Recreation Therapist

Highdesertpace; Victorville (CA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) Savings Plan with employer matching

Generous time-off benefits

401(k) matching

Paid parental leave

Vacation & holidays

Job summary

A healthcare provider for the elderly in California is looking for a Recreational Therapist to enhance the quality of life for participants through therapeutic activities and collaborative care. The role involves assessing individual needs, developing engaging programs, and fostering a supportive environment. Relevant qualifications include a Bachelor's Degree and necessary certifications. This organization values diversity and offers comprehensive benefits including healthcare and a retirement plan, along with a culture that promotes professional growth.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Therapeutic Recreation or a related field is required.
• National Provider BLS certification required upon hire.
• CTRS designation required within 6 months of hire.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of participants' needs.
• Develop and implement individual and group recreational activities.
• Collaborate in the IDT care planning process.
• Lead participant-centered events to promote health.
• Maintain accurate records of participant progress.
• Train and supervise therapeutic aides.

Skills

Exceptional communication

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Therapeutic Recreation or related field

National Provider BLS (American Heart Association)

Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS)

Job description

Description

About High Desert PACE

High Desert PACE is a Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) dedicated to keeping older adults as healthy and independent as possible within their own communities. Through our clinical services, home visits, and social engagement programs, we empower elders to live active, fulfilling lives. At High Desert PACE, we follow the promise of: “Know me, care for me, ease my way.”

Requirements

Position Summary

The Recreational Therapist plays a vital role in our mission by providing a variety of therapeutic social, recreational, and diversional events for our participants. As a core member of the Interdisciplinary Team (IDT), you will be responsible for assessing participant needs and designing individualized plans that promote physical and mental well-being. This role is essential in fostering an inclusive, vibrant environment where our seniors feel seen, heard, and respected.

Key Responsibilities

• Participant Assessment: Conduct comprehensive individual assessments to identify the unique needs, interests, and capabilities of each participant.
• Program Development: Create and implement an appropriate variety of both individual and group recreational activities (e.g., arts and crafts, music, games, outings) aligned with participant preferences.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Actively participate in the IDT care planning process alongside nurses, social workers, and other therapists to ensure a holistic approach to participant care.
• Therapeutic Execution: Lead facility-wide, participant-centered events designed to boost morale and promote cognitive and physical health.
• Documentation: Maintain accurate, timely records of participant participation, progress, and clinical observations for your assigned group.
• Leadership: Assist with the training and supervision of assigned therapeutic aides to ensure high-quality program delivery.

Qualifications

Required:

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Therapeutic Recreation or a related field.
• Certification: National Provider BLS (American Heart Association) required upon hire.
• Licensure: Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) designation required within 6 months (180 days) of hire.

Preferred:

• Experience: 2 years of experience providing recreational therapy specifically with the elderly or frail population, preferably in a healthcare or PACE setting.
• Skills: Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.

Why Join High Desert PACE?

We offer best-in-class benefits designed to support you and your family’s physical, professional, and financial well-being, including:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement 401(k) Savings Plan with employer matching.
• Generous time-off benefits, including paid parental leave, vacations, and holidays.
• An inclusive workplace culture that values diversity and professional growth.