Recreational Therapist - Correctional Health Services

State of Utah Office of the Governor • Salt Lake City, UT

8d • Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Health and Human Services, Correctional Health Services Division, is hiring a full-time, in-office Recreational Therapist at the Utah State Correctional Facility. The role supports the physical, social, and emotional well-being of offenders through recreational therapy. Employment is contingent on successfully passing DHHS and Utah Department of Corrections background screenings and pre-employment drug testing. The position is open until filled and may close at any time.

Requirements

• Have and maintain national certification and state licensure requirements.
• Be licensed as a Therapeutic Recreation Specialist in Utah.
• Follow the practices and requirements of the Recreational Therapy Practice Act and Recreational Therapy Practice Rule.
• Speak clearly, concisely, and effectively; actively listen to and understand verbally presented information and ideas.
• Observe details at close range and at a distance.
• Observe physical conditions, behavior, or surroundings for potential areas of concern or inappropriate activity.
• Hear sounds that may indicate potential areas of concern or inappropriate activity.
• Successfully pass a criminal history/background check and pre-employment drug test.
• Ability to stand, walk over rough surfaces, bend, crouch, stoop, stretch, reach, and lift moderately heavy items up to 50 pounds repeatedly and/or for long periods.

Nice To Haves

• Passion for recreational therapy with diverse populations, including all genders, people with mental illness or substance use needs, geriatric populations, and offenders.
• Strong boundaries.
• Enthusiasm, flexibility, and willingness to try unfamiliar activities.
• Some experience in recreational therapy, including internships.
• A good foundation in writing programs and goals for people with recreational needs.
• Maintain credentials as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist with NCTRC.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and perform recreational therapy assessments.
• Implement evidence-based recreational therapy programs.
• Maintain documentation to comply with licensure, state, and federal requirements.
• Engage with administrative processes to encourage recreation and leisure programs within the department.
• Identify clients’ developmental needs and coach, mentor, or otherwise help them improve their knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Evaluate treatment effectiveness.
• Oversee the appropriate use of equipment and facilities.
• Maintain and/or repair tools and equipment.

Benefits

• Job stability within a well-established organization.
• Career growth, including opportunities to develop skills and pursue leadership within a large organization.
• Meaningful work contributing to a community service.
• Supportive work environment emphasizing cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.
• Work/life balance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: No Education Listed