Recreational Therapist

Melmark Overview

Certified Therapeutic Recreational Specialist (CTRS) certification required.

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. Assesses, plans care for and provides therapeutic recreation services to participants. Conducts initial assessments and periodic reassessments, develops plan of care for participants and conducts therapeutic recreation activities.

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

• Bachelors degree in recreational therapy, psychology or a related degree.
• U.S. state valid driver’s license and minimum age of twenty‑one (21) years old. Must be capable of attaining approved Melmark driver status.
• Lifesaving/Lifeguarding Certification and CPR for Professional Rescue Certification required within 90 days of hire.
• Water Safety Instructor (WSI) certification is preferred. Pesticide Applicator License preferred. 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 the needs and limitations of individuals with intellectual and/or physical disabilities to improve engagement.
• Assist in the assessment of leisure skills and needs of individuals diagnosed with intellectual and/or physical disabilities.
• Completes daily/weekly/monthly activity schedules and ensures appropriate social/recreational activities planned and implemented for individuals to improve engagement.
• Conduct a range of daily individual and/or group therapeutic and leisure activities to promote the individuals’ highest functional levels and improve active engagement.
• Physically assists in the adaptive swimming courses for individuals and/or groups.
• Provides lifeguard support during aquatics program. Efficiently uses appropriate lifesaving techniques in emergency situations.
• Assists with oversight of all areas of pool operation and maintenance including monitoring pool chemistry as well as pool and air temperature. Ensures that the pool doors are never propped open.
• Provides staff training to day program and residential staff on any specific goals objectives

• Work with a nationally known leader in quality‑driven initiatives
• Generous Paid Time Off Benefits including Vacation, Holiday and Sick!
• Melmark Sponsored Pension Plan AND 403(b) with employer matching
• Health, Dental, Vision Insurance
• Flexible 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

INDMPA