Recreational Therapist

Recreational Therapist

Join to apply for the Recreational Therapist role at Melmark

Melmark is a nonprofit organization providing clinically sophisticated evidence-based special education, residential, vocational, and therapeutic services for children and adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders, developmental and intellectual disabilities, acquired brain injuries, medical complexities, and other neurological and genetic disorders.

The recreational therapist is responsible for the planning, organization, coordination and implementation of a comprehensive program of therapeutic and recreational activities, and for contributing to the individual plan of care for each individual diagnosed with disabilities. The role includes assessing, planning, and providing therapeutic recreation services to participants, conducting initial assessments and periodic reassessments, developing plans of care, and conducting therapeutic recreation activities.

• Full‑time schedule:
  Sunday‑Thursday or Tuesday‑Saturday
• Weekdays: 11 am‑7 pm, weekend hours flexible
• 1 weekend a month:
  Saturday and Sunday (hours flexible)
• Starting Salary: $52,500 (+), based on years of experience

• Bachelor’s degree in recreational therapy, psychology or a related field.
• Valid U.S. state driver’s license, minimum age 21; must attain approved Melmark driver status.
• Lifesaving/Lifeguarding Certification and CPR for Professional Rescue Certification required within 90 days of hire.
• Water Safety Instructor (WSI), Pesticide Applicator License, or Pool Operators License preferred.
• Certified Therapeutic Recreational Specialist (CTRS) certification required.

• Plan a comprehensive program of therapeutic activities, including a program‑wide schedule tailored to individuals with intellectual and/or physical disabilities.
• Assist in assessing leisure skills and needs of these individuals.
• Create and maintain daily/weekly/monthly activity schedules and ensure appropriate social/recreational activities planned and implemented.
• Conduct a range of daily individual and/or group therapeutic and leisure activities to promote the highest functional levels and improve active engagement.
• Physically assist in adaptive swimming courses and provide lifeguard support during the aquatics program.
• Assist with oversight of all pool operations and maintenance, including monitoring pool chemistry and temperatures.
• Provide staff training to day program and residential staff on specific goals and objectives.

• Work with a nationally known leader in quality‑driven initiatives
• Generous Paid Time Off (Vacation, Holiday, Sick)
• Melmark Sponsored Pension Plan and 403(b) with employer matching
• Health, Dental, Vision Insurance
• Flex Spending Accounts for Health and Dependent Care
• Life, AD&D, and Disability insurance
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Generous Student Loan Reimbursement
• Professional Conference and Research Opportunities
• Onsite CEUs at no cost to employees

Entry level

Full‑time

Other

Individual and Family Services