A Physiotherapy Assistant provides direct patient care and support under the supervision of a physiotherapist within the Canadian Armed Forces and Department of National Defence. You will work in rehabilitation centres, military medical facilities, and clinics helping service members recover from injuries, illnesses, and surgeries. Your day-to-day responsibilities include assisting with patient assessments, implementing treatment plans, performing therapeutic exercises, and maintaining detailed patient records. You will interact directly with patients, physiotherapists, and other healthcare professionals as part of an integrated healthcare team.
In this role, you will perform hands-on clinical work such as applying therapeutic modalities (heat, cold, electrical stimulation), helping patients with mobility exercises, fitting and adjusting assistive devices, and monitoring patient progress. You may also prepare treatment areas, maintain equipment, educate patients on self-care techniques, and contribute to a safe and professional healthcare environment. Working as a Physiotherapy Assistant in the DND offers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the rehabilitation and return-to-duty outcomes of Canadian Armed Forces members.
Key Responsibilities
Provide physiotherapy services to clients and patients, Assess needs and develop treatment or service plans, Maintain accurate clinical and case records, Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver care
Required Skills
Clinical skills, Patient/client assessment, Empathy and communication, Record-keeping, Interdisciplinary collaboration, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To become a Physiotherapy Assistant with DND, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and completion of a recognized physiotherapy assistant or physiotherapy technician program from an accredited community college (usually a 2-year diploma). Some provinces require registration or certification through regulatory colleges or professional organizations. You should have strong knowledge of anatomy, physiology, therapeutic techniques, and patient safety protocols.
Professional development is ongoing in this career. You may pursue additional certifications in specialized areas such as sports medicine, occupational health, or advanced therapeutic techniques. DND supports continued learning through in-service training, workshops, and opportunities to attend professional conferences. Maintaining current knowledge of rehabilitation best practices and equipment is essential throughout your career.
Entry Plans
Entry to the Physiotherapy Assistant position typically occurs through federal public service staffing competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website. DND regularly recruits for these positions, and applications are assessed based on education, experience, and demonstrated competencies. You may enter through an open competition (external recruitment) or an internal priority system if you are already a federal public service employee.
Student and co-op programs may also provide pathways to permanent employment. If you are a current DND civilian employee in another role, you can apply for internal competitions or lateral moves to transition into physiotherapy support positions. The specific entry process and timing depend on organizational needs and staffing plans, so regularly checking Government of Canada Jobs and contacting local DND recruiting offices is recommended.
Part-Time Options
Physiotherapy Assistant positions are primarily full-time roles due to the continuity required in patient care and rehabilitation programs. However, part-time and flexible work arrangements may be available depending on the specific DND facility and operational needs. Some positions at larger medical establishments may offer shift flexibility, including early morning, evening, or weekend schedules to support extended clinic hours.
Remote work is not typical for this role, as direct patient care and hands-on clinical work are essential components of the position. However, some administrative or educational tasks may be completed off-site when necessary. If flexible or part-time arrangements are important to you, it is advisable to discuss options during the recruitment and hiring process, as availability varies by location and facility requirements.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
