About the opportunity
The Recreation Therapist at the VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System plays a vital role in the Recreation Therapy Service, focusing on the rehabilitation and therapeutic care of Veterans. The incumbent is responsible for conducting patient evaluations, analyzing assessment data to develop individualized treatment plans with measurable goals, and reviewing patient progress. The role involves providing direct patient care, collaborating with interdisciplinary team members, and documenting behavioral observations and intervention outcomes. The therapist also assists in the clinical training of Recreation Therapy interns. This position requires a commitment to the Whole Health System of care, which empowers Veterans to take charge of their health and well-being through personalized health plans.
Salary and benefits
- Competitive federal salary range of $52,688 to $101,375 per year
- Federal employee benefits package including health insurance and retirement plans
- Potential for annual leave accrual credit based on prior work or military service
- Opportunities for professional development within the Veterans Health Administration
Who can apply?
- Must be a United States citizen
- Must be proficient in spoken and written English
- Bachelor's degree or higher in therapeutic recreation or recreation/leisure with an emphasis in therapeutic recreation, approved by the NCTRC
- Alternatively, a bachelor's degree or higher in any field plus certification as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) by the NCTRC
- Must hold current CTRS certification (unless qualifying under specific temporary graduate appointment authority)
- Selective Service registration required for males born after December 31, 1959
Required documents
- Resume including month and year for all previous employment
- Copy of official transcript if using education to qualify
- Proof of CTRS certification
- SF-50 (for current or former federal employees)
- DD-214 or proof of military service (if applicable)
- SF-15 and supporting documentation for 10-point veterans' preference (if applicable)
- Cover letter (optional)
When to apply
- Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM ET on November 9, 2026
How to apply
- Create or log in to a USAJOBS account
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire
- Upload all required supporting documentation
- Submit the complete application package through the USAJOBS portal before the deadline
Additional information
- This is a permanent, full-time position in the Excepted Service
- Work schedule is Tuesday through Saturday with rotating holidays
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a mandatory condition of employment
- A 1 or 2-year trial period is required for new appointees
- This position is not eligible for telework or virtual work
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Professionals with a background in physical rehabilitation or long-term care, as these are preferred experience areas
- Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists (CTRS) looking to work within a multidisciplinary healthcare team
- Individuals passionate about the 'Whole Health' model of care and supporting the well-being of Veterans
- Candidates who thrive in a structured clinical environment with clear evaluation and treatment protocols
What should you think carefully about?
- The position requires a Tuesday-Saturday work schedule, which may impact weekend availability
- Applicants must be prepared to undergo a background and security investigation
- The role is strictly on-site in Cleveland, Ohio, with no options for remote or hybrid work
- Mandatory annual influenza vaccination is a condition of employment for all VHA health care personnel
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This role offers a stable, long-term career path within the federal government, ideal for those seeking to specialize in clinical recreation therapy within a large-scale healthcare system. It provides the opportunity to gain experience in evidence-based therapeutic interventions while directly impacting the quality of life for Veterans. For early-career therapists, the structured supervision and interdisciplinary collaboration offer a strong foundation for clinical practice.
Our take
This is an excellent opportunity for certified recreation therapists who are committed to public service and the specific mission of the Department of Veterans Affairs. It is less suitable for those seeking flexible work arrangements or those who are not currently certified as a CTRS, as certification is a core requirement for the position.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verifiedSource: USAJOBS
