Recreation Leader

Hillcrest Health•Lincoln, NE

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Hillcrest Health & Living is looking for a creative and compassionate Recreation Leader to join our team at Hillcrest Firethorn in Lincoln, NE. Hillcrest Firethorn is a modern post-acute rehabilitation and long-term care community located in Lincoln’s Firethorn neighborhood. The community features private rooms, a hospitality-focused environment, and personalized care designed to help guests recover, remain engaged, and live with dignity and purpose. At Hillcrest, our mission is simple: Inspiring people to live their best lives. We are looking for someone who enjoys building meaningful relationships, creating engaging programs, and helping residents experience connection, purpose, and joy.

Requirements

One year of experience in recreational programming with the aging population or a similar setting preferred.
Strong interest in therapeutic recreation, engagement, and quality of life.
Ability to lead group activities and provide individualized resident support.
Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
A calm, flexible, and professional approach when working with residents, families, and customers who may be upset or under stress.
Strong attention to detail and ability to complete required documentation.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while staying organized and positive.
Comfort using technology and resources efficiently and effectively.
Must be able to speak, read, and write English.
Must be able to independently lift up to 35 pounds.
Must be able to perform repetitive sitting, bending, standing, and movement as needed.
Must be flexible, calm, and professional in stressful situations.
Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment with strong attention to detail.
Must be able to utilize technology and resources efficiently and effectively.
Possible exposure to communicable diseases and bodily fluids.

Nice To Haves

A music background or ability to play instruments preferred.
High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
Recreation therapy certification preferred.
Valid driver’s license preferred.

Responsibilities

Develop, implement, and lead group and individual recreation programs based on assessed leisure interests.
Encourage residents to use and maintain their abilities through engaging therapeutic recreation activities.
Complete initial assessments, MDS documentation, IDT summaries, and care plans as needed.
Provide 1:1 programming and sensory enrichment programs based on resident assessments.
Assist residents to and from planned and impromptu recreation programs using safe transport procedures.
Set up materials for recreation programming and independent activities each day.
Clean up materials after programs are complete.
Assist with preparing and scheduling recreation programming, including weekly planning sessions.
Document resident participation after each group or 1:1 session.
Work with volunteers by providing direction, positive reinforcement, mentoring, schedule awareness, and relationship building.
Maintain recreation supplies, including magazines, games, puzzles, and supply closets.
Assist with shopping for designated recreation supplies as needed.
Put up and take down holiday decorations in a timely manner while following company guidelines and fire safety code.
Build positive and professional relationships with residents, families, visitors, volunteers, and team members.