Durham Bone and Joint Specialists (DBJS) is seeking a motivated, early-career or experienced Physiotherapist to join our paid, one-year Orthopaedic Advanced Practice Provider Fellowship Program.

DBJS is committed to delivering accessible, high-quality orthopaedic care for patients with acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions. Established in 2019, our multidisciplinary team includes nine orthopaedic surgeons and 11 Advanced Practice Providers, including Physiotherapists and Physician Assistants, who work collaboratively to meet the growing orthopaedic needs of patients across Durham Region.

This structured fellowship is designed for a Physiotherapist who is interested in advancing their orthopaedic knowledge, clinical assessment skills, procedural exposure, and confidence in a high-volume specialist setting. The Fellow will receive practical, supervised training and education to prepare for an Advanced Practice Provider role within orthopaedics.

The fellowship opportunity

Over the 12-month program, the Orthopaedic Fellow will work closely with DBJS orthopaedic surgeons and Advanced Practice Providers while developing the skills required to assess, triage, investigate, and manage patients presenting with routine and urgent orthopaedic concerns.

The program combines direct patient-care experience, mentorship, clinical teaching, independent study, and structured coursework. Fellows will progressively build competence in orthopaedic assessment, imaging interpretation, treatment planning, patient education, and conservative management under the guidance of the DBJS team.

This is a paid fellowship position, with an annual salary of $80,000 to $90,000, based on experience and qualifications. The successful candidate will receive three weeks of paid vacation during the fellowship year.

Following successful completion of the fellowship, there may be an opportunity to join DBJS in a permanent, full-time Advanced Practice Provider position. Permanent employment would include a significant increase in base compensation, with eligibility for a performance-based bonus structure.

Responsibilities and learning objectives The Orthopaedic Fellow will progressively participate in the delivery of orthopaedic care,



with appropriate supervision and mentorship. Responsibilities may include:

- Conducting focused histories and comprehensive musculoskeletal examinations.
- Assisting with the assessment and triage of patients with acute and chronic orthopaedic conditions.
- Reviewing and interpreting diagnostic imaging, including X-rays, MRI, CT, and ultrasound, in collaboration with the supervising surgeon and APP team.
- Developing differential diagnoses and treatment plans in consultation with orthopaedic surgeons.
- Providing patient education regarding diagnoses, treatment options, rehabilitation, activity modification, and follow-up care.
- Supporting the delivery of conservative orthopaedic treatments, which may include bracing, splinting, casting, and injection-related care, as training and scope permit.
- Communicating clearly with patients, family members, surgeons, primary-care providers, allied health professionals, and clinic staff.
- Completing accurate, timely, and professional clinical documentation.
- Participating in structured teaching sessions, case reviews, clinical rounds, and assigned orthopaedic coursework.
- Developing the knowledge and skills required to transition into an Advanced Practice Provider role in orthopaedics.

Schedule and compensation

- Full-time, one-year fellowship position.
- Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- An additional approximately 1–4 hours per week is required for course work, readings, case preparation, and structured educational activities.
- Annual compensation of $80,000–$90,000.
- Three weeks of paid vacation.
- Clinic-funded professional development and certification opportunities during the program, where applicable.
- Potential transition to a permanent Advanced Practice Provider position upon successful completion of the fellowship,



including increased compensation and potential performance-based bonus opportunities.

Professional development and certification DBJS is committed to investing in the professional growth of Fellows. The successful candidate will receive structured mentorship and education intended to support advancement into an orthopaedic Advanced Practice Provider role.

Depending on progress, competency, regulatory requirements, and clinic needs, the Fellowship may include opportunities to pursue clinic-funded education and certifications related to orthopaedic practice, including Orthopaedic Injection certification and Advanced Practice Provider certification. These opportunities are designed to enhance advanced clinical assessment and procedural skills within an orthopaedic setting.

Qualifications

- Registration and good standing with the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario is required.
- A strong interest in orthopaedics, musculoskeletal medicine, and advanced clinical practice.
- Previous experience in orthopaedics, sports medicine, emergency medicine, rehabilitation, or a related musculoskeletal setting is considered an asset.
- Excellent clinical reasoning, assessment, and communication skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary healthcare team.
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced clinical workplace.
- Sound judgment, professionalism, discretion, and the ability to manage confidential patient information appropriately.
- A demonstrated commitment to patient-centred care, continuous learning, and professional development.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to clearly document clinical findings and explain treatment plans to patients.

Application question Are you currently registered and in good standing with the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario?

DBJS is an equal-opportunity employer. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Pay: $80,000.00-$90,000.00 per year

Benefits

- On-site parking

Work Location: In person

📌 Physiotherapist — Orthopaedic Fellowship Program (Ajax)
🏢 Durham Bone and Joint Specialists
📍 Ajax