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Adaptive Pediatric Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sensory gyms, adaptive equipment, and play-based therapy spaces * Collaborative team including ... Carry a pediatric caseload (birth-18) * Complete initial and ongoing evaluations across fine motor ...

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Adaptive Pediatric information

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$53.5K

$86.7K

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How much do adaptive pediatric jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for adaptive pediatric in the United States is $86,665.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,000.00 and $94,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in adaptive pediatric care, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in adaptive pediatric care often encounter challenges such as tailoring interventions to meet diverse physical and cognitive needs, engaging children with varying abilities, and collaborating effectively with families and multidisciplinary teams. Addressing these challenges involves ongoing communication with caregivers, staying up-to-date with best practices and adaptive technologies, and fostering strong relationships with occupational therapists, physical therapists, and educators. Flexibility, creativity, and a patient-centered approach are essential for providing effective, individualized care in this rewarding field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Adaptive Pediatric Therapist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Adaptive Pediatric Therapist, you need expertise in pediatric therapy techniques, child development, and a relevant clinical license such as OT, PT, or SLP. Familiarity with adaptive equipment, assistive technology, and standardized assessment tools is typically required. Compassion, creativity, and strong communication skills help therapists engage children and collaborate with families and care teams. These skills are essential for delivering individualized care and improving functional outcomes for children with diverse abilities.

What are adaptive pediatric specialists?

Adaptive pediatric specialists are healthcare professionals who work with children that have physical, developmental, or cognitive disabilities. Their role is to assess each child's unique needs and recommend or provide adaptive equipment, therapies, and interventions that promote independence and improve quality of life. They often collaborate with families, schools, and other healthcare providers to ensure a holistic approach to care. These specialists may include occupational therapists, physical therapists, and rehabilitation engineers who focus on pediatric populations.
Inpatient Therapeutic Recreation and Adaptive Specialist (Full Time)

Inpatient Therapeutic Recreation and Adaptive Specialist (Full Time)

ChildServe

Johnston, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


ChildServe rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description
Join our team as a Recreation Therapist & Adaptive Specialist, where you'll provide direct therapeutic recreation services to children and young adults in our complex medical and rehab inpatient units. In this role, you'll develop and implement customized adaptive programs, using play-based interventions to support physical, cognitive, and social growth. You'll collaborate with an interdisciplinary team to create engaging, inclusive experiences tailored to each individual's needs
Schedule
  • Monday-Thursday, 8am-6pm
  • Saturday hours once every 6-8 weeks

How you'll make an impact
  • Provide direct therapeutic recreation services to children and young adults
  • Develop and implement customized adaptive programs to support engagement and development
  • Utilize play-based interventions to promote physical, cognitive, and social growth
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including occupational, physical, and speech therapists, nurses, and other healthcare providers
  • Adapt activities and equipment to meet individual needs and abilities
  • Foster a fun, inclusive, and supportive environment that encourages participation and progress
  • Document progress and adjust interventions as needed to optimize outcomes

Benefits
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • 403(b) retirement plan with company match
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)

What You'll Need
  • Required: BA/BS in Therapeutic Recreation
  • Required: Therapeutic Recreation Certification by NCTRC
  • Preferred: One year of experience in the field of Therapeutic Recreation and with children with complex medical conditions
  • Expertise in custom adaptation of recreational or leisure equipment, and with use of power tool equipment
  • Ability to lift up to 35 lbs, be mobile within the assigned work area, and frequently bend, lift, reach, and stand.
  • Ability to read, write, and speak the English language.

Not sure if you hit 100% of the position expectations? Let's talk! Reach out to our Talent Acquisition team by emailing [email protected].
Make a Difference Every Day at ChildServe
  • ChildServe partners with families to help children with special healthcare needs live a great life.
  • ChildServe is a leading pediatric healthcare provider with Iowa's only children's specialty hospital, offering a variety of services and programs to meet each child's unique needs.
  • ChildServe's four key specialty areas include: complex medical care, pediatric rehabilitation, autism and behavioral health, and community-based services. With a coordinated approach to care delivery, services are interwoven and streamlined, so families can address their child's needs in one location.
  • Established in 1928, ChildServe proudly provides more than 30 pediatric specialty services to nearly 6,000 children in Iowa each year.

ChildServe is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. To request assistance with the application process, please email [email protected].
ChildServe is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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