Job Title: Physical Therapist
Department: Medical and Performance
FLSA Status: Exempt, full-time, regular
Salary Range: 95-105k, depending on experience
Job Overview
The Physical Therapist will be primarily responsible for the rehabilitation of musculoskeletal injuries and conditions of the Players. In collaboration with the medical staff and performance team in the execution of effective return to play.
The Physical Therapist will report directly to the Director of Medical / Team Physician(s) / Chief Medical Officer (CMO) and communicate at least daily with the Athletic Trainer(s). Under the supervision of the Team CMO/Team Physician(s), the Physical Therapist will coordinate evaluations, rehabilitation, plan of care, progress notes, and discharge notes on all Players. These notes must be kept on file in the NWSL Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system.
Physical Therapist Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
- Work in collaboration with the Team Medical Staff and under the direction and supervision of the Medical Director/Team Physician(s)/Team CMO
- Perform physical therapy services for the Players in collaboration with the Head Athletic Trainer/Assistant Athletic Trainer as directed by the Team CMO/Team Physician(s).
- Understanding of and application of data-driven rehabilitation
- Monitor any changes in the players' mental, psychological, and physical health through daily interactions and discuss with/refer to appropriate Team Medical Staff as indicated.
- Comply with OSHA standards regarding blood-borne pathogens.
- Maintain and inventory Physical Therapy supplies and clinical equipment.
- Provide up-to-date physical therapy evaluation, plan of care, progress notes, and discharge notes maintained in the League’s EMR system.
- Demonstrate interpersonal skills required to work effectively with other Team Medical Staff members, Players, Coaches, other Team personnel, and League staff.
- Maintain professional liability insurance.
- Compile reports as required by the League.
- Comply with all League medical policies and protocols.
- Abide by all local, state, and federal laws and regulations specific to their profession, codes and standards of their governing bodies, and all applicable League Rules and Team policies (e.g., informed consent, medication management, etc.).
- Attend all activities/meetings/programs as required by the League.
- Perform other duties as assigned or required by the League.
- Previous experience working with elite athletes in a team sport setting, preferably soccer.
- Passion for the success of Women’s Professional Sports
- Emphasis in hands-on/manual skills treatment style
- Ability to work non-traditional hours, including scheduled home games on weekends, evenings, and holidays.
- Collaborative mindset and all-hands-on-deck attitude
Licenses or Certifications
- National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE)
- State license in the club's home state
- In good standing with the state licensure board.
- CPR certification in Basic Life Support
- Residency Trained*
- Boarded certified as a Sports Clinical Specialist (SCS)* or Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS)
- Additional recommended certifications: BOC Certified Athletic Trainer, Certified Strength and
- Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), Corrective Exercise Specialization (NASM-CES) and/or Performance Enhancement Specialization (NASM-PES)
*per NWSL Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA)
Educational Experience
- Minimum four (4) year college/university bachelor’s degree
- Master’s degree (MPT) or Doctor of Physical Therapy degree (DPT) Work experience
Minimum three (3) years experience as a physical therapist since receiving licensure.
- Minimum three (3) years experience in a sports environment caring for elite-level athletes (i.e., collegiate, professional, Olympic)
- Soccer experience is preferred.
Work experience
- Minimum three (3) years experience as a physical therapist since receiving licensure.
- Minimum three (3) years experience in a sports environment caring for elite-level athletes (i.e., collegiate, professional, Olympic)
- Soccer experience is preferred.
ABOUT US
Established in 2007, the Chicago Stars were a founding member of the former Women’s Professional Soccer and later became one of the original eight teams to form the National Women’s Soccer League in 2013. They are the longest continuously operating professional women’s soccer team in the United States. The Chicago Stars have made the playoffs in seven consecutive years, from 2015-2021, while also competing in three championship matches in as many years, including the 2019 and 2021 NWSL Championships and the 2020 Challenge Cup Championship.
At Chicago Stars FC, we believe in the power of community. Our mission extends beyond the pitch as we strive to make a positive impact in the lives of our fans, players, and local organizations. With our partners, including Wintrust, we are committed to fostering connections, promoting inclusivity, and empowering individuals through the beautiful game of soccer.
We strive to support a diverse community where everyone feels valued, inspired, and empowered.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
We are an equal opportunity employer and place a high value on diversity and inclusion at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of any protected attribute, including race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital or veteran status, pregnancy or disability, or any other basis protected under applicable law. We also make reasonable accommodations for applicants’ and employees’ religious practices and beliefs, as well as mental health or physical disability needs. If you need reasonable accommodations for any part of the employment process, please email us at
[email protected].
Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veterans
