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Entry Level Recreational Therapist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Army

Physical Therapist Aide (68F)

Houston, TX · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Position is entry level. REQUIREMENTS: * A U.S. citizen or permanent resident with a valid Green ... Access to recreational facilities, sports programs, and leisure activities.

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How much do entry level recreational therapist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level recreational therapist in the United States is $35.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.84 and $46.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level recreational therapist do?

An entry level recreational therapist helps plan and lead recreational activities for individuals with disabilities or illnesses to improve their physical, emotional, and social well-being. They may work under supervision to assess clients' needs, develop treatment plans, and facilitate activities such as arts and crafts, games, sports, or outings. Their goal is to use recreational activities as therapeutic tools to help clients gain skills, enhance their quality of life, and increase independence.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level recreational therapist?

To thrive as an Entry Level Recreational Therapist, you need a bachelor's degree in recreational therapy or a related field, knowledge of therapeutic recreation principles, and basic patient assessment skills. Familiarity with therapy planning software, documentation systems, and, in some cases, eligibility for CTRS (Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist) certification is beneficial. Strong interpersonal communication, creativity, and patience help build rapport with clients and adapt activities to individual needs. These skills are crucial for developing effective therapeutic programs that enhance clients' physical, emotional, and social well-being.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level recreational therapists in their first year on the job?

Entry level recreational therapists often face challenges such as adapting to diverse client needs, learning to develop effective treatment plans, and managing group dynamics within therapy sessions. Building rapport with clients and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams can be initially daunting, but these skills improve with experience. Additionally, new therapists may need to balance administrative duties with hands-on client interaction while receiving ongoing supervision and feedback.

What is the difference between Entry Level Recreational Therapist vs Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist?

AspectEntry Level Recreational TherapistCertified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or bachelor's degree in recreation therapy or related fieldBachelor's degree in recreation therapy plus CTRS certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, rehab centers, community programsSimilar settings, often with more specialized roles
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by healthcare and community organizationsStandard credential for recreation therapy roles in healthcare
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Entry Level Recreational Therapists typically hold a bachelor's degree and may not yet be certified, working under supervision. Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists (CTRS) have completed additional certification requirements, demonstrating a higher level of expertise. Both roles work in similar environments, but CTRS credentialing often leads to more advanced opportunities and recognition in the industry.

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Entry Level Recreational Therapist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Recreational Therapist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 55% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 22% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,740 per year, or $35.5 per hour.

Physical Therapist Aide (68F)

U.S. Army

Houston, TX • On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago

United States Army rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 495 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

 Enlist as a Soldier into the United States Army and as a Physical Therapy Specialist (68F), you’ll help licensed Physical Therapists treat and rehabilitate patients suffering from a variety of injuries and illnesses to decrease their pain and promote a physically fit lifestyle so they can be in top physical condition. You’ll receive the intensive instruction needed to provide patient care and administer physical therapy treatments that will treat disabilities and prevent future injuries. This is not a civilian contractor position.  
No experience necessary. Position is entry level.  
REQUIREMENTS:  
  • A U.S. citizen or permanent resident with a valid Green Card.
  • 17 to 34 Years Old.
  • High School Diploma or GED.  
  • Meet Tattoo Guidelines.  
  • No Major Law Violations.  
  • No Medical Concerns.  

TESTING & CERTIFICATIONS:  
  • 30 Nationally Recognized Certifications Available. 
  • 10 weeks of Basic Training. 
  • 28 weeks of Advanced Individual Training. 
  • 107 ASVAB Score: General Technical (GT). 
  • 101 ASVAB Score: Skilled Technical (ST).

SKILLS YOU'LL LEARN:  
  • Anatomy & Physiology. 
  • Therapeutic Exercises & Applications. 
  • Injury Prevention. 

BENEFITS:  
Financial Benefits:  
  • Salary and Bonuses: Competitive base pay with potential for bonuses, including enlistment bonuses and re-enlistment bonuses. 
  • Retirement Plan: Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) similar to a 401(k), and a pension plan for those who serve 20 years or more.  
  • Special Pays: Extra pay for hazardous duty, special skills, and deployment.

Healthcare:  
  • Medical Coverage: Comprehensive medical care for soldiers and their families through TRICARE.  
  • Dental and Vision: Access to dental and vision care services.  

Education:  
  • Tuition Assistance: Financial support for college courses while on active duty.  
  • GI Bill: Benefits for education and training programs, including the Post- 9/11 GI Bill.  
  • Student Loan Repayment: Assistance in repaying student loans.  

Housing and Living:  
  • Housing Allowance: Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) to cover the cost of housing.  
  • On-Base Housing: Access to housing on military installations.  
  • Commissary and Exchange: Discounts on groceries and goods at military stores.  

Career and Training:  
  • Professional Development: Opportunities for leadership training and career advancement.  
  • Skill Training: Technical and tactical training in various fields.  

Family Support:  
  • Family Programs: Support services for families, including counseling and childcare.  
  • Relocation Assistance: Help with moving costs and finding housing.  

Retirement and Veterans Benefits:  
  • Pension: Lifetime monthly pension after 20 years of service.  
  • VA Benefits: Access to Department of Veterans Affairs benefits, including healthcare and home loans.  

Recreation and Leisure:  
  • Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR): Access to recreational facilities, sports programs, and leisure activities.  

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About US Army

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Industry

National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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