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Career profile

Recreation therapy assistant

a person watering an indoor plant.

Recreation therapy assistants (RTA) work closely with the recreation therapists to increase the quality of life of residents while working towards recreation goals. They offer programs and services tailored to the leisure-related needs of groups and individuals and are part of the multidisciplinary, accredited Continuing Care team. 

What you can expect/get in this role:
  • A rewarding, challenging and dynamic work environment where every day is different; 
  • flexible work options; 
  • start your employment with 4 weeks vacation, plus sick leave and special leave; 
  • competitive pay and benefits, professional growth and leadership learning opportunities; 
  • relocation assistance may be considered; 
  • working in a place voted as one of Canada’s Top 100 Employers; and 
  • a lifestyle that allows you to access our vast backyard and thriving culture and arts scene.
What we do:
  • Work in collaboration with a team to reach resident goals that improve quality of life; 
  • assist with the planning and facilitation of leisure programs; and 
  • provide direction and guidance to facility volunteers.
Job description:
  • Implement therapeutic programs and activities to improve or maintain the physical, mental and emotional well-being of the resident; 
  • plan and conduct outings in the community while adhering to continuing care outing procedures and ensuring the supervision and safety of residents; 
  • provide direction and guidance to volunteers assisting in programs; 
  • prepare for programs by determining and arranging space, ensuring equipment is in safe working order and preparing other required materials related to programs;
  • collaborate with care team in identifying resident needs by attending meetings such as morning report, tailgates, rounds and care conferences; 
  • document relevant information in resident health record and communicates any changes in status and/or progress of resident to the recreation therapist; 
  • generate interests and enthusiasm with residents for active participation in individual and group programs in order to contribute to their well-being; and
  • maintain and organize inventory of program equipment/materials.
Training:
  • Extensive orientation related to our philosophy of care and evidence-based policies, as well as regular educational opportunities to maintain clinical skills and best practices;
  • broad course offerings through our internal professional development system called YG Learn; 
  • support for career and professional growth through internal assignment opportunities; 
  • partial financial support for approved professional development and educational programs.
Recruiting process

Interested applicants apply on our website www.YUKON.ca by creating a career profile.  
At each step of the recruitment process, candidates are notified by email if they have been successful and if they will be moving to the next step: 


Step 1. Resume is reviewed and candidate is notified. 
Step 2. Written assignment (if required). 
Step 3. Interview. 
Step 4. Reference checks. 
Step 5 Conditions of employment.
Step 6. Offer of employment.  

Job requirements:
  • Activity assistant certificate with recent experience; 
  • diploma from an accredited recreation therapy/therapy assistant program, or equivalency; 
  • Class 4 driver’s license; 
  • CRP and AED; 
  • WHMIS; 
  • Food Safe; 
  • criminal records check with vulnerable sector; and
  • TB screening.
Branch profile/spotlight

The Government of Yukon's Continuing Care division is known for its exceptional standards, providing clients with the highest level of care and a healthy workplace for staff. The services offered are among the best in Canada, and Yukon’s long-term care homes ranked second in a recent report issued by the National Institute on Ageing. Continuing Care’s mission is to provide comprehensive care and services, including long-term care, home care, and regional therapy services, to the people of the Yukon.  

Contact 

[email protected]  

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