Recreation Specialist

Little Flower Children and Family Services of New York•Wading River, NY

3d•$45,000 - $50,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Recreation Specialist assists in the planning, organizing and facilitating of therapeutic recreational, educational, social, and wellness activities for youth residing in a Residential Treatment Center (RTC). Under the direct supervision of the Recreation and Volunteer Supervisor, this position supports youth treatment goals by promoting social interaction, physical wellness, emotional regulation, and community engagement in a safe, structured environment. The Recreation Specialist works collaboratively with interdisciplinary treatment teams to enhance youths’ overall quality of life. This position offers a full-time, 35 hours per week schedule based in Wading River, NY. It requires routine travel throughout Suffolk and Nassau County, and occasionally New York City. This position requires flexibility in scheduling and requires weekend and evening work.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required; Associate's or bachelor’s degree in Recreation Therapy, Psychology, Social Work, Human Services, Education, or a related field preferred.
Experience working with children, adolescents, or young adults in behavioral health, residential treatment, healthcare, education, or human services preferred.
Certification in Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) training through Little Flower or Little Flower UFSD. If the candidate does not currently possess this certification, they must be willing to complete training within 60 days of hire.
Valid New York State driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
Current CPR and First Aid certification or ability to obtain upon hire.
Ability to pass required background checks and pre-employment screenings.
Must be available to work Tuesday through Saturday, 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., with flexibility to accommodate scheduling needs as required.
Knowledge of recreational programming and group facilitation techniques.
Understanding of trauma-informed care and person-centered practices.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

Assists in planning, coordinating, and facilitating daily recreational, educational, and therapeutic activities for youth.
Assists in developing activity schedules that meet the physical, emotional, cognitive, social, and developmental needs of youth.
Encourage youth participation in structured recreational programming.
Supervise youth during recreational activities, outings, and special events while maintaining safety and program expectations.
Promote positive social interactions, teamwork, communication, and healthy coping skills through recreation.
Adapt activities to accommodate varying abilities, treatment goals, and youth interests.
Maintain recreational equipment, supplies, and activity areas in a safe and organized manner.
Document participation, observations, and significant youth behaviors in accordance with agency policies.
Communicate youth progress and concerns to the interdisciplinary treatment team.
Ensure compliance with agency policies, accreditation standards, licensing regulations, and safety procedures.
Transport youth to community outings and recreational events as assigned.
Respond appropriately to behavioral or crisis situations using approved intervention techniques.
Work collaboratively with RTC staff to coordinate and schedule recreation activities including on campus and off ground trips.
Provide nursing staff timely notification of off grounds trips to ensure medication is provided.
Perform other duties as assigned.