DSHS OHBH Recreation and Athletics Specialist 3
About The Position
DSHS’s Olympic Heritage Behavioral Health (OHBH) in Tukwila, WA is seeking a Recreation and Athletics Specialist 3 to join the Rehabilitation Department and support programming within the Treatment Mall. A Recreation and Athletics Specialist 3 develops and facilitates recreational and leisure-based programming that supports patient engagement, skill building, and overall wellness. This role includes planning and leading activities such as sports, fitness, arts, and social programming, while supporting a structured therapeutic environment for adults receiving inpatient psychiatric care. Services are primarily delivered within the Treatment Mall, an off-ward multipurpose therapeutic space. Reporting to the Therapies Supervisor, with oversight from the Chief Clinical Officer, this position collaborates with Behavioral Health Specialists, psychology associates, and the broader multidisciplinary team to support individualized recovery and engagement. Possible schedules for this position include Sunday-Wednesday, Wednesday- Saturday, or Friday-Monday. King County employees receive 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary and are eligible to receive a free ORCA card for transportation use. Positions performed on-site at this work location at least three days per week may be eligible for an additional 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary.
Requirements
- Experience planning and facilitating group activities, including large groups
- Ability to support patients during behavioral crises using therapeutic and program-approved approaches
- Knowledge of a range of recreational activities, such as fitness, sports, arts, and social programming
- Experience working with adults with mental illness, preferably in an inpatient setting
- Ability to respond effectively to emergency situations
- Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively within a team
- Bachelor's degree involving major study in: Recreation or therapeutic recreation OR Music/drama, or physical education OR Psychology, sociology, or education with a minor in recreation, physical education, music, or drama
- Two years of paid professional recreation experience OR One year of experience as a WA State Recreation Athletic Specialist 2
Responsibilities
- Develop and facilitate recreational programming based on patient needs, interests, and abilities
- Plan and lead group and individual activities, including sports, fitness, arts, and special events
- Provide structured engagement services that support patient participation and skill development
- Collaborate with clinical staff and participate in interdisciplinary treatment planning
- Support crisis intervention and de-escalation efforts as needed
- Complete required documentation, including attendance and patient response to programming
- Ability to obtain Agency Affiliated Counselor Registration and Washington State Food Worker card within 30 days of employment
Benefits
- 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary
- Eligible to receive a free ORCA card for transportation use
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
