Therapeutic Recreation Specialist - Inclusion

The City of Norfolk's Department of Parks & Recreation is seeking a Therapeutic Recreation Specialist to assist in providing inclusion services and training in all recreation centers. As well as program and implement therapeutic recreational activities to meet the needs of individuals with physical, mental, emotional, intellectual, and developmental disabilities. Norfolk's Department of Parks & Recreation is proud to announce it has been awarded national accreditation by the Commission for Accreditation of Parks and Recreation Agencies. This ensures we will continue to provide quality recreational services that enrich the lives of Norfolk's residents.  Department Starting Salary:$42,629Essential functions include but are not limited to: *

Plans, coordinates, implements, supervises & evaluates therapeutic recreation programs for participants with varying disabilities. * Conducts intake assessments, completes weekly progress notes, and develops discharge summaries on therapeutic recreation program participants. * Develops, implements, and evaluates individual modifications for patrons who have barriers/challenges participating successfully in general recreation programs (ie. after school or camp settings). * Conducts/supervises program and facility assessments to assure that a barrier-free setting is established and assist staff in problem solving modification issues. * Provides training on inclusion, recreation programming, disabilities, policies & procedures, and team building activities for full and part time staff. * Provides varying levels of assistance such as resolving issues, addressing physical, social, and emotional needs and handling emergencies as needed. * Represents the department at community resource fairs. * Supervises 560-hr. internships. * Assists Senior Recreation Supervisor II with administrative duties as needed. Individual assignments will be determined by the supervisor based on the current workloads and department needs. * Operates 15-passenger, wheelchair accessible van and transports participants to and from programs when necessary.        Travels to other recreation centers when needed. * Monitors budget expenditures, assists with the budget preparation and makes recommendations by estimating materials and supplies required for programs and special projects, makes purchases, and maintains equipment and supplies. * Responds to patron inquiries regarding programs. * Attends FAPT (Family Assessment Planning Team) Meetings with Norfolk Department of Human Services as a resource for Therapeutic Recreation/Parks & Recreation * Operates a computer and a variety of software including Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Power Point, and Outlook). * Operates the facility in the absence of the supervisor. * This position requires the ability to problem solve, think independently, and work in a team environment.  As well as, excellent inter-personal, communication, organizational and customer service skills and the ability to effectively interact with and contribute to the growth and development of diverse citizen groups.Work requires broad knowledge in a general profession or technical field. Knowledge is normally acquired through four years of college resulting in a Bachelor's degree or equivalentThe preferred candidate will possess:* A Bachelor's degree in Therapeutic Recreation * Experience programming in a Therapeutic Recreation setting. * Extensive knowledge of Therapeutic Recreation and Inclusion required. * Experience in providing Therapeutic Recreation programming for people with disabilities. * Experience in providing Inclusion/Modification Plans in a recreation setting. * Valid Driver's License may be required depending on assignment. * Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS).* CPR/First Aid Certification.*  AED Training within six months of employment.Work Location: 180 E Evans St, Norfolk, VA 23503, USAWork Hours:  Monday to Sunday; 6:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.; not to exceed 40 hours per week; flexible hours will apply including weekends, holidays, and special eventsSigning Bonus: This position is eligible for a one-time $5,000 signing bonus for applications received on or after February 22, 2022. The signing bonus will be paid in two (2) increments: $2,500 upon completion of 60 days of employment, and $2,500 upon completion of your probationary period. To receive the signing bonus, you must be an active employee in good standing.