ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Recreation Therapy Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

stcam

Recreation Therapy Assistant

Wauwatosa, WI

Camillus is seeking a Recreation Therapy Assistant who is passionate about enriching the lives of older adults. In this rewarding role, you'll help plan and lead engaging therapeutic activities that ...

Thompson Health

Recreation Therapist

Canandaigua, NY · On-site

$21 - $29/hr

Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS), Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA), Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) with recreation experience, or equivalent credentials preferred.

Thompson Health

Recreation Therapist

Canandaigua, NY · On-site

$21 - $29/hr

Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS), Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA), Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) with recreation experience, or equivalent credentials preferred.

Thompson Health

Recreation Therapist

Canandaigua, NY · On-site

$21 - $29/hr

Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS), Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA), Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) with recreation experience, or equivalent credentials preferred.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsRecreation Therapy Assistant Jobs

Recreation Therapy Assistant information

See salary details

$9

$32

$67

How much do recreation therapy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreation therapy assistant in the United States is $32.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $62.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Recreation Therapy Assistant vs Recreational Therapist?

AspectRecreation Therapy AssistantRecreational Therapist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationBachelor's degree in recreation therapy or related field; certification often required
Work EnvironmentHospitals, rehab centers, long-term care facilitiesSimilar settings, with more independent clinical responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare providers, rehab centers, community programsHealthcare facilities, mental health centers, rehabilitation clinics
Job FocusAssist in implementing recreational activities under supervisionDesign and lead therapeutic recreation programs independently

Recreation Therapy Assistants support recreational activities under supervision, focusing on assisting with programs. Recreational Therapists develop and lead therapeutic recreation plans, often requiring higher credentials. Both roles work in healthcare settings, but the Therapist has more independent responsibilities and advanced qualifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Recreation Therapy Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Recreation Therapy Assistant, you need a background in recreation, therapy, or a related field, often supported by a high school diploma or associate degree and relevant experience. Familiarity with activity planning software, adaptive equipment, and client documentation systems is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, creativity, and patience help you engage clients and adapt activities to diverse needs. These capabilities are crucial for promoting client well-being, enhancing quality of life, and supporting therapeutic goals.

What are some common challenges Recreation Therapy Assistants face when working with diverse participant groups?

Recreation Therapy Assistants often work with individuals who have a wide range of abilities, backgrounds, and needs, which can present challenges in planning and adapting activities to be inclusive and engaging for everyone. Balancing the physical, emotional, and cognitive limitations of participants while maintaining a positive and motivating environment requires strong communication and creative problem-solving skills. Additionally, assistants may need to collaborate closely with therapists, caregivers, and other staff to ensure activities align with therapeutic goals, which can require flexibility and teamwork.

What is a therapeutic recreation assistant?

A therapeutic recreation assistant supports recreational activities designed to improve the physical, emotional, and social well-being of clients with disabilities or health conditions. They work under the supervision of a recreation therapist and may help plan, organize, and facilitate activities using various tools and adaptive techniques. Certification or training in recreation therapy is often required for this role.

What skills do you need to be a recreation assistant?

Recreation Therapy Assistants need strong communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with clients and team members. They should have good organizational abilities, basic knowledge of therapeutic activities, and often require certification or training in CPR and first aid. Physical stamina and patience are also important for supporting clients in various recreational activities.

What does a recreational therapist assistant do?

A recreational therapy assistant supports recreational therapists by helping plan and facilitate activities that promote physical, emotional, and social well-being for clients. They may assist with activity setup, monitor participant safety, and document progress, often working in healthcare or community settings. Certification or training in recreational therapy techniques is typically required.

Where do PTAs get paid the most?

Recreation Therapy Assistants typically earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare services, such as urban areas or states with robust healthcare industries. Salaries can also vary based on experience, certifications, and the specific healthcare facility or organization.

What are Recreation Therapy Assistants?

Recreation Therapy Assistants are professionals who help plan, implement, and oversee recreational activities for individuals with physical, mental, or emotional challenges. They work under the supervision of Recreation Therapists to support patients’ rehabilitation, improve their quality of life, and promote socialization. Their tasks may include organizing games, arts and crafts, outings, and fitness programs tailored to participants’ needs. Recreation Therapy Assistants typically work in settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and community facilities.
More about Recreation Therapy Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Recreation Therapy Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Recreation Therapy Assistant 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 Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Recreation Therapy Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Recreation Therapy Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Recreation Therapy Assistant jobs are:
Recreation Therapy Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recreation Therapy Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 28% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 56% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,872 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

Recreation Therapy - Assistant Recreation Therapy

stcam

Wauwatosa, WI

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Other

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Make a Meaningful Difference—One Activity at a Time

St. Camillus is seeking a Recreation Therapy Assistant who is passionate about enriching the lives of older adults. In this rewarding role, you’ll help plan and lead engaging therapeutic activities that promote connection, independence, and overall quality of life for our residents—both in group settings and through one-on-one interactions.

If you are creative, compassionate, and interested in healthcare or aging services, we encourage you to apply.

What You’ll Do

As a Recreation Therapy Assistant, you will:

  • Plan, organize, and implement engaging recreational and therapeutic activities.
  • Support residents during activities by providing clear instructions and hands-on assistance.
  • Encourage participation through personal outreach, flyers, and special events.
  • Document resident participation, behaviors, and one-on-one visits.
  • Assist new residents with transition and inclusion into community life.
  • Facilitate community outings, special events, and themed activities.
  • Provide wheelchair transportation and ambulation support as needed.
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to meet residents’ changing needs.
  • Assist with monthly activity calendars, room set-ups, decorations, and entertainment coordination.
  • Ensure resident safety, dignity, confidentiality, and adherence to organizational policies.
What We’re Looking For

Minimum Qualifications & Skills:

  • Individuals pursuing a healthcare-related degree or those passionate about serving older adults are encouraged to apply.
  • High School Diploma or GED preferred.
  • Creativity and enthusiasm for designing engaging activities.
  • Strong communication and organizational skills.
  • Ability to document clearly and accurately.
  • Basic computer skills (email, flyers, internet browsing).
  • Knowledge of community recreation resources is a plus.
  • Valid driver’s license required.
  • Ability to safely perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
  • Flexibility to work weekends, evenings, and occasional daytime hours.
Why Join St. Camillus?
  • Be part of a mission-driven organization that values dignity, compassion, and community.
  • Gain hands-on experience in healthcare and therapeutic recreation.
  • Make a direct, positive impact on residents’ daily lives.
  • Work alongside dedicated professionals in a supportive, team-oriented environment.

Hours: Every other Weekend/ Two Evenings with opportunity to pick up hours

Apply