Performs a variety of duties associated with the provision of the Therapeutic Recreation program. Works directly with participants and their families to provide Therapeutic Recreation modalities including, but not limited to, classes for all ages and ability levels, personal instruction, Special Olympics, and adaptive aquatics. May work independently or with other Therapeutic Recreation staff members to provide these services.

Supervision Received: Works under the supervision of the TR Coordinator.

Supervision Exercised: Provides direction to Therapeutic Recreation Assistants, volunteers and interns.

Examples of Duties: The following examples of duties are intended to be illustrative only and are not intended to be all-inclusive.

• Implements Therapeutic Recreation modalities and works with participants and their families in compliance with the standards of practice for Therapeutic Recreation and the guidelines set by the HRCA for its community Therapeutic Recreation program.
• Teaches classes and directly provides personal instruction as assigned according to established procedures.
• Provides receipts for personal instruction services rendered within time frame established.
• Takes an active role in ensuring that Individual Service Plans are completed and updated as required for assigned participants. Tracks participant progress, and scholarship forms according to goals or procedures established. Assists with writing and evaluating grants as assigned.
• Provides consultation to staff to promote inclusion of participants with disabilities.
• Implements a customer service model that enhances positive communication and support for all customers, both internal and external. Role models professionalism in attire and style of interaction.
• Helps to develop new and innovative programs that encourage growth in participation in Therapeutic Recreation programs and services.
• Teams with the TR Coordinator, other TR Specialists and TR Assistants to provide programming, support and to offer clinical suggestions for addressing participant needs.
• Takes an active role in maintaining a current body of knowledge regarding a wide range of disabilities. Seeks assistance from the TR Coordinator when additional information is needed.
• Helps to promote/market programs by providing written information for monthly HRCA newsletter, preparing bulletin boards, program flyers, and other promotion materials. May Assist the TR Coordinator with the Special Needs sections of the HRCA Activity Guide.
• Takes responsibility for the safe and proper use of program equipment. Stores equipment properly. Informs the TR Coordinator of any damaged or missing equipment.
• Under the guidance of the TR Coordinator implements and monitors the process for needs assessment, goal-development and documentation regarding special needs participants assigned. Provides consultation regarding TR programs and services as assigned.
• Performs related duties as assigned and required.

Physical and Environmental Standards: Most work is performed indoors in a busy recreation center where noise and interruptions prevail. Must be able to frequently move and occasionally sit, walk, stand, climb, bend, kneel, stoop, reach and lift, push or pull. Manual dexterity is needed to type, write, and use computer and phone. The ability to talk and hear via the telephone and through face to face communication is needed. Vision requirements include near and far acuity. Upper body strength is a requisite to lift/ move a maximum of 40 pounds unassisted and 60 pounds with assistance.

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: Knowledge of Therapeutic Recreation programs and developmentally appropriate practices for individuals of all ages with moderate/severe disabilities; knowledge of procedures/techniques for working with a variety of conditions. Ability to organize, coordinate tasks and work directly in multiple programs. Ability to consult with staff regarding Therapeutic Recreation techniques and modalities. Computer literate. Ability to effectively communicate, both verbal and written, with internal and external customers. Ability to handle conflict. Must be able to physically assist clients with disabilities and provide direction for volunteers and assistants. Must possess current First Aid certification & CPR or obtain it in 30 days. Must be able to acquire lifeguard certification. Other aquatics certifications highly desirable. Must pass a Drug and Background check

Education: Bachelors degree in Therapeutic Recreation or Recreation with an option or emphasis in Therapeutic Recreation from an accredited college or university. Must be an N.C.T.R.C. certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist or able to obtain certification within six months of hire.

Experience: Minimum of three months Therapeutic Recreation experience.

Must have successfully completed a Therapeutic Recreation internship.