Therapeutic Educational and Recreational Specialist

Oak Hill/Gilead • Waterbury, CT

2d

About The Position

Oak Hill is seeking a Therapeutic Educational and Recreational Specialist (TRES) to provide assessments and ongoing evaluations that support meaningful, integrated daily activities within a participant's desired community. This role employs therapeutic recreation, leisure, and educational activities to enhance the physical, emotional, and social well-being of individuals with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities (ID/DD) and other barriers to community integration. Oak Hill has been enhancing the lives of people with disabilities since 1893 and is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Recreational Therapy, Therapeutic Recreation, Art Therapy, or a related field (e.g., Speech-Language Pathology, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy).
• 2 years of professional experience working with individuals with ID/DD.
• Certification as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS).
• Knowledge of Medicaid and DDS guidelines, including billing practices.
• Strong skills in organization, communication, and interpersonal relations.
• Experience with inclusionary practices and advocacy.
• Creative, compassionate, and patient approach to therapeutic work.

Responsibilities

• Develop, plan, and implement individualized therapeutic programs tailored to participants’ needs, interests, and abilities.
• Conduct detailed assessments to identify participants’ strengths, challenges, and preferences.
• Lead group and one-on-one therapeutic activities, including arts and crafts, music, sports, educational experiences, and community outings.
• Promote social integration and community engagement for participants.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including healthcare providers, family members, guardians, and agency personnel.
• Contribute to the creation of comprehensive Individualized Service Plans (ISPs).
• Track and document participants’ progress, making adjustments to therapeutic plans as needed.
• Maintain Medicaid-compliant records and prepare required reports.
• Provide training and guidance to caregivers and staff on therapeutic techniques and best practices.
• Advocate for participants’ inclusion and quality of life improvements.
• Ensure all activities align with Medicaid and Department of Developmental Services (DDS) guidelines.
• Stay updated on industry trends, best practices, and regulatory standards.
• Perform additional responsibilities as assigned by management.

Benefits

• Generous Paid Vacation, Sick, and Personal Time, Plus Paid Holidays
• Affordable Medical, Dental, and Vision Benefits (Oak Hill funds 50% of your medical deductible in an HSA)
• 403(b) Retirement Plan (Oak Hill contributes 9.5% at no cost to you)
• Free and Low-Cost Life Insurance Options and Free Long-term Disability Insurance
• Excellent Professional Development Opportunities; Tuition Reimbursement; Career Pathways
• Staff Recognition and Appreciation
• Paid Training, Education, and Certification as necessary

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level