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Physical Therapist (Level 1) – Multiple CONUS Locations
Multiple Locations, CONUS · Government/MilitaryPhysical Therapist (Level 1) – Multiple CONUS Locations
*Positions Contingent on Bid and Subsequent Award*
Place of Performance:
Eglin AFB, FL
Holloman AFB, NM
Kirtland AFB, NM
Laughlin AFB, TX
Luke AFB, AZ
Introduction:
Air Education and Training Command (AETC) trains aircrew for every aircraft in the U.S. Air Force inventory and prepares assigned warfighters for deployment and combat. While the latest generation of aircraft represents remarkable technological advancement, the decisive advantage of the U.S. Air Force has always been, and remains, the human in the cockpit. Aircrew are among the most versatile and lethal assets in the Air Force arsenal; however, deliberate investment in human performance has historically lagged that of aircraft and weapons systems.
Background:
To address this shortfall, AETC developed the Comprehensive Readiness for Aircrew Flying Training (CRAFT) program—an initiative focused on improving the physical, cognitive, and behavioral readiness of aircrew. CRAFT includes the development of functional training centers across the flying training enterprise designed to meet the specific demands placed on modern aviators. These facilities incorporate job-specific conditioning, cutting-edge human performance technology, and accessible prehabilitation and rehabilitation. AETC is currently in the early stages of systematically addressing these needs and seeks Contractor support to assist in program ideation, requirements development, documentation, and the implementation of initial operational capability (IOC) at multiple installations. Now in its fifth year, the CRAFT program requires both sustainment of current operational sites and the buildout of new locations, placing the program and its partners in a dual role of supporting both IOC execution and ongoing operations simultaneously.
Purpose and Overall Objective:
The purpose of the CRAFT program is to enhance the readiness of AETC aircrew through a holistic approach that addresses physical performance, cognitive capability, and emotional resilience. Building on the foundation established during the first four years of initial operational capability (IOC), the program is transitioning into full operational capability (FOC) while continuing to expand IOC efforts at new locations. Year 5 of the program will include both sustainment of current sites and implementation of services at additional installations. CRAFT aims to reduce chronic musculoskeletal injuries, improve cognitive performance, and strengthen emotional resilience across the aircrew population. Interventions include job-specific physical conditioning, stress management, mindfulness, cognitive training, and performance nutrition. These efforts are designed to increase learning speed, memory recall, problem-solving, and in-flight endurance while reducing injury rates and duties not including flying (DNIF) durations. Nutrition support may also include family-based education to reinforce healthy habits at home. To ensure success, the program follows a phased “crawl, walk, run” approach and emphasizes alignment with other Human Performance (HP) programs across the enterprise. Contractor personnel will support curriculum refinement, technology integration, facility improvements, and outcome tracking. This deliberate, scalable model ensures consistent execution as the program continues to grow throughout the AETC flying training enterprise.
Security Clearances:
All tasks will be conducted at the UNCLASSIFIED level. Contract employees must have at a minimum, a favorably adjudicated Tier 3 (T3) security investigation resulting from access to classified information briefings. Contractor personnel may begin performance while awaiting full T3 adjudication if they have initiated the T3 investigation process and have received written Government approval from the COR to perform unclassified duties. Personnel who receive unfavorable T3 adjudications shall not be employed under this contract.
Mandatory Experience:
2+ years of experience as a Physical Therapist (or Athletic Trainer if dual credentialed) in collegiate (or higher), professional, or tactical athletics; aerospace industry, test pilot/astronaut or similar man-machine high-performance environment.
Mandatory Education:
Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from a Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) accredited program.
Mandatory Certifications:
Current certification in basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), including Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Training.
Specific Duty Hours:
Normal duty hours are 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Duty hours may be flexible to meet mission requirements as pre-approved in writing by the COR. Once approved, the AETC CRAFT Director may have flexibility to modify the duty hours, up to one hour prior and one hour after if mission dictates. Permanent changes to the duty hours will be approved by the CO only.
Physical Therapist (PT) (Level 1):
The Contractor shall provide a Physical Therapist (PT) to deliver preventative and rehabilitative care, facilitate recovery, and support performance readiness for AETC aircrew. The PT shall operate with an aggressive “return-to-fly” mindset, performing evaluations, developing treatment plans, and integrating physical therapy within the broader Human Performance (HP) framework. The PT will collaborate closely with Strength & Conditioning Specialists, Massage Therapists, Domain Lead, Site Lead, and medical personnel to optimize operational capability and continuity of care.
The Contractor shall:
Provide physical therapy care in accordance with all applicable state, local, and national laws and standards. Perform patient evaluations, update treatment plans, supervise support staff, and document care in the Military Treatment Facility (MTF) or electronic medical records within 72 hours, as appropriate.
