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Recreation Therapy Aide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

State of Montana

Recreation Therapy Aide

Helena, MT · On-site

Recreation Therapy Aides (RTA)*plan, organize, and implement structured therapeutic activities that meet the diverse preferences and interests of the patients. Therapeutic activities are facilitated ...

State of Montana

Recreation Therapy Aide

Helena, MT · On-site

Recreation Therapy Aides (RTA) plan, organize, and implement structured therapeutic activities that meet the diverse preferences and interests of the patients. Therapeutic activities are facilitated ...

Masonicare Corp

Recreation Therapy Aide

Rocky Hill, CT · On-site

$17.17 - $24/hr

Recreation Therapy Aide Masonicare at Greenridge Place - Rocky Hill, CT Per Diem Develop and implement a variety of recreation programs and services to residents that are socially, physically and ...

State of Montana

Recreation Therapy Aide

Helena, MT · On-site

Recreation Therapy Aides (RTA) plan, organize, and implement structured therapeutic activities that meet the diverse preferences and interests of the patients. Therapeutic activities are facilitated ...

Masonicare Corp

Recreation Therapy Aide

Rocky Hill, CT · On-site

$17.17 - $24/hr

Recreation Therapy Aide Masonicare at Greenridge Place - Rocky Hill, CT Day Shift - 40 hours per week Develop and implement a variety of recreation programs and services to residents that are ...

State of Montana

Recreation Therapy Aide

Helena, MT · On-site

Recreation Therapy Aides (RTA) plan, organize, and implement structured therapeutic activities that meet the diverse preferences and interests of the patients. Therapeutic activities are facilitated ...

Montana

Recreation Therapy Aide

Helena, MT · On-site

Recreation Therapy Aides (RTA) plan, organize, and implement structured therapeutic activities that meet the diverse preferences and interests of the patients. Therapeutic activities are facilitated ...

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How much do recreation therapy aide jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreation therapy aide in the United States is $17.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a recreation therapy aide?

Recreation Therapy Aides are supportive healthcare professionals who assist recreational therapists in planning and implementing therapeutic activities for individuals with physical, emotional, or mental disabilities. They help organize and lead activities such as games, arts and crafts, and outings designed to improve clients' well-being and social skills. Recreation Therapy Aides also help monitor patients' progress, set up equipment, and ensure a safe and engaging environment. Their work is essential in rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, hospitals, and other care settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a recreation therapy aide, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Recreation Therapy Aide, you need a background in therapeutic recreation, basic healthcare knowledge, and often a high school diploma or relevant certification. Familiarity with activity planning software, adaptive equipment, and documentation systems is valuable in this role. Strong interpersonal skills, creativity, and patience help build rapport with clients and adapt activities to diverse abilities. These competencies are crucial for delivering safe, engaging, and effective therapeutic programs that enhance clients’ well-being.

What is the difference between Recreation Therapy Aide vs Recreation Therapist?

AspectRecreation Therapy AideRecreation Therapist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingBachelor's degree in recreation therapy or related field; certification often required
Work EnvironmentAssists in recreational activities under supervision, often in healthcare or senior living settingsDevelops and implements therapy plans, working independently with clients in healthcare, rehab, or community settings
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, nursing homes, rehab centers, senior living facilitiesHospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, community health organizations

The main difference is that Recreation Therapy Aides assist with activities under supervision, while Recreation Therapists design and lead therapy programs independently. Aides typically require less formal education, whereas Therapists need specialized degrees and certifications. Both roles work in similar environments, but Therapists have a broader scope of practice and responsibility.

What are some common challenges recreation therapy aides face when supporting diverse patient needs?

Recreation Therapy Aides often work with individuals of varying ages, abilities, and backgrounds, which can present challenges in adapting activities to meet each person's unique needs. Balancing group dynamics while ensuring everyone is engaged and included requires creativity and flexibility. Additionally, aides must collaborate closely with therapists, nurses, and family members to monitor progress and adjust interventions, making strong communication skills essential. Overcoming these challenges can be highly rewarding, as it directly impacts participants' quality of life and well-being.
What cities are hiring for Recreation Therapy Aide jobs? Cities with the most Recreation Therapy Aide job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Recreation Therapy jobs? The most popular types of Recreation Therapy jobs are:
What states have the most Recreation Therapy Aide jobs? States with the most job openings for Recreation Therapy Aide jobs include:
Recreation Therapy Aide jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recreation Therapy Aide job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 58% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,551 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Recreation Therapy Aide

State of Montana

Helena, MT • On-site

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

State Of Montana rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 51 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 50 rated states

Job description

The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) has a career opportunity as a Recreation Therapy Aide at Montana State Hospital - Grasslands. This position is located in Helena, MT at the Grasslands facility, which is an off-site facility of the Montana State Hospital. It is funded through June 30, 2027. After this date, the position may be funded permanently or may be subject to a reduction in force (RIF). *Recreation Therapy Aides (RTA)*plan, organize, and implement structured therapeutic activities that meet the diverse preferences and interests of the patients. Therapeutic activities are facilitated by RTA staff on unit as well as off unit in designated treatment areas to include campus-wide events, large and small group activities, and assigned individualized sessions. Why Join DPHHS Our mission at DPHHS is serving Montanans in their communities to improve health, safety, well-being, and empower independence. By joining our department, you will have the opportunity to perform meaningful work in public service to our state and its residents. The State of Montana's comprehensive benefits package includes healthcare coverage, retirement plans, paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays, work/life balance, and eligibility to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. In addition, DPHHS is the largest state agency with a wide range of advancement opportunities whether you are joining the workforce or have several years of experience. Qualifications for this Career Opportunity: * Knowledge of mental health diagnoses as well as developmental, intellectual, and physical disabilities. * Knowledge and experience planning and facilitating a variety of social and recreational activities to include fitness, arts and crafts, sports, social leisure, recreation, hobbies, and music. * Knowledge of application and use of a variety of recreation and fitness equipment. * Skill using motivational techniques to encourage patient involvement in treatment. * Effective verbal and written communication skills. * Ability to work with patients requiring different degrees of assistance. * Ability to deal with sensitive and confidential information according to HIPPA policy and procedure. * Ability to operate a personal computer and general office equipment as necessary to complete the essential functions including using spreadsheet, word processing, data base, e-mail, internet, and other computer programs. Minimum Qualifications (Education and Experience): * High School Diploma or equivalent. * One year of experience working as a psychiatric technician is required. * Other combinations of education and experience will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. How to Apply To be considered for a DPHHS position, submit the following required documents with your application on the State of Montana Careers website. When submitting the required documents, you must check the "relevant document" box to ensure your attachments are uploaded correctly to your application for this position. * Resume Successful applicants will be subject to background checks relevant to the position and must pass reference checks before an offer will be extended. DPHHS is an equal opportunity employer. Women, minorities, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. For a copy of the full job description or if you need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, contact DPHHS Human Resources listed below. Additional Information This position is grant funded through June 30, 2027. Title: Recreation Therapy Aide Location: Helena Requisition ID: 26141939

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