Recreation Therapist

Summary This Recreation Therapist position is in the Sensory & Physical Rehabilitation Service at the VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare Systems – located at the Leeds, MA location. This position is full‑time at 40 hours per week. Qualifications Basic Requirements United States Citizenship; English Language Proficiency; education per NCTRC approval; certification as CTRS. Education Bachelor’s degree in therapeutic recreation or related field approved by NCTRC, or any bachelor’s degree plus CTRS certification. Certification cannot be waived. Certification Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) by NCTRC required. Temporary appointment possible under 38 U.S.C. § 7405(c)(2)(B) for up to two years. Grandfathering Provision Employees already certified when new standard effective may be grandfathered, subject to rules for promotion and re‑appointment. Grade Determinations GS‑7 requires no additional experience; GS‑9 requires at least one year of experience or master’s degree in recreation therapy; GS‑11 requires at least one year of experience at the next lower grade level and advanced KSAs. Physical Requirements Standing or walking for prolonged periods, frequent bending, reaching, stooping, stretching, lifting and repositioning veterans, pushing or pulling heavy objects, and occasional driving of government vehicles. Requires good dexterity for intricate therapy procedures. Duties Aligns under the Sensory & Physical Rehabilitation Service team to provide care to veterans with various disabilities. Conducts assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of therapy services; constructs evidence‑based interventions. Provides direct patient care and collaborates in interdisciplinary treatment planning. Reviews consults, conducts comprehensive evaluations, and develops individualized treatment plans with measurable goals. Recommends adaptations, modifications, and assistive technology as needed. Work schedule Tuesday‑Saturday; shift hours determined by supervisor. No telework or virtual work. Benefits Competitive salary with regular increases; possible step rate adjustments for advanced qualifications. Paid Time Off: 37‑50 days per year, including annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays. Parental Leave: Up to 12 weeks paid after 12 months of employment. Child Care Subsidy: Up to 25% of eligible costs for full‑time employees with family income below $144,000. Retirement: Traditional federal pension (5 years vesting) and 401(k) with up to 5% VA contributions. Health, vision, dental, and life insurance available; long‑term care options available. Administrative Information Veterans' preference does not apply to internal or other current permanent federal agency employees. Applicants must submit SF‑50 and other required documents. The position is within the Excepted Service; bargaining unit not applicable. Employee may be required to travel to other VA campuses and CBOCs. #J-18808-Ljbffr