As the school year comes to an end and summer approaches, newly graduated therapists may be contemplating working as a traveler. Can new grads actually land travel therapy jobs? The answer is “yes,” but also “it depends.” There are multiple factors involved, such as which type of therapist you are, what setting you are looking for, and how flexible you are in terms of location. While there is technically no minimum experience requirement to travel as a therapist, you still need to be approved by each facility you will work at as a traveler.
New Grad Physical Therapist Travel Jobs
Physical therapists are currently in short supply and high demand. This creates a competitive environment where facilities tend to become more flexible with their experience requirements. Traditionally, it has been easiest for new grad PTs to find opportunities in skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) and, while that is still the case, there are also more opportunities in schools, outpatient, and even acute care. Another consideration is where the job is located. Generally speaking, the more desirable the location, the easier it is for the facility to fill an opening, so the less likely they may be to settle for a candidate without independent clinical experience. Frequently the reverse is also true, so the more willing you are to expand where you’re willing to take a travel assignment, the more likely they are to consider a new grad PT.
New Grad Occupational Therapist Travel Jobs
Occupational therapists are always in demand, but, at least at the time of this writing, not to the same degree as PTs. That said, there are still some new grad OT travel jobs, particularly in the SNF setting. Schools are also more apt to consider a new grad OT candidate. The same principle with location also applies to OT, places that have a harder time attracting workers are going to be more flexible with experience requirements, and will likely be your best bet to secure an OT travel job as a new grad.
New Grad Speech-Language Pathologist Travel Jobs
Speech-Language Pathologists have a clinical fellowship year (CFY), during which they may also want to travel. Although requirements can vary, many facilities will not consider CFY candidates for travel assignments Traditionally, schools have been a great starting point for new grad SLPs. But the current demand for SLP candidates is high, so it’s possible you might be considered for opportunities in other settings, particularly if you are flexible on location.
Travel Considerations for New Grads
So, new grad therapist travel jobs are definitely possible, giving the constraints outlined above. But before you pack your bags, let’s explore whether traveling as a new grad is the right choice for you.
Are you prepared for the fast-paced workload of a travel therapist? Regardless of whether you’re a new grad or an experienced clinician, you’ll be expected to handle a full caseload and be productive with minimal orientation or training. Additionally, travel assignments naturally involve relocating, which entails planning, moving, and securing housing. So, you need to be prepared to perform well on the job, while managing certain logistical challenges.
On the flip side, taking a travel job as a new grad can bring significant rewards that outweigh the risks. Firstly, travel jobs tend to offer generous compensation for new grads. Regardless of your experience level, travel assignments are typically paid based on a set rate, meaning that new grads can enjoy competitive pay. This financial boost can be highly beneficial for those just starting their careers, especially if you have student loans to pay.
Furthermore, travel assignments accelerate your clinical experiences. Unlike clinicians who work at the same place for years and gain experience with a limited range of patients, as a traveler, you’ll have the opportunity to work in various facilities, collaborate with different coworkers, treat diverse patients, and learn about various systems—all within a relatively short period. If you’re uncertain about which setting you want to specialize in, traveling can also provide valuable exposure to different environments.
Let’s not forget the added perks of traveling, such as exploring different parts of the country and creating unforgettable memories along the way.
Interested in seeing if you might qualify for a travel therapist job as a new grad? Find out by searching our rehab therapy jobs or just apply directly to get connected with a recruiter.