ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Recreation Therapy Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

UCP Madison County

Recreation Therapy Specialist

Utica, NY · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Core Responsibilities * Assist artists at Day Program Studio sites to create their art. * Assist ... Recreation Therapy Specialist Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all ...

Masonicare

Recreation Therapy Aide

Rocky Hill, CT · On-site

Recreation Therapy Aide Rocky Hill, Connecticut * CNA Certified Nursing Assistant Rocky Hill, Connecticut * CNA Certified Nursing Assistant Rocky Hill, Connecticut Job Matching With just one click ...

GovernmentJobs.com

Recreation Therapy Intern

San Ramon, CA · On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

Recreational Therapy Intern The San Ramon Parks and Community Services Department is certified ... Enable interns to realize their personal strengths and challenges; * Assist interns to develop ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsRecreation Therapy 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 Aug 9, 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 skills do you need to be a recreation therapy assistant?

A recreation therapy assistant needs strong communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with clients. Knowledge of therapeutic activities, patience, and the ability to follow treatment plans are essential, along with relevant certifications or training in recreation therapy or related fields. Physical stamina and the ability to work in various settings are also important.

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.

How to become a recreation therapy assistant?

To become a recreation therapy assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and complete a postsecondary certificate or associate degree in recreation therapy or a related field. Certification or licensure may be required depending on the state or facility, and strong interpersonal skills and knowledge of therapeutic activities are important for success in this role.

What is a recreation therapy assistant?

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 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:
Recreation Therapy Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recreation Therapy Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,872 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

Recreation Therapy Specialist

UCP Madison County

Utica, NY • On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Pay $21.00 - $23.00 an hour
The Recreation Therapy Specialist (Adult Division) is responsible for working with people we support on art projects. This position will track and record all art produced by our artists and will assist art instructors as needed.
Core Responsibilities
  • Assist artists at Day Program Studio sites to create their art.
  • Assist the pottery instructor with pottery class (as needed).
  • Assist the silk instructor with silk art class (as needed).
  • Be the Curator of the art produced by the artists, track art & price list, record new art.
  • Make stretcher bars and frames in woodshop at Barneveld to stretch and frame paintings.
  • Assist with Exhibit & Gallery installations, art program events and receptions.
  • Prepare requisitions for wood framing, paint supplies and art room supplies.
  • Participate in Art Team meetings, ideas, planning, organizing and connecting with the public for events.
  • Assess individual's capabilities and develop, coordinate, implement, document and evaluate appropriate therapeutic recreation activities.
  • Maintain required documentation in accordance with agency and regulatory entities policies and guidelines.
  • Participate in activities as part of the treatment team that may include trainings and committees.
  • Ensure compliance with all pertinent government and agency regulations and operating standards.
  • Establish a work environment that creates positive communication between supervisors and employees and assimilates new employees to the Agency's culture, values and mission.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in a related field or;
  • a minimum of one year of experience in a related field.
  • Travel is required. Must have a valid New York State driver's license.

Benefits
Our work environment provides the opportunity to grow and learn in a fast-paced atmosphere. We offer competitive benefits and salary to include a low-cost individual health insurance plan, dollar for dollar retirement match (up to 7%), life insurance, voluntary benefits and generous paid time off.
  • Comprehensive Health/Dental/Vision
  • Direct Deposit
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Retirement Plan 403(b)
  • Life Insurance
  • Voluntary Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Generous PTO Plans (Sick, Vacation and Employee Leave)
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Service Awards
  • Employee Appreciation Events
  • Employee Discounts

Upstate Caring Partners is the premier provider of direct-care services and programs in Central New York for individuals of all abilities and their families. If you believe in empowering people, Upstate Caring Partners is an excellent place to start or grow your career. Please visit our careers website to access the full job description located within the job posting. upstatecpjobs.org
Recreation Therapy Specialist
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

Apply