the triage, the treatments, and the tail wags. You’re embarking on a path where careers start, grow, and thrive. Whether you’re on your way to becoming a credentialed technician or exploring where your passion can take you, we’ll say yes to your growth every step of the way.

WHAT YOU’LL DO*

• Be the first warm welcome and a steady support, triaging incoming patients and helping guide them toward care
• Assist with treatments, nursing care, and diagnostics, from bloodwork and imaging to catheter placement and oxygen support
• Work alongside our credentialed veterinary technicians and veterinarians to set up and monitor anesthesia and sedation cases
• Set up and manage IV fluids, blood transfusions, and medication administration
• Assist during every moment of care: outpatient or inpatient, exam room to treatment area.
• Join patient rounds and stay close to the clinical picture to ensure continuity of care.
• Learn how to perform CPR and become a RECOVER Certified Rescuer (training provided!)
• Grow into more advanced responsibilities, such as anesthesia support, ultrasound, and catheterization through guided training pathways

*As permitted by state law

WHAT YOU NEED

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Enrolled in an AVMA-accredited veterinary technology program a plus
• 1+ years in a veterinary assistant role (emergency or specialty experience is a bonus!)
• Basic computer skills and an understanding of practice management software and electronic medical record keeping
• Excellent communicator when collaborating with pet parents and your team
• Fine motor skills for handling patients and medical equipment
• Ability to stand for prolonged hours, kneel, and work on the floor as well as ability to lift up to 25 kg on own and able to support up to 40 kg with assistance
• Must be willing to work in a noisy environment with strong or unpleasant odors.
• Availability to work nights, weekends, and holidays on a rotating or as needed basis based on hospital needs
• Work well in a fast-paced environment with people from all backgrounds and different personality types

WHO YOU ARE

• Empathetic, instinctively taking a people-centric approach, whether supporting your colleagues or making an effort to understand different perspectives
• Have a sense of humility; acknowledging mistakes, sharing credit with others, and lifting up your team’s’ accomplishments
• Feel a strong sense of ownership over your work, taking responsibility for outcomes and staying committed to achieving long-term, impactful results 
• Curious by nature; you ask insightful questions and continuously seek out opportunities to learn and grow your skills and knowledge

HOW WE INVEST IN YOU

• Competitive compensation
• Flexible work schedules to support your life outside of work
• Generous employee referral program, so our awesome people can bring in more awesome people
• And the little (big) things, like comfy scrubs, cool VEG swag, food in the fridge for when you’re hungry

DEI

At VEG, diversity is not just a word—it's a strength that fuels innovation and kindness. Our mission is “Helping people and their pets when they need it most.” And we do that better when our VEGgies (employees) feel valued, respected, and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. That's why we're devoted to creating an environment that reflects the diverse communities we serve—where different perspectives are not only welcomed but celebrated.

We are focused on providing equitable opportunities for growth, promoting inclusive decision-making, and ensuring that everyone's perspective is considered. Saying yes to VEG means helping us build a culture where your unique experiences and background contribute to a shared vision: being the world’s veterinary emergency company.

*Please Note: The official title for this role will be Assistant Studio Manager*

Location: Washington, D.C.  | Reports to: Studio Manager | Full Time

Hourly Rate: $24.75 

The Assistant Studio Manager is a key leadership role focused on supporting the day-to-day operations of the Studio and ensuring a consistently exceptional experience for Studs’s customers. This role serves as the primary partner to the Studio Manager and is expected to step in fully when they are off, maintaining consistency in leadership, execution, and culture.

As part of the Studio leadership team, you’ll help drive revenue, coach team members, and uphold the standards that define our customer experience. You’ll also play an important role in shaping team culture — modeling professionalism, accountability, and our core values. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, customer-facing environment and is ready to lead by example while growing alongside a high-performing team.

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Excellence & Revenue

• Leads day-to-day Studio operations in the Studio Manager’s absence, ensuring smooth execution across all functions
• Manages inventory, supply ordering, and operational task completion with consistency and attention to detail
• Tracks daily business performance and supports execution of sales strategies to drive revenue and hit targets
• Partners with the Studio Manager to identify and act on trends in key metrics, ensuring goals stay on track
• Upholds compliance standards, including safety protocols and piercing regulations, and escalates issues as needed

Customer Experience

• Maintains a consistent presence on the floor to guide the team and ensure an exceptional customer experience
• Actively supports resolution of customer concerns and models service recovery when needed
• Identifies experience trends and advocates for improvements that elevate the Studio environment

Leadership & Team Development

• Acts as a day-to-day leader for the team, setting a high standard for professionalism and accountability
• Provides real-time coaching and clear, actionable feedback to support individual performance
• Contributes to team development in collaboration with the Studio Manager
• Reinforces Studs’s values and fosters a culture of inclusion, collaboration, and continuous improvement

Requirements:

• 1+ year of retail management, customer-facing team leadership experience, and demonstrated track record of operational excellence
• Must be available to work a flexible schedule of five days per week (38-40 hours), including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Must maintain consistent availability
• Weekend availability (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) is required, excluding approved PTO
• Schedules may vary based on business needs, and full-time roles are expected to prioritize Studs as the primary employment commitment
• Must reliably attend all scheduled shifts and maintain consistent availability
• Will be scheduled in the Studio Manager’s absence; performs day-to-day studio operations across all functions
• Comfortable standing for extended periods (up to 8+ hours) and able to lift and move up to 20 lbs
• Comfortable handling chemicals and following all relevant health and safety protocols
• Brings strong judgment, a proactive mindset, and a bias toward ownership and follow-through
• Thrives in a feedback-rich environment and contributes to a collaborative, high-performing team culture

Benefits & Perks

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance (including $0 in-network mental health visits)
• Access to Mental Health and Work/Life Resources  including Online Therapy, Gender Affirmation Support Services, and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Voluntary Life Insurance
• Health and Commuter Tax-Advantaged Accounts
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
• Paid Time Off and Paid Safe & Sick Leave Accruals
• Paid Parental Leave
• Paid Sabbatical After 4 Years of Service
• Exclusive Employee Discounts on Piercings and Jewelry (we’ve got your friends and family covered too!)
• Access to PerkSpot and additional benefits such as pet insurance, discounted tickets, personal finance coaching, healthy rewards, and more!