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Recreational Therapist Assistant Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

InnovAge

Activities Assistant

Albuquerque, NM

$16.68 - $21.73/hr

Overview Overview section Responsibilities The Activities Assistant is responsible for assisting ... Attends meetings regarding participant care as assigned by the Recreation Therapist. * Assists Day ...

InnovAge

Activities Assistant

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$16.68 - $21.73/hr

Overview Overview section Responsibilities The Activities Assistant is responsible for assisting ... Attends meetings regarding participant care as assigned by the Recreation Therapist. * Assists Day ...

InnovAge

Activities Assistant

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$16.68 - $19.23/hr

Responsibilities The Activities Assistant is responsible for assisting with the implementation of ... Attends meetings regarding participant care as assigned by the Recreation Therapist. * Assists Day ...

Phenom People

Asst Activity Therapist

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Activity Assistant Genesis is one of the nation's leading providers of healthcare services from ... recreation-based activities that stimulate the mind and body and promote social interaction ...

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All JobsRecreational Therapist JobsRecreational Therapist Assistant JobsRecreational Therapist Assistant Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Recreational Therapist Assistant information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$8

$30

$63

How much do recreational therapist assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreational therapist assistant in Rio Rancho, NM is $30.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $58.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a recreational therapist assistant?

Recreational Therapist Assistants work under the supervision of certified recreational therapists to help plan, implement, and monitor recreational activities for individuals with disabilities or illnesses. Their goal is to support clients in improving their physical, emotional, and social well-being through activities like arts and crafts, sports, music, and games. They also assist with documenting client progress and ensuring a safe, supportive environment during activities.

What does a recreational therapist assistant do?

As a recreational therapist assistant, you support a primary therapist while providing therapy and care for clients or patients. You may help set up and run a therapeutic activity or treatment, examine the behavior of patients, help implement clinical treatments, or conduct a psychological assessment to gain a better understanding of the unique needs of each patient. Recreational therapist assistants often specialize in specific groups that use recreational therapy, such as children or veterans, and which group you work with may impact your career opportunities and path. Most recreational therapist assistants work regular hours, but employers may occasionally ask you to work overtime to help address particularly complex or difficult cases.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a recreational therapist assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Recreational Therapist Assistant, you need knowledge of therapeutic recreation methods, basic health care practices, and typically a relevant associate degree or certification. Familiarity with activity planning software, adaptive equipment, and documentation systems is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and creativity help you engage clients and support the lead therapist effectively. These skills are crucial for delivering safe, effective, and meaningful therapeutic activities that enhance clients' well-being.

How does a recreational therapist assistant typically collaborate with therapists and other healthcare team members?

As a Recreational Therapist Assistant, you’ll work closely under the supervision of certified recreational therapists, supporting the design and implementation of therapeutic activities for patients. You’ll often communicate with nurses, physical therapists, and social workers to coordinate care, share observations, and adjust activity plans based on patient progress. This collaborative environment helps ensure that recreational interventions are safely integrated into each patient’s overall treatment plan. Regular team meetings and report sharing are common and provide opportunities for learning and professional growth.

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

AspectRecreational Therapist AssistantRecreational Therapist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification often preferredBachelor's degree in recreation therapy or related field; certification required
Work EnvironmentAssists in therapeutic activities under supervision, in healthcare or rehab settingsDevelops and implements therapy plans independently, in hospitals, rehab centers, or community settings
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in healthcare facilities, assisted living, and rehab centersWorks in similar settings, often with more responsibility for planning and decision-making

The main difference between a Recreational Therapist Assistant and a Recreational Therapist lies in their level of responsibility and required education. The assistant supports therapy activities under supervision, while the therapist independently develops and manages treatment plans. Both roles are vital in healthcare settings focused on improving patient well-being through recreational activities.

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Recreational Therapist Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recreational Therapist Assistant job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,840 per year, or $30.7 per hour.

SPSV-RECREATIONAL THERAPIST-26-27-01

Special Services Corporation

Los Lunas, NM • On-site

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Recreational Therapist

To implement Individualized Education Programs goals that support students' abilities to participate in meaningful recreation and other activity-based interventions in the educational setting.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Master's degree from an accredited college or university
  • New Mexico Public Education Department Licensure in Recreational Therapy

Performance Responsibilities:

  • Follow local, state and federal law and adhere to the Public Education Department and Local School Board Policy.
  • Maintain confidentiality of student information.
  • Serve as a resource to school staff members in the area of recreation and activity based therapy.
  • Provide individual and/or group therapy to students.
  • Provide assessment of students with barriers that prevent them from participating in meaningful leisure activities.
  • Assist in the development of Individualized Education Programs to meet individual student's needs.
  • Perform other relevant tasks as may be assigned.

Reports To:

Principal and Special Services Administrators

Terms Of Employment:

Work year will be in accord with current schedule for 191-day' Certified Ancillary. Salary Schedule to be determined by individual training and experience level on current Certified Ancillary' Salary Schedule.

Evaluation:

Performance of this position will be evaluated annually in accordance with provisions of the Board of Education's policy on evaluation of certified personnel.

Physical Level Rating:

This position will require the employee to function at a "medium" physical capacity as defined by Workman's Compensation statutes. "Medium" physical capacity indicates the ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally or up to 25 pounds frequently.

Physical Requirement Details:

Work Actions:

  • Finger dexterity FS
  • Sitting F
  • Standing F
  • Walking F
  • Repetitive Motions:
    • Hand: right F left F both F
    • Foot: right F left F both F
    • Grasping: hand right F left F
    • Fine manipulation: right F left F
  • Use Of Head And Neck:
    • Static F
    • Flexing F
    • Rotating:
  • Work Positions:
    • Bending F
    • Squatting F
    • Crawling R
    • Climbing R
    • Reaching F
    • Vision C
  • Activities:
    • Unprotected Heights R
    • Driving automotive equipment 0
    • Around machinery 0
    • Temperature extremes 0
    • Noise and vibration F
    • Hazards R
    • Dust, Fumes, Odors, Chemicals R
  • Balance And Coordination:
    • C

Application Deadline:

Until filled

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