Therapeutic Recreation Director Jobs in Decatur, GA

JOB DESCRIPTION

Activities Director

Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF)

Department:

Activities / Therapeutic Recreation

Reports To:

Administrator / Director of Nursing

FLSA Status:

Non-Exempt / Exempt (based on facility)

Employment Type:

Full-Time

Certification Required:

AC (Activity Consultant) or ADC (Activity Director Certified)

POSITION SUMMARY

The Activities Director is responsible for planning, implementing, and evaluating a comprehensive, person-centered therapeutic activities program for residents of the Skilled Nursing Facility. This role ensures that each resident's physical, cognitive, social, emotional, and spiritual needs are addressed through meaningful engagement and recreational programming in compliance with federal and state regulations, including requirements set forth by CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services).

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Planning & Implementation

•        Develop, implement, and evaluate a monthly calendar of individual and group activities tailored to residents' assessed interests, abilities, and care plans.

•        Conduct initial and ongoing resident activity assessments (MDS Section F) in collaboration with the interdisciplinary care team.

•        Facilitate group activities including but not limited to: arts and crafts, music therapy, exercise programs, games, reminiscence groups, religious/spiritual services, and community outings.

•        Coordinate 1:1 activity visits for residents who are unable to participate in group programming.

•        Ensure programming is available 7 days per week, including evenings and weekends.

Regulatory Compliance & Documentation

•        Maintain compliance with CMS F-tag requirements (F679, F680) for activity programming in LTC settings.

•        Complete and document MDS Section F assessments accurately and within required timeframes.

•        Develop individualized activity care plans in collaboration with the IDT and update per regulatory requirements.

•        Maintain accurate attendance records, progress notes, and participation logs in the EMR system.

•        Participate in care plan conferences and interdisciplinary team meetings.

•        Prepare for and assist during state surveys; respond to deficiencies as required.

Staff & Volunteer Management

•        Recruit, hire, train, supervise, and evaluate activities staff and volunteers.

•        Schedule activities staff to maintain appropriate coverage for all shifts and programming needs.

•        Coordinate with facility volunteers, community organizations, and outside entertainers.

Community & Family Engagement

•        Foster relationships with community organizations, schools, religious groups, and businesses to enhance programming opportunities.

•        Communicate with residents' families regarding programming, special events, and individual resident engagement.

•        Organize and lead special events, holiday celebrations, and cultural observances.

Administrative Duties

•        Manage the activities department budget, including supply procurement within approved expenditures.

•        Maintain an inventory of activity supplies and equipment.

•        Submit required reports and documentation to the Administrator on a timely basis.

•        Participate in QAPI (Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement) initiatives related to resident engagement.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Minimum Qualifications:

•        High school diploma or GED required; Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Therapeutic Recreation, Gerontology, Social Work, or related field preferred.

•        Minimum of 2 years of experience in activities programming in a long-term care, SNF, or senior living environment.

•        Activity Director Certified (ADC) or Activity Consultant Certified (ACC) through NAAP or NCCAP, or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire.

•        Knowledge of federal and state regulations governing SNF activities programs (CMS Conditions of Participation, F-tags).

•        Proficiency with MDS 3.0 Section F completion preferred.

Preferred Qualifications:

•        Bachelor's degree in Therapeutic Recreation (TR) or Recreational Therapy (RT) with CTRS certification.

•        Experience with EMR systems (e.g., PointClickCare, MatrixCare).

•        CPR/First Aid certification (or ability to obtain upon hire).

•        Experience leading dementia-specific programming (e.g., Teepa Snow, Best Friends Approach).

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

•        Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build rapport with residents, families, and staff across all levels.

•        Demonstrated creativity and initiative in developing engaging, age-appropriate programming.

•        Ability to work effectively with individuals with a wide range of cognitive and physical abilities, including those with dementia, Alzheimer's, and other complex diagnoses.

•        Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.

•        Knowledge of person-centered care philosophy and application in a SNF setting.

•        Ability to work collaboratively as part of an interdisciplinary team.

•        Basic computer proficiency including Microsoft Office and EMR platforms.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

•        Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout the facility for extended periods.

•        Ability to lift and carry up to 25 lbs. (supplies, equipment, décor).

•        Ability to assist or supervise residents during activities, including those using mobility aids.

•        Must be able to work in a variety of indoor and outdoor environments.

WORKING CONDITIONS

This position is primarily facility-based in a skilled nursing environment. The Activities Director will interact daily with residents who may have complex medical, cognitive, and behavioral needs. Exposure to illness is possible. Some evening, weekend, and holiday scheduling is required to ensure 7-day programming coverage.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

This facility is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Employee Acknowledgment

Employee Signature

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Supervisor / Administrator Signature

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