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Recreation Therapy Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Recreation Therapy Intern

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Recreation Therapy Intern REPORTS TO : Designated Coordinator & Internship Supervisor SCHEDULE ... WHAT YOU'LL DO: * Assist in planning and implementing therapeutic recreation programs that promote ...

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How much do recreation therapy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 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 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 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.

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 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.

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:
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Recreation Therapy Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recreation Therapy Assistant job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 64% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 29% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,872 per year, or $32.6 per hour.
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA), Wilkes-Barre Transitional Rehab Unit (PT, Days)

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA), Wilkes-Barre Transitional Rehab Unit (PT, Days)

Allied Services

Wilkes Barre, PA • On-site

$27.25 - $36.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

GENERAL SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Assistant Vice President, the Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) is responsible for providing occupational therapy treatment to assigned patients. The COTA will also coordinate services with Recreation Therapy to provide therapeutic leisure activities.

The COTA must be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age group of the patients served on his/her unit-geriatric. The COTA must demonstrate knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the life span and possess the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status and interpret the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's requirements relative to their age-specific needs as described in the Occupational Therapy and Recreation Therapy Departments' policies and procedures.

Type of supervision exercised: none. Jobs reporting to this position: none.

EDUCATION:

Associate's degree as Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant required.

WORK EXPERIENCE:

Minimum of one (1) year experience as COTA preferred.

Gerontology experience preferred.

SPECIAL EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS:

Must be cleared by PA State Police criminal history check.

Current licensure as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant by the PA State Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs required.

Good verbal and written communication skills and interpersonal skills required.

Valid PA driver's license required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Medium work: duties required exerting 25-50 lbs. of force occasionally (approximately 10-33% of shift), and/or 10-25 lbs of force frequently (approximately 33-66% of shift) when transferring patients during ADL training.

Good upper body strength required in the performance of passive range of motion and other related activities.

Position involves standing, bending and working in reaching and strained positions throughout shift.

Ability to transport self throughout facility is required.

ACCIDENT OR HEALTH HAZARDS:

Occasional exposure to blood and body substances.

Exposure to high degrees of temperature when assisting with thermoplastic splinting techniques.

Exposure to bonding solvents and adhesives.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Works in a well-lit therapy department and in units related to patient care.

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