Become a Recreation Therapist at the VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System
If you are a compassionate clinician dedicated to improving patient outcomes through evidence-based recreation therapy, the Department of Veterans Affairs invites you to join our mission. The VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System is currently recruiting for a motivated Recreation Therapist to join the Recreation Therapy Service. You will be instrumental in helping Veterans navigate their health journeys through specialized, individualized care plans.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will play a critical part in the rehabilitation process. Your core duties include:
- Conducting comprehensive clinical evaluations.
- Analyzing data to create individualized treatment plans with measurable goals.
- Providing direct patient care tailored to the patient’s diagnosis and physical functional status.
- Documenting progress, behavioral observations, and clinical outcomes.
- Collaborating with an interdisciplinary team to facilitate the best possible patient recovery.
- Guiding clinical interns and participating in team consultation sessions.
Comparison of Grade Levels
| Feature | GS-7 | GS-9 | GS-11 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Experience Requirement | Basic requirements met | 1 year at GS-7 or Master's degree | 1 year at GS-9 |
| Scope of Practice | Entry/Developing | Expanded knowledge | Full performance level |
| Supervision | Higher degree of supervision | General supervision | Independent practice |
Requirements
To be considered for this position, you must:
- Be a United States Citizen.
- Possess a degree in therapeutic recreation from an accredited institution.
- Hold a valid CTRS certification.
- Maintain proficiency in both written and spoken English.
- Pass a background security check.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive federal salary range of $52,688 to $101,375 per year, commensurate with your experience, education, and assigned GS grade level.
Benefits
Working for the VA provides access to a robust benefits package that supports both your career and personal life, including:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- Federal retirement benefits, including a pension and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- Career advancement opportunities within the federal system.
Application Tips
- Customize Your Resume: Clearly document your experience in rehabilitation and long-term care.
- Organize Documents: Ensure all SF-50s and transcripts are readily available before starting the application.
- Answer Honestly: The online questionnaire is your primary assessment tool; provide accurate reflections of your clinical skills.
- Check Deadlines: Submit your application well before the November 9th deadline to avoid technical issues.
Serving those who served is a uniquely rewarding experience. If you are ready to bring your therapeutic expertise to a dynamic, mission-driven team in Cleveland, we encourage you to apply. Help us provide the exceptional health care our Veterans deserve.
Why This Recreation Therapist Job Matters
Empower our nation's heroes through therapeutic innovation: Join the VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System as a Recreation Therapist and make a lasting impact on Veteran well-being.
Recreation Therapist Job Overview
The VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated Recreation Therapist to provide specialized, compassionate care. In this role, you will work within a comprehensive health system to develop and implement therapeutic interventions that improve the physical, mental, and social functional levels of Veterans. You will join a multidisciplinary team at the Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, a hub of excellence in clinical care, research, and rehabilitation.
Requirements for Recreation Therapist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Bachelor's degree or higher in therapeutic recreation or a related field approved by the NCTRC
- Current certification as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) by the NCTRC
- Successful completion of a background/security investigation
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Must meet physical requirements per VA Directive 5019
Preferred Qualifications for Recreation Therapist
- Experience in physical rehabilitation
- Experience in long-term care settings
- Proven ability to adapt assessment tools for complex diagnoses
- Strong clinical reasoning skills and experience with evidence-based techniques
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Generous retirement plans including FERS
- ✓Paid annual leave and sick leave accrual
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and research participation
- ✓Supportive work environment within a national medical referral center
💡 How to Apply Recreation Therapist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Recreation Therapist Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume and supporting documents (SF-50, transcripts, DD-214, certifications).
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date.
- Monitor your email for status notifications and potential interview requests.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes clear, specific dates (month and year) for all previous work experience.
- If using education to qualify, your transcript is mandatory.
- Current federal employees must provide their most recent SF-50; if applicable, provide an older SF-50 to prove eligibility for a higher grade.
- Tailor your resume to highlight the specific KSAs mentioned in the job announcement.
- Double-check your application package for completeness before the deadline, as omissions may impact your eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the grade range for this position?
This position is open at the GS-7 to GS-11 levels, with a full performance level of GS-11.
Is telework available for this role?
No, this is a patient-facing clinical position and is not eligible for telework.
What certifications are required?
Applicants must be a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) certified by the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC).
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
What is the work schedule?
The schedule includes Tuesday through Saturday with rotating shifts and holidays.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System serves over 124,000 Veterans across 21 counties. Our hub, the Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, is a national leader in clinical excellence, providing everything from acute psychiatric emergency care to advanced research through the Cleveland FES Center. We focus on a 'Whole Health' approach, ensuring that every Veteran receives personalized care that considers their entire well-being—body, mind, and spirit.