What are the responsibilities and job description for the DSHS BHA Recreation and Athletic Specialist position at Washington State Department of Social and Health Services?
Description
Recreation and Athletic Specialist 2
Join our team as a Recreation and Athletic Specialist 2 at our newest behavioral health treatment campus, Maple Lane, near Centralia, WA.
Behavioral Health Treatment Center Maple Lane offers innovative treatment for residents who are civilly committed, in need of competency restoration, or adjudicated not guilty by reason of mental diagnosis. Each residential unit helps shape the future of behavioral health, aligning with Washington State’s vision of community-based care. Our residential units are built on the vision of community-based care—offering innovative treatment in a smaller setting, keeping residents connected to their families and support networks.
As a Recreation and Athletic Specialist 2 , you will lead a range of recreational and therapeutic activities aimed at improving the well-being of our residents. In this role, you will plan, organize, and supervise fitness, music, hobby programs, and special events while ensuring safety and positive interactions. You will also guide residents in achieving social, cognitive, emotional, and physical improvements through recreation. Key responsibilities include assessing individual needs, supporting residents in rehabilitation goals, and providing health and wellness education.
Maple Lane is a key business unit of DSHS's Behavioral Health Administration, where our dedicated staff offers patients enriching opportunities and experiences outside the hospital setting, preparing them for a smooth transition back into the community. This is a great opportunity to be a team member as BHA modernizes and enhances behavioral health treatment in Washington State.
Opportunities performed on-site at this work location at least three days a week may be eligible for an additional 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary.
Some Of What You'll Do
Recreational therapy includes providing individualized assessments and treatment which are goal oriented and directed towards rehabilitation and modification of specific physical, emotional, mental or social behaviors.
Preferred Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities
We Partner With People To Access Support, Care, And Resources. DSHS Employees Make a Difference In WA State Every Day By Supporting Sustainable Recovery, Independence, And Wellness. See Why People Like You Choose Careers At DSHS
Questions? Please contact jesus.hernandez@dshs.wa.gov or call the main Talent Acquisition line at 360-725-5810 and reference job number 2025-00956
The Department of Social and Health Services’ (DSHS) vision that People find human services to shape their own lives requires that we come together with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work. It is crucial to our agency’s vision that you bring an equity, anti-racism, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to create greater access and affirming representation of the communities we serve, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with physical, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security.
Supplemental Information
Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the job. This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle.
Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protected veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay or genetic information. Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the Recruiter at (360) 725-5810. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.
E-Verify® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security
Recreation and Athletic Specialist 2
Join our team as a Recreation and Athletic Specialist 2 at our newest behavioral health treatment campus, Maple Lane, near Centralia, WA.
Behavioral Health Treatment Center Maple Lane offers innovative treatment for residents who are civilly committed, in need of competency restoration, or adjudicated not guilty by reason of mental diagnosis. Each residential unit helps shape the future of behavioral health, aligning with Washington State’s vision of community-based care. Our residential units are built on the vision of community-based care—offering innovative treatment in a smaller setting, keeping residents connected to their families and support networks.
As a Recreation and Athletic Specialist 2 , you will lead a range of recreational and therapeutic activities aimed at improving the well-being of our residents. In this role, you will plan, organize, and supervise fitness, music, hobby programs, and special events while ensuring safety and positive interactions. You will also guide residents in achieving social, cognitive, emotional, and physical improvements through recreation. Key responsibilities include assessing individual needs, supporting residents in rehabilitation goals, and providing health and wellness education.
Maple Lane is a key business unit of DSHS's Behavioral Health Administration, where our dedicated staff offers patients enriching opportunities and experiences outside the hospital setting, preparing them for a smooth transition back into the community. This is a great opportunity to be a team member as BHA modernizes and enhances behavioral health treatment in Washington State.
Opportunities performed on-site at this work location at least three days a week may be eligible for an additional 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary.
Some Of What You'll Do
- Plan, lead, document and evaluate recreational activities and resident's progress.
- Supervise athletic, weightlifting, fitness, music, and hobby programs, as well as special recreation events.
- Conduct all recreational activities safely and securely.
- Provide health and wellness information and encourage sportsmanship and positive interactions.
- Provide guidance and counseling to residents regarding recreation programs.
- Assist in securing resources and equipment for designated areas.
- Facilitate improvement of social, cognitive, emotional, and physical functioning.
- Identify specific resident needs, treatment, and rehabilitation goals and how to achieve them through recreation sources.
- Attend recreation-based staff-escorted community outings.
- A bachelor's degree involving major study in either (a) recreation or therapeutic recreation, (b) music, drama, or physical education or (c) psychology, sociology, or education with a minor in recreation, physical education, music or drama
- And, one year of paid, professional recreation experience
Recreational therapy includes providing individualized assessments and treatment which are goal oriented and directed towards rehabilitation and modification of specific physical, emotional, mental or social behaviors.
Preferred Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities
- Knowledge of behavioral health and recovery principles.
- Ability to plan, organize, and lead recreation programs and activities.
- Leadership skills that allow you to effectively instruct others in a way that promotes a positive learning environment.
- Ability to work within a team, and resolve personal conflicts in a calm, non-threatening manner.
- Ability to respond appropriately and cope with occasionally abusive, harassing, or threatening language and/or aggressive behavior from residents.
- Knowledgeable of psychiatric symptoms.
- Demonstrate a capacity for compassion and curiosity towards residents.
We Partner With People To Access Support, Care, And Resources. DSHS Employees Make a Difference In WA State Every Day By Supporting Sustainable Recovery, Independence, And Wellness. See Why People Like You Choose Careers At DSHS
Questions? Please contact jesus.hernandez@dshs.wa.gov or call the main Talent Acquisition line at 360-725-5810 and reference job number 2025-00956
The Department of Social and Health Services’ (DSHS) vision that People find human services to shape their own lives requires that we come together with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work. It is crucial to our agency’s vision that you bring an equity, anti-racism, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to create greater access and affirming representation of the communities we serve, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with physical, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security.
Supplemental Information
Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the job. This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle.
Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protected veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay or genetic information. Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the Recruiter at (360) 725-5810. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.
E-Verify® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security
