Recreation Leader - Therapeutic Recreation

Benefit type: Part time-non benefited

Benefits available: For a full description of our benefits, please .

Have previous experience in childcare or education support in Therapeutic Recreation?

Join our therapeutic recreation staff!

OPEN UNTIL FILLED- First review of candidates on 4/8/2026

The Therapeutic Recreation Leader will work to assist with 1:1 needs of children with disabilities, and foster inclusion in a general recreation program. You will interact with youth through developmentally appropriate crafts, games, and/or other planned activities. Many of the programs are field trip based and staff will have the opportunity to support kids and teen in exciting adventures and experiences in Central Oregon.

The essential functions of this role are as follows:

• Supervise therapeutic recreation participants in district facilities and programs, helping to provide safe and rewarding experiences.
• Interacts with participants through developmentally appropriate crafts, games and/or other planned activities.
• Creates daily plans for classes and activities within established guidelines and curriculum.
• Oversees the safety, comfort and progress of participants.
• Adapts activities as needed to meet the abilities and needs of individuals.
• Prepares equipment, materials and supplies required for conducting activities.
• Sets up, takes downs and cleans-up after class as required.
• Communicate effectively with parent/guardian of participants regarding behavior issues, participants' special needs, questions and concerns.
• Completes required class records, progress reports, certificates, etc.
• Respond to accidents and incidents according to procedure.
• Acts as a Mandatory Reporter; reports incidents of child abuse/neglect.

This is a Summer position

Hours can vary from 20-40 based on program need and staff availability/preference - please inquire

Summer programs run June 15th - September 4th - some flexibility in end date - please inquire

Mandatory trainings held on the following dates:

• Thursday, June 4th, 4:30pm - 7pm
• Saturday, June 6th, 8am - 5pm
• Tuesday, June 9th, 4:30pm - 7pm
• Wednesday, June 10th, 4:30pm - 7pm

Strong Knowledge of:

• Basic recreation activity planning, class management techniques and leadership strategies.
• Progressive methods for teaching skills associated with assignment.
• Basic youth development principle.

Skill and Ability to:

• Plan, lead and instruct assigned recreation activities;
• Understand the needs of participants and adapt accordingly;
• Motivate participants through positive encouragement;
• Demonstrate skills responsible for teaching;
• Perform independently within a structured environment;
• Interact effectively with a variety of patrons/participants;
• Communicate effectively, tactfully, and pleasantly with the public and others; and
• Establish and maintain positive, respectful and cooperative working relationships with all contacts.

Education, Experience, and Training

Supervision is not a responsibility of this position; however, position may provide direction over volunteers and Recreation 1’s. Works under the general supervision of a supervisor. Receives ongoing and specific direction from lead and supervisory staff. Carries out work with some independence but work and decisions are typically reviewed prior to final execution.

Depending on job assignment, duties may be performed either indoors or outdoors, which may include exposure to environmental conditions such as extreme temperatures. Work schedule is varied and may require evenings, weekends and holidays. Ability to walk and stand for sustained periods of time with frequent climbing, lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, bending, and twisting. The flow of work and character of duties involve normal mental and visual attention much or all of the time.

Physical exertion includes frequent walking, bending, and the ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds unassisted, pushing, pulling, and kneeling in order to deliver equipment and supplies and set-up and break-down equipment and facilities. Exposure to large crowds, uncooperative or difficult individuals, exposure to illness, and periods of continuous demand.

Applicants are screened based upon their relevant knowledge, abilities, skills, experience, and training. An offer of employment is contingent on the verification of credentials and other information required by Bend Park & Recreation District policies, including a background check and a driving history review when driving is required for position.

Under Oregon law, veterans who meet minimum qualifications for a position may be eligible for…