Deliver physical therapy services to assigned aircrew in HP facilities, flying squadrons, or other designated operational settings, including TDYs as required. Maintain credentialing and
privileging with the local Medical Group.
Collaborate with HP staff to develop integrated rehabilitation systems and internal processes that link strength & conditioning and therapy services for seamless care delivery.
Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings and HP planning efforts to ensure alignment and input on courseware development, training protocols, and data analysis.
Create and deliver instructional content and physical therapy-related materials for HP syllabi; provide briefings, seminars, and wellness consultations as required. Assist with curriculum development or re-design based on expert assessment of community served as requested.
Stay engaged with the aircrew community by spending at least 20% of duty hours in flying squadrons, flight rooms, or other operational environments to build rapport and understand
mission needs.
Maintain and apply current expertise in musculoskeletal injury prevention, recovery, operational fitness, and evidence-based physical therapy practices relevant to the tactical aviation
population.
Contribute to ongoing research initiatives, curriculum updates, and program evaluation through data collection, analysis, and stakeholder engagement.
Participate in and assist with planning and coordination of the annual Aircrew Human Performance Summit, distinguished visitor tours, and other major program events as required.
Ensure workspaces, therapy equipment, and treatment areas are cleaned and sanitized weekly, in accordance with DHA infection control and medical safety protocols.
Document client encounters and instruction in the CRAFT system of record within 72 hours; maintain data quality in alignment with program standards.
Complete the CRAFT Physical Domain Qualification Course upon onboarding and actively participate in quarterly domain-specific sync calls to maintain alignment across sites. After completion of the qualification course, assist in planning and presenting at this course as requested.
During PASO visits, ensure preparation for instructional observation, execute planned activities, receive feedback in real time, and incorporate recommendations into future teaching
and clinical work.
Attend CRAFT Program Office calls and leadership syncs, collaborating across roles and locations to maintain standardization and unity of effort.
May travel to other CRAFT sites or provide virtual support for sites without assigned PTs; may support aircrew during TDYs to ensure continuity of care.
Complete all required CRAFT compliance training and documentation, including CRAFT Program Familiarization, HPO Inappropriate Relationships and Harassment Training and Acknowledgment, DOD/DISA Information Systems Policy, social media Policy, and PII Training. Maintain records of training completion and credentialing for Government review upon
request.
*Positions Contingent on Bid and Subsequent Award*
Place of Performance:
Eglin AFB, FL
Holloman AFB, NM
Kirtland AFB, NM
Laughlin AFB, TX
Luke AFB, AZ
Introduction:
Air Education and Training Command (AETC) trains aircrew for every aircraft in the U.S. Air Force inventory and prepares assigned warfighters for deployment and combat. While the latest generation of aircraft represents remarkable technological advancement, the decisive advantage of the U.S. Air Force has always been, and remains, the human in the cockpit. Aircrew are among the most versatile and lethal assets in the Air Force arsenal; however, deliberate investment in human performance has historically lagged that of aircraft and weapons systems.
Background:
To address this shortfall, AETC developed the Comprehensive Readiness for Aircrew Flying Training (CRAFT) program—an initiative focused on improving the physical, cognitive, and behavioral readiness of aircrew. CRAFT includes the development of functional training centers across the flying training enterprise designed to meet the specific demands placed on modern aviators. These facilities incorporate job-specific conditioning, cutting-edge human performance technology, and accessible prehabilitation and rehabilitation. AETC is currently in the early stages of systematically addressing these needs and seeks Contractor support to assist in program ideation, requirements development, documentation, and the implementation of initial operational capability (IOC) at multiple installations. Now in its fifth year, the CRAFT program requires both sustainment of current operational sites and the buildout of new locations, placing the program and its partners in a dual role of supporting both IOC execution and ongoing operations simultaneously.
Purpose and Overall Objective:
The purpose of the CRAFT program is to enhance the readiness of AETC aircrew through a holistic approach that addresses physical performance, cognitive capability, and emotional resilience. Building on the foundation established during the first four years of initial operational capability (IOC), the program is transitioning into full operational capability (FOC) while continuing to expand IOC efforts at new locations. Year 5 of the program will include both sustainment of current sites and implementation of services at additional installations. CRAFT aims to reduce chronic musculoskeletal injuries, improve cognitive performance, and strengthen emotional resilience across the aircrew population. Interventions include job-specific physical conditioning, stress management, mindfulness, cognitive training, and performance nutrition. These efforts are designed to increase learning speed, memory recall, problem-solving, and in-flight endurance while reducing injury rates and duties not including flying (DNIF) durations. Nutrition support may also include family-based education to reinforce healthy habits at home. To ensure success, the program follows a phased “crawl, walk, run” approach and emphasizes alignment with other Human Performance (HP) programs across the enterprise. Contractor personnel will support curriculum refinement, technology integration, facility improvements, and outcome tracking. This deliberate, scalable model ensures consistent execution as the program continues to grow throughout the AETC flying training enterprise.
