Embark on a Rewarding Career as a Recreation Assistant with the Miami VA

Are you looking for a career that combines your passion for recreation with a deep commitment to serving those who have served our country? The Miami VA Healthcare System is currently recruiting a dedicated Recreation Assistant to join our Recreation and Creative Arts Therapy (RCAT) service. This is a unique opportunity to provide holistic care and support to our Veterans in a dynamic healthcare setting.

About the Miami VA Healthcare System

The Miami VA Healthcare System is a cornerstone of support for Veterans in South Florida. With facilities ranging from our main medical center to eight community-based outpatient clinics, we provide comprehensive health services. We are recognized as a center of excellence for spinal cord injury research, substance abuse treatment, and cardiac care. By joining our team, you become part of a mission-driven organization dedicated to fulfilling the promise made by President Lincoln to care for our nation's heroes.

Job Responsibilities

As a Recreation Assistant, your day-to-day work will center on enhancing the quality of life for our patients. Key duties include:

Therapeutic Programming: Planning and facilitating individualized and group activities designed for rehabilitation.
Patient Monitoring: Observing patient responses and documenting progress in their treatment plans.
Resource Management: Tracking inventory for recreational supplies and equipment.
Event Coordination: Developing publicity for events and organizing community outings.
Safety and Compliance: Maintaining infection control standards and responding to emergencies as needed.

Comparison: Standard Recreation vs. Therapeutic Recreation

Feature	Standard Recreation	Therapeutic Recreation (RCAT)
Goal	Fun and Leisure	Rehabilitation and Well-being
Assessment	General Interest	Individualized Treatment Plans
Focus	Skill Development	Functional Independence

Requirements

To be eligible for this position, you must be a U.S. citizen and meet specific federal requirements, including:

One year of specialized experience at the GS-5 level or equivalent.
Proof of 52 weeks of time-in-grade if you are a current federal employee.
Successful completion of an online assessment.
Mandatory participation in the annual influenza vaccination program.

Salary Overview

The position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $48,361 to $62,869, reflecting the importance of this role within the healthcare team. Compensation is determined by federal pay scales and considers your professional background.

Benefits

Working for the Department of Veterans Affairs provides an extensive array of benefits, including:

Health Coverage: Access to top-tier health, dental, and vision plans.
Paid Time Off: Earn annual and sick leave as you gain federal experience.
Career Security: Stability within a massive federal network with opportunities for professional growth.
Retirement: Access to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) and federal pension options.

Application Tips

Submitting a federal application can be competitive. Follow these tips to stand out:

Keep it Concise: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or fewer.
Be Specific: Explicitly state the number of hours worked per week for every job listed.
Upload the Right Documents: Do not forget your SF-50 and academic transcripts if using education to qualify.
Proofread: Errors in your application can delay your consideration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the closing date for this application? A: The announcement closes on August 11, 2026.

Q: Is a background check required? A: Yes, all selected applicants are subject to a background investigation.

Q: Can I request a reasonable accommodation for the assessments? A: Yes, instructions are provided during the application process for those needing accommodations under the Rehabilitation Act.

If you have a heart for service and the skills to create meaningful, therapeutic experiences for others, we encourage you to apply. This position at the Miami VA Healthcare System offers more than just a paycheck; it offers the chance to make a lasting difference in the lives of American Veterans. Start your application today to take the next step in your public service career.

Why This Recreation Assistant Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact on the lives of our nation's heroes by joining the Miami VA Healthcare System as a Recreation Assistant.

Recreation Assistant Job Overview

The Miami VA Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated Recreation Assistant to join the Recreation and Creative Arts Therapy (RCAT) team. This role is pivotal in providing therapeutic activities that improve the physical, emotional, and social well-being of Veterans. You will facilitate both group and individual programming, using art and music therapy concepts to foster independence, confidence, and improved life satisfaction for our patients.

Requirements for Recreation Assistant

U.S. Citizenship.
Completion of a 1-year probationary period.
Ability to work weekends and federal holidays.
Must be able to pass a background/security investigation.
Annual seasonal influenza vaccination or authorized exemption.
One year of specialized experience at the GS-5 level or equivalent.
Possession of a valid, REAL ID-compliant form of identification.

Preferred Qualifications for Recreation Assistant

Experience in group leadership or counseling within recreational programs.
Background in organizing activities for community centers, parks, or resorts.
Knowledge of record-keeping and inventory management for recreational equipment.
Graduate-level education in a field directly related to therapeutic recreation.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
✓Generous paid annual and sick leave
✓Retirement savings plans including the Thrift Savings Plan
✓Professional development and training opportunities
✓Supportive and mission-driven work environment

💡 How to Apply Recreation Assistant Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Recreation Assistant Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume that is no more than two pages.
Review and answer all required online application questionnaires.
Upload required documentation, including SF-50 forms and transcripts.
Submit your application package before the closing date of August 11, 2026.
Complete any assigned USA Hire assessments if prompted by the system.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume includes month and year dates for all previous employment.
Clearly define hours worked per week for all roles to verify experience.
Focus your resume on results-oriented language and skills relevant to recreation therapy.
Verify your SF-50 documents clearly demonstrate 52 weeks of time-in-grade.
Use a professional font and 0.5-inch margins for your resume.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of a Recreation Assistant?

You will assist in planning, facilitating, and monitoring therapeutic recreational activities that support the physical and psychiatric rehabilitation of Veteran patients.

Is this position eligible for telework?

No, this is an onsite position requiring interaction with patients, so telework is not authorized.

What are the working hours for this role?

The schedule is Friday through Tuesday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, including weekends and holidays.

Recreation Assistant Job

Veterans Health Administration