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Recreational Therapist Assistant Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

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Recreational Therapist Assistant information

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$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.

Clinician Educator Assistant Professor of Orthopedics & Rehabilitation in PM&R

University of New Mexico

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 5 hours ago

University Of New Mexico rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

127th of 627 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Clinician Educator Assistant Professor of Orthopedics & Rehabilitation in PM&R
Posting Number
req34989
Employment Type
Faculty
Faculty Type
Clinician Educator
Hiring Department
Physical Medicine & Rehab (372A)
Academic Location
School of Medicine
Benefits Eligible
The University of New Mexico provides a comprehensive package of benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. In addition, UNM offers educational benefits through the tuition remission and dependent education programs. See the Benefits home page for more information.
Position Summary
The Department of Orthopaedics & Rehabilitation at the University ofNew Mexico (UNM) is seeking a full-time Physiatrist with expertise in spinalcord injury medicine. This position is a key component of the Division ofPhysical Medicine & Rehabilitation's (PM&R) growth and will strengthenboth clinical services and academic training within the program.
The successful candidate will provide comprehensive inpatient andoutpatient spinal cord injury rehabilitation, supervise residents and medicalstudents, and contribute to the didactic and clinical curriculum of thePM&R Residency Program. This four-year categorical program requires strongexposure to spinal cord injury management and interdisciplinary rehabilitation,making this position essential to maintaining ACGME compliance and enhancingresident education. We are seeking candidates who are board-certified (oreligible) in PM&R; fellowship training or board certification in SpinalCord Injury Medicine is strongly preferred.
With acatchment population of over 800,000 and very little competition, the UNMhospital is a 618-bed, Level 1 trauma center servicing a state with a verystrong need for PM&R services. Applicants with diverse interests inPM&R are all welcome and will be well-supported with the multi-specialtyteam focusing on using a wide range of minimally invasive surgical andnon-surgical techniques.
Albuquerqueoffers a family-friendly environment, great access to diverse populations,terrific public and private schooling options, boutique shopping, an abundanceof outdoor recreational activities and a reasonable cost of living. Albuquerqueoffers beautiful, scenic and secluded neighborhoods with traditional, colonialand modern architecture. Centrally located with close proximity to Denver, CO;Phoenix, AZ; Dallas, TX and many national and state forests and recreationalareas.
Successful candidatesshould have a commitment to working with broadly diverse student and communitypopulations. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply, including women,minorities and those from other underrepresented groups.
The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining adiverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisionswithout regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, genderidentity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any otherprotected class.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
  • MD, DO, or equivalent degree
  • U.S. Board certified or board eligible in PM&R
  • Eligible for licensure in the state of New Mexico

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Fellowship training or board certification in Spinal Cord InjuryMedicine
  • Demonstrated interest and experience in resident and medical studenteducation
  • Track record of scholarly activity or academic contributions
  • A demonstrated commitment to cultivate an understanding of the rich andvaried cultures of New Mexico and to the success of the university's mission toserve local and global communities

Application Instructions
Only applications submitted through the official UNMJobs site will be accepted. If you are viewing this job advertisement on a 3rd party site, please visit UNMJobs to submit an application.
APPLICANT: A completed application must include a letter of interest addressing each minimum and preferred qualification and relating personal qualifications to the responsibilities of the position; CV or resume; and the names, address, and telephone numbers of two references.
For Best Consideration
For best consideration, please apply by 11/21/2025. This position will remain open until filled.
The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.
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