Posted: 03-Feb-26
Location: Boulder, Colorado
Type: Full-time
Salary: $87,000.00 - $104,000.00
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The Athletics' Physical Therapist will provide comprehensive rehabilitation services for all student-athletes, with an emphasis on post-surgical and long-term injury management across all varsity sport programs. This position will serve as the department’s primary provider for complex rehabilitation needs, ensuring continuity of care, integration of evidence-based treatment strategies, and collaboration with athletic trainers, physicians, and performance staff. The Athletics' Physical Therapist will support the overall mission of the Sports Medicine Department by promoting health, safety, and performance optimization for all student-athletes.
The position reports to the Associate Athletic Director for Sports Medicine.
This position is responsible for promoting the philosophy and objectives of the intercollegiate athletics program. This shall include adhering to the principles of the Athletic Department’s Mission Statement, Core Values, Policies and Procedures, as well as the rules and regulations of the University, the Big 12 Conference and the NCAA.
Who We Are
As one of 34 U.S. public research institutions belonging to the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU)—and the only member in the Rocky Mountain region—our goal at CU Boulder is to directly affect Colorado communities through collaborative research, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Our faculty, staff, and students work with the broader community to establish outstanding connections that have lasting outcomes—both across Colorado and around the world.
What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be
Student-Athlete Care & Daily Sports Medicine Operations
Rehabilitation Leadership
- Serve as the department’s lead provider for all post-surgical and long-term rehabilitation cases across all sport programs.
- Monitor patient progress, adjust treatment programs, and maintain consistent communication with supervising physicians.
- Collaborate daily with athletic trainers to support integrated care models, co-treatment plans, and coordinated rehabilitation progression.
Injury Management & Daily Care
- Provide direct patient care in the Champions Center Athletic Training Room and rotate through Dal Ward and the Events Center Athletic Training Rooms to maintain accessibility for all sports.
- Oversee continuity of care for student-athletes with long-term injuries, ensuring seamless flow across training room sessions, physician appointments, and strength and conditioning programs.
Collaboration With Medical Staff
- Coordinate care with team physicians, orthopedic specialists, and external providers to ensure timely and appropriate medical management.
- Communicate rehabilitation updates, participation status, and treatment recommendations to athletic trainers and coaching staff.
- Attend interdisciplinary case meetings to review injury status, progressions, and return-to-participation decisions.
Health, Safety & Education
- Support and deliver health and safety education to coaches, strength and conditioning staff, and student-athletes on injury prevention, recovery strategies, and safe programming.
- Assist in ensuring NCAA-mandated coverage standards are met for off-season and non-traditional training periods in collaboration with the athletic training staff.
Clinical Operations & Program Administration
Program Coordination & Development
- Assist in the development, implementation, and evaluation of departmental rehabilitation standards, and evidence-based care pathways.
- Participate in interdisciplinary planning meetings with athletic training, performance, nutrition, sports psychology, and medical staff.
- Contribute to quality improvement initiatives, including equipment evaluation, program development, and clinical best-practice updates.
- Support yearly pre-participation physical exam processes as assigned.
Clinical Education & Staff Development
- Provide ongoing clinical education and mentorship to athletic trainers, interns, and support staff on rehabilitation science, manual therapy techniques, and emerging treatment trends.
- Deliver case reviews, in-service training, and research updates to promote a high-standard, evidence-driven care environment.
Compliance & Documentation
- Maintain accurate, timely, and fully compliant medical documentation consistent with departmental, University, Big XII, NCAA, and legal standards.
- Support departmental adherence to health and safety policies and uphold the core principles of the Athletics Department.
Student Intern Program
- Assist in the supervision, teaching, and evaluation of students participating in the sports medicine intern or shadowing programs.
- Provide mentorship regarding rehabilitation techniques, patient communication, and professional practice.
Departmental Responsibilities (Continual)
- Maintain thorough knowledge of NCAA, Big XII Conference, University, and departmental rules and regulations. Violations may result in disciplinary action, including termination.
- Uphold and promote the principles stated in the Athletic Department’s Mission Statement, ensuring that departmental values are reflected in daily interactions and clinical care.
- Support a collaborative, inclusive, and student-athlete-centered health care environment.
What We Can Offer
Starting salary range is $ 87,000.00 - $107,000.00. Relocation assistance is available within department guidelines.
- Athletic Event Tickets: Per Athletic Department Policy and NCAA regulations
- Nike Elite Employee Benefit: Per Nike Elite Policy
- Supplemental camp pay: per Athletic Department Summer Camp Policy
Benefits
At the University of Colorado Boulder, we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County’s largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program.
What We Require
- Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree or equivalent.
- Current Colorado Physical Therapy license (or eligibility by start date).
- Demonstrated experience in orthopedic and post-surgical rehabilitation.
- Ability to work within a fast-paced, interdisciplinary sports medicine setting.
What You Will Need
- In-depth knowledge of athletic training/physical therapy services.
- Ability to manage and teach staff.
What We Would Like You to Have
- Experience working with collegiate, professional, or elite-level athletes.
- Advanced credentials such as SCS, OCS, CSCS, or manual therapy certification.
- Familiarity with return-to-sport protocols and high-performance environments.
Special Instructions
To apply, please submit the following materials:
- A current resume.
- A cover letter that specifically tells us how your background and experience align with the requirements, qualifications, and responsibilities of the position.
We may request references at a later time.
Please apply 3/2/25 for consideration
Essential Services
