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Recreation Therapist

Veterans Health Administration · Department of Veterans Affairs
📍 San Diego, California 💰 $85307 – $110905/yr

Quick Facts

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Job Summary

The purpose of this position is to provide rehabilitation and care to inpatient and outpatient Veterans and Active Duty Service Members with SCI/D who may also present with multiple diagnoses, including traumatic brain injury, amputation, respiratory disorders, neurological disorders, orthopedic conditions, psychiatric diagnoses, and chronic cardiovascular diseases.

Key Responsibilities

Duties include, but are not limited to: The SCI/D RT conducts, analyzes, interprets, and reports assessment data across functional domains, including cognitive, sensory, social, affective, physical, and leisure. Comprehensive assessments are conducted using the standard four-step RT process of assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation.

Based upon assessment data and in collaboration with interdisciplinary stakeholders, the therapist develops individualized, evidence-based treatment plans with measurable therapeutic goals and objectives, including defined scope, duration, and treatment approaches for patients with complex conditions such as spinal cord injury and disorders, traumatic brain injury (TBI), polytrauma, amputation, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Through activity and task analysis, behavioral interventions, and therapeutic procedures, the RT designs individualized treatment interventions to reduce stress, anxiety, and maladaptive behavior; support recovery of motor function and reasoning abilities; build confidence; and develop compensatory strategies to facilitate community reintegration.

Techniques and strategies may include, but are not limited to: development of positive behavioral patterns; relaxation and stress reduction; lifestyle alteration; social skills training; self-esteem development; positive relationship building; motor learning and training; anger and pain management; risk identification; recovery support; adjustment to disability; and coping with grief and loss.

Resourcefulness is exercised in implementing individualized, effective therapeutic methods including, but not limited to: assistive and adaptive technology; cognitive behavioral skills; aquatic therapy; fitness and wellness programming; community accessibility, reintegration, and transition planning; and adapted sports and leisure development. The RT reviews recreation therapy consults and conducts comprehensive evaluations.

Patient needs are evaluated for additional, alternative, or termination of services, and intervention plans are monitored for effectiveness with modifications made as needed. The SCI/D RT is a designated purchase cardholder and complies with Federal and VA Acquisition Regulations, policies, and local procedures.

Responsibilities include reconciling purchase card charges within established time limits, checking the Excluded Parties Listing System prior to making awards, inputting IFCAP orders within one workday of purchase using the detailed order option, and maintaining procurement and voucher documentation for six years and three months.

Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 7:30 am to 4:00 pm (Subject to change based upon the needs of the agency.) Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 000000 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized

Requirements & Education

Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education.

For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.

Contact

Rosezanna.Daker@va.gov · (520)780-6862

Frequently Asked Questions

Which agency is hiring for this position?

This position is with Veterans Health Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs.

What is the salary for this position?

The posted pay range is $85307 – $110905/yr.

What security clearance is required?

This position requires a Other security clearance.

What is the application deadline?

Applications close on 2026-09-04.

Who is eligible to apply?

This position is open under the 'Public' hiring path.

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