Recreation Specialist- Youth Residential

About the role

Provide recreational and social programming for children and adolescents with autism, developmental and/or behavioral disabilities in Devereux Pennsylvania Children’s Services residential programs located in West Chester, PA. Collaborate with clinical and educational staff to deliver quality care, implement PW‑PBIS principles, and serve as a positive role model while teaching life skills.

Responsibilities

• Plan, implement and oversee social and recreational programs for students with autism, developmental and/or behavioral disabilities.
• Track, record and implement effective recreational activities using established procedures.
• Schedule use of gymnasium, pool and other recreational areas.
• Schedule, oversee and implement special events and activities (e.g., Special Olympics, Fall Festival, Summer Picnic) and maintain appropriate documentation.
• Maintain supplies and inventory for unit activities.
• Design, create and implement recreational and social activities for children/adolescents with intellectual & developmental disabilities/autism diagnosis and behavioral health needs.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field (preferred).
• At least three years’ experience working directly with individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities and behavior disorders providing recreational and leisure activities.
• Proficient computer skills; mastery of Microsoft Office applications.
• Experience with data collection/analyzing platforms (Radar, Pro‑Filer or similar internal/external software).
• Strong organizational skills.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize, manage multiple tasks simultaneously, and adhere to established guidelines.
• Valid driver’s license must be maintained.

Skills

• Creativity in planning activities.
• Knowledge of PBIS, ABA, TIC, Safe and Positive Approaches, DBT, and IEP frameworks.

Benefits

• Quality low‑cost benefits with 30‑day eligibility waiting period.
• Student loan debt assistance.
• ASCEND Career Accelerator Program (loan repayment or funding for continued education).
• Comprehensive health and welfare program (medical, dental, prescription, preventative care, mental health services) available after 30 days.
• Tuition reimbursement and continuing education assistance.
• Generous time‑off accruing from day one.
• 403(b) retirement plan with matching contribution.
• Voluntary/employee‑paid supplemental life and accident coverage.
• Employee assistance / work‑life balance program.

Pay

$22.11 – $25.20 per hour for candidates without recreation certification; $27.00 – $30.78 per hour with therapeutic recreation certification.

Schedule

Consistent schedule of 12 p.m.–8 p.m. on school days, shifting to 9 a.m.–5 p.m. during school breaks; required to work two weekend shifts per month.