Lead with Purpose: Supervisory Recreation Therapist at VA Augusta
Are you a seasoned clinician ready to step into a leadership role? The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Supervisory Recreation Therapist at the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center in Augusta, Georgia. This is a vital position responsible for shaping the future of therapeutic programs for our nation's Veterans.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will lead the Recreation and Creative Arts Therapy Department. Your core duties include:
- Personnel Leadership: Mentoring and supervising recreation therapists, arts therapists, and support staff.
- Administrative Management: Defining operational procedures and managing fiscal and equipment resources.
- Quality Improvement: Developing and maintaining performance improvement plans in accordance with Joint Commission, Ascellon, and CARF standards.
- Clinical Direction: Implementing evidence-based practices to guide staff and improve patient outcomes.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet several mandatory criteria, including:
- Citizenship of the United States.
- Professional certification (CTRS, MT-BC, or ATR) pertinent to the specific therapy field.
- A bachelor's or master's degree from an accredited institution in an approved major.
- Proficiency in English and completion of background checks.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $106,437 - $138,370 |
| Location | Augusta, Georgia |
| Schedule | 7:30am - 4:00pm, Mon-Fri |
| Closing Date | September 8, 2026 |
Benefits Overview
The VA offers a competitive federal benefits package, including robust retirement options, comprehensive health insurance, and structured annual leave accrual based on your years of service.
Application Tips
- Use the Standardized Resume: Download the specific VA clinical resume document provided in the announcement.
- Documentation is Key: Ensure all transcripts and certifications are uploaded as clear, legible copies.
- Detail Your Experience: Do not leave gaps in your work history descriptions. Clearly articulate your supervisory and clinical achievements.
This role offers a unique opportunity to combine your clinical skills with your ability to lead. By joining the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, you contribute directly to the recovery and quality of life of our Veterans. If you are ready to make a significant professional impact, review the requirements and submit your application today.
Why This Supervisory Recreation Therapist Job Matters
Lead a mission-driven team at the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center and make a tangible impact on the lives of our nation's heroes through innovative therapeutic recreation programs.
Supervisory Recreation Therapist Job Overview
The VA Augusta Health Care System is seeking an experienced, compassionate leader to fill the role of Supervisory Recreation Therapist. Based in Augusta, Georgia, you will oversee the Recreation and Creative Arts Therapy Department within the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Service. This leadership position is ideal for a dedicated clinician ready to manage administrative operations, mentor a diverse team of therapists, and ensure that our Veterans receive the highest quality of whole-person care.
Requirements for Supervisory Recreation Therapist
- Must be a United States Citizen.
- Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
- Completion of a background and security investigation.
- Must maintain required certifications or registrations (CTRS, MT-BC, or ATR).
- Must complete a 1 or 2-year trial period.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a mandatory condition of employment.
- Must meet specific educational requirements in therapeutic recreation, recreation/leisure, music therapy, or art therapy as defined by agency standards.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Recreation Therapist
- 5 or more years of experience in supervising and mentoring recreation/creative arts therapists.
- Proven track record in designing, implementing, and evaluating therapeutic recreation programs.
- In-depth knowledge of regulatory standards, ethical practices, and CARF accreditation processes.
- Strong proficiency in quality improvement methodologies.
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex clinical cases with independence.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal leave accrual based on total service years.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and life insurance options.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Access to ongoing clinical training and professional development.
- ✓Stable, mission-driven career environment within the Veterans Health Administration.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Recreation Therapist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Recreation Therapist Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the required occupational questionnaire via the provided link.
- Prepare your resume using the standard Clinical Resume Document template provided by the VA.
- Upload all necessary supporting documents, including transcripts, professional certifications, and SF-50s if applicable.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date of September 8, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and thorough in your resume; the hiring team cannot make assumptions about your experience.
- Ensure your professional certification documents are current and clearly legible.
- Submit the standardized VA clinical resume document as instructed to ensure compliance with the two-page upload limitation.
- Monitor your email for status updates after the announcement closes.
- Verify your eligibility requirements before starting the application to save time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of the Supervisory Recreation Therapist role?
The role focuses on the administration and management of the Recreation and Creative Arts Therapy Department, including supervising staff, setting clinical performance standards, and ensuring high-quality therapeutic care for Veterans.
Is telework an option for this position?
No, this is an on-site, non-virtual position located at the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center in Augusta, Georgia.
What happens if I have foreign education?
Foreign education must be evaluated by a private organization specializing in credential interpretation to ensure it is equivalent to conventional U.S. educational programs.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Providing care to millions of Veterans, the VHA is committed to a "whole health" approach, ensuring that every patient receives compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to their unique needs.