Recreational Therapy Specialist I

The Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is seeking a motivated and dedicated Recreational Therapy Specialist I to join our team in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities. This role involves the creation and execution of therapeutic objectives for recreational services, ensuring that activities are tailored to the unique interests and capabilities of each individual.

Key Responsibilities:

The responsibilities outlined below serve as a general overview and are not exhaustive.

· Formulate and execute a support plan by selecting recreational activities aimed at effectively achieving set goals and objectives.

· Evaluate the needs of consumers to establish therapeutic goals and objectives for recreational growth, determining the appropriate instructional methods.

· Facilitate engagement in meaningful activities that align with individual recreational and day program aspirations.

· Contribute to data collection and documentation regarding progress.

· Develop programs based on individual assessments and Individual Service Plan (ISP) data.

Preferred Qualifications:

· Basic proficiency in computer applications.

· Previous experience in a recreational program environment.

· Familiarity with assessments and documentation processes.

· Experience in data correlation.

· Background in program development.

Agency Requirements:

· Applicants must be at least eighteen (18) years old.

· A valid Class D Motor Vehicle Operator's License is required.

Work Location:

Position based in Massachusetts.

Work Schedule:

Full Time - 40 Hours

Working hours include 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for four days, with one evening shift from 12:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. per week.

Days off include Friday and Saturday.

The evening shift will be coordinated with the Supervisor to accommodate departmental needs. Flexibility is essential.

About the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services:

The mission of DDS is to foster innovative and meaningful opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, to engage fully and contribute as valued members of their communities. DDS supports over 43,000 individuals throughout their lives, offering a range of day, employment, and residential services. The agency manages a significant budget and employs a large workforce dedicated to serving the community.

Pre-Hire Process:

Recommended candidates must successfully complete pre-employment screening, which includes:

· A search of the Disabled Persons Protection Commission (DPPC) Abuse Registry.

· A criminal background check (CORI) in accordance with regulations set by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services.

· National Background Checks, including a fingerprint-based check.

As part of the hiring process, the Office of Human Resources will verify any college-level degrees awarded to the selected candidate. Additionally, any required licensure for the position will be confirmed. Information provided during the hiring process is subject to public record laws.

If you require assistance with the application or interview process and would like to request an ADA accommodation, please complete the Reasonable Accommodation Online Request Form.

Qualifications:

First consideration will be given to applicants who apply within the initial 14 days.

Minimum Entrance Requirements:

Applicants must possess at least (A) two years of full-time or equivalent part-time experience in planning, organizing, or conducting therapeutic recreation services in a recognized agency, or (B) any equivalent combination of the required experience.

Comprehensive Benefits:

Joining the Commonwealth offers an extensive suite of employee benefits that enhance the overall value of your compensation package. We are committed to providing a supportive work environment for you and your family.

COVID-19 and Influenza Vaccination Requirement:

Title 101 CMR requires certain agency staff to have received the COVID-19 and Influenza vaccinations or to have taken necessary mitigation measures to prevent viral transmission in state facilities. Successful candidates will need to acknowledge and attest to their vaccination status.

An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer:

The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other protected status. We encourage individuals who believe they possess the necessary skills to apply for this role.