Rehab Therapy Technician IV
About The Position
The Rehab Therapy Technician IV performs highly complex, senior-level rehabilitative therapy work, assisting in developing, implementing, and delivering planned rehabilitation programs. The role works under general supervision with moderate latitude to use initiative and independent judgment, and assists with assigning or guiding staff and training new rehabilitation staff. This position is located on the Maximum Security Unit at San Antonio State Hospital and may be eligible for additional pay for work performed in maximum security locations. The technician supports rehabilitation programming intended to promote patients’ successful return to the community. Work includes facilitating therapeutic activities and instruction in self-care, independent living, and character development; observing and documenting patient behavior and participation; developing activities and curriculum suited to patient needs; coordinating with treatment teams and community resources; transporting patients; and maintaining equipment, supplies, facilities, and programming schedules. The position may be required to participate in disaster response or continuity-of-operations activities, which may involve a different shift pattern or work location.
Requirements
- Two years of experience working with people who have mental illness or intellectual and developmental disabilities.
- Must have a valid Texas driver license or obtain one within 90 days of hire to drive a state vehicle; applicants with an out-of-state license must provide an original certified driving record, and an eligible driving record is required under HHSC Fleet Management policy.
- Must be certified in CPR or obtain certification within six months of hire.
- Certified Rehab Therapy Technician (PTA) certification may be required, or must be obtained within one year.
- Must pass a fingerprint criminal background check, pre-employment drug screen, and specified registry checks.
- Applicants must be at least 18 years of age for employment at a state-operated facility.
- Compliance with HHSC immunization policy and state hospital immunization procedures is required.
- Knowledge of rehabilitation activity and service methods and techniques, mental illness and mental disabilities, regulations, policies, procedures, and supervising or overseeing others.
- Skill in using computer hardware and software and equipment, tools, and materials used in therapeutic services.
- Ability to use equipment for rehabilitation activities, evaluate patient participation, document progress and behavior, interact effectively with patients, family members, and staff, communicate orally and in writing, and instruct and train others.
Nice To Haves
- Two years of experience developing treatment and support plans for people with mental illness or intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Responsibilities
- Help screen, interview, and onboard qualified Rehabilitation Technicians in coordination with the Director and Assistant Director of Rehabilitation.
- Facilitate and instruct patients in therapeutic activities, including games, recreation, fitness and exercise, swimming, sports, crafts, arts, and team-building activities.
- Teach patients self-care, independent living, and character-building skills, including decision-making, career planning, finances, health and hygiene, manners, and responsibility.
- Maintain relationships with local colleges and community resources and coordinate college visits, guest speakers, and related educational opportunities.
- Observe patients during programming and accurately document their behavior and participation in progress notes.
- Assess patient and group needs and develop or implement appropriate therapeutic activities, workshops, and groups.
- Train and guide Rehabilitation Therapy Technicians in all aspects of their work.
- Operate state vehicles and transport patients as assigned; reserve vans, complete vehicle checks and driving logs, and ensure staff and patients use seat belts.
- Attend department meetings, case formulations, and unit overlaps as needed; provide feedback and organize special projects and events.
- Check, maintain, inventory, store, and arrange replacement of rehabilitation equipment and supplies, obtaining purchase approval from the department director.
- Research and develop curriculum, coordinate planned patient programming for approval, and submit lesson plans to the director.
- Provide feedback to treatment team coordinators and meet with them to identify patient goals and support recovery-plan updates.
- Keep assigned therapeutic facilities and sports fields clean and safe; coordinate facility needs with plant operations and maintain reservations and use schedules.
- Attend work regularly and comply with assigned schedules, which may include rotating schedules, extended shifts, or overtime.
- Participate in agency disaster response, recovery, or Continuity of Operations activities when assigned.
Benefits
- 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees.
- Defined benefit pension plan.
- Generous time-off benefits.
- Opportunities for career advancement.
- Potential additional pay for work performed on maximum security locations.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
No Education Listed