Security Clearances:
All tasks will be conducted at the UNCLASSIFIED level. Contract employees must have at a minimum, a favorably adjudicated Tier 3 (T3) security investigation resulting from access to classified information briefings. Contractor personnel may begin performance while awaiting full T3 adjudication if they have initiated the T3 investigation process and have received written Government approval from the COR to perform unclassified duties. Personnel who receive unfavorable T3 adjudications shall not be employed under this contract.
Mandatory Experience:
2+ years of experience as a Physical Therapist (or Athletic Trainer if dual credentialed) in collegiate (or higher), professional, or tactical athletics; aerospace industry, test pilot/astronaut or similar man-machine high-performance environment.
Mandatory Education:
Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from a Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) accredited program.
Mandatory Certifications:
Current certification in basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), including Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Training.
Specific Duty Hours:
Normal duty hours are 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Duty hours may be flexible to meet mission requirements as pre-approved in writing by the COR. Once approved, the AETC CRAFT Director may have flexibility to modify the duty hours, up to one hour prior and one hour after if mission dictates. Permanent changes to the duty hours will be approved by the CO only.
Physical Therapist (PT) (Level 1):
The Contractor shall provide a Physical Therapist (PT) to deliver preventative and rehabilitative care, facilitate recovery, and support performance readiness for AETC aircrew. The PT shall operate with an aggressive “return-to-fly” mindset, performing evaluations, developing treatment plans, and integrating physical therapy within the broader Human Performance (HP) framework. The PT will collaborate closely with Strength & Conditioning Specialists, Massage Therapists, Domain Lead, Site Lead, and medical personnel to optimize operational capability and continuity of care.
The Contractor shall:
Provide physical therapy care in accordance with all applicable state, local, and national laws and standards. Perform patient evaluations, update treatment plans, supervise support staff, and document care in the Military Treatment Facility (MTF) or electronic medical records within 72 hours, as appropriate.
Deliver physical therapy services to assigned aircrew in HP facilities, flying squadrons, or other designated operational settings, including TDYs as required. Maintain credentialing and
privileging with the local Medical Group.
Collaborate with HP staff to develop integrated rehabilitation systems and internal processes that link strength & conditioning and therapy services for seamless care delivery.
Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings and HP planning efforts to ensure alignment and input on courseware development, training protocols, and data analysis.
Create and deliver instructional content and physical therapy-related materials for HP syllabi; provide briefings, seminars, and wellness consultations as required. Assist with curriculum development or re-design based on expert assessment of community served as requested.
Stay engaged with the aircrew community by spending at least 20% of duty hours in flying squadrons, flight rooms, or other operational environments to build rapport and understand
mission needs.
Maintain and apply current expertise in musculoskeletal injury prevention, recovery, operational fitness, and evidence-based physical therapy practices relevant to the tactical aviation
population.
Contribute to ongoing research initiatives, curriculum updates, and program evaluation through data collection, analysis, and stakeholder engagement.
Participate in and assist with planning and coordination of the annual Aircrew Human Performance Summit, distinguished visitor tours, and other major program events as required.
Ensure workspaces, therapy equipment, and treatment areas are cleaned and sanitized weekly, in accordance with DHA infection control and medical safety protocols.
Document client encounters and instruction in the CRAFT system of record within 72 hours; maintain data quality in alignment with program standards.
Complete the CRAFT Physical Domain Qualification Course upon onboarding and actively participate in quarterly domain-specific sync calls to maintain alignment across sites. After completion of the qualification course, assist in planning and presenting at this course as requested.
During PASO visits, ensure preparation for instructional observation, execute planned activities, receive feedback in real time, and incorporate recommendations into future teaching
and clinical work.
Attend CRAFT Program Office calls and leadership syncs, collaborating across roles and locations to maintain standardization and unity of effort.
May travel to other CRAFT sites or provide virtual support for sites without assigned PTs; may support aircrew during TDYs to ensure continuity of care.
Complete all required CRAFT compliance training and documentation, including CRAFT Program Familiarization, HPO Inappropriate Relationships and Harassment Training and Acknowledgment, DOD/DISA Information Systems Policy, social media Policy, and PII Training. Maintain records of training completion and credentialing for Government review upon
request.