Recreational Therapy Aide for Veterans

New Mexico Department of Health; Truth or Consequences (NM); On-site; USD 21,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

New Mexico Department of Health seeks a Recreational Therapist Aide to assist in delivering recreation-based treatment programs for people with disabilities, injuries or illnesses. This role is at the NM Veterans' Home in Truth or Consequences, NM.

You will assist with meaningful therapeutic activities, transport residents, prepare supplies, and supervise groups to promote well-being. High School Diploma required; safety-sensitive position with background checks.

Qualifications

• Enthusiastic and motivated to engage residents in recreational and social activities.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to interact effectively with veterans, families, volunteers, and staff.
• Demonstrates respect and understanding of veterans' backgrounds, military culture, and individual life experiences.
• Dependable and team-oriented, able to support recreation staff in planning and delivering programs.
• Creative and resourceful in assisting with group activities, special events, and seasonal celebrations.
• Flexible and adaptable to changing schedules, resident interests, and program needs.
• Organized and attentive to detail when setting up, tracking participation, and maintaining program supplies.
• Comfortable leading small group programs such as games, crafts, music, or discussion groups.
• Positive attitude with a focus on creating a welcoming and enjoyable environment for residents.

Responsibilities

• Assists in providing meaningful therapeutic, medically approved recreation activities to residents to improve and maintain physical, social, and emotional well-being.
• Escorts or transports residents to daily activities conducted onsite, on facility grounds, or in the community.
• Prepares, sanitizes, distributes, and retrieves supplies and equipment used during recreational programs.
• Monitors residents during activities to ensure safety, engagement, and dignity.
• Leads or co-leads small group programs and supports events and celebrations.
• Maintains attendance records, equipment inventories, and program documentation.
• Ensures confidentiality and observes HIPAA training requirements.

Skills

Strong interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Enthusiastic and motivated

Team-oriented

Creative and resourceful

Flexible and adaptable

Organized and detail-oriented

Comfortable leading small groups

Positive and welcoming demeanor

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Job description

New Mexico Department of Health seeks a Recreational Therapist Aide to assist in delivering recreation-based treatment programs for people with disabilities, injuries or illnesses. This role is at the NM Veterans' Home in Truth or Consequences, NM.

You will assist with meaningful therapeutic activities, transport residents, prepare supplies, and supervise groups to promote well-being. High School Diploma required; safety-sensitive position with background checks.