Therapeutic Recreation Leader

$29,283 / year DOQ + Full-Time County Benefits.

James City County Parks & Recreation is seeking an individual to assist in supervising, organizing, and planning before and after school and summer programs for the inclusion of persons with disabilities. Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist preferred but not required. Successful candidates will have knowledge of diverse types of disabilities and be able to communicate effectively; work collaboratively with teachers and parents of those with disabilities; convey a positive attitude towards others; and have the ability to solve problems creatively. Classes and camp program schedules vary Mon. – Fri. between 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. and occasional evenings and weekends. Applicants must have experience working with individuals with disabilities and be able to lift up to 50 pounds and carry it up to 50 feet. CPR and first-aid training must be successfully completed after hire. Post-offer drug screen, fingerprinting, sex offender and Child Protective Services registry checks and tuberculosis test conducted. A valid Virginia driver’s license preferred. Accepting applications until the position is filled.

Responsibilities:

• Leads, teaches, and oversees participants with disabilities with varying ages, abilities, and skill levels in a variety of recreation programs, events, facilities and other related activities or services.
• Assists in planning and implementing disability specific activities in the areas of social, cognitive, emotional, and physical development; ensures implementation of participants’ accommodation plans; ensures accurate documentation of participants’ progress when necessary.
• Establishes and maintains rapport with participants, parents, school staff, administrative officials, and other community partners; responds to customer inquiries and/or complaints.
• Provides assistance in feeding, toileting and daily task completion; assist in reinforcement of daily living and self-help skills; accompany participants on field trips; work with participants and develop behavior modification skills to ensure a safe environment for play and participation; be able to respond appropriately during a behavior crisis.
• Assists in reporting all accidents, incidents, and disciplinary actions to a supervisor; oversees proper use of facility, equipment, and supplies.

 Requirements:

• Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist preferred, but not required.
• Any combination of education and experience equivalent to a high school diploma or equivalent; supplemented by college coursework in therapeutic recreation, recreation, education, or related field; and some experience working with individuals with disabilities and planning a wide range of activities.
• Must be at least 18 years of age; individuals between 16-18 years of age may be considered with proof of current education and some experience working with individuals with disabilities; however, certain restrictions apply.
• A valid Virginia driver’s license preferred with an acceptable driving record based on James City County’s criteria.
• Must possess, or be able to obtain within 60 days of hire, certification from the American Red Cross in First Aid and Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) for Professional Rescuers (Infant, Adults, and Child).
• Some knowledge of instructional procedures and practices; growth and development of children of different ages and abilities; varying types of disabilities and medical conditions; current Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards and best practices.
• Ability to work effectively in a team setting and with children, families, staff and community partners and contacts; solve complex problems; work efficiently and effectively under pressure such as deadlines or emergencies; work under minimal supervision.

Click here ​for full job description. Accepting applications until position is filled. Cover letters and resumes may also be attached, but a fully completed application is required for your application to be considered.

Only online applications to our website will be considered. To apply, please visit the James City County Career Center at https://jobs.jamescitycountyva.gov