Recreational Therapist – Adaptive Aquatics Coordinator

Company Description Swim Angelfish is a specialized provider of aquatic therapy and adaptive swim training with over 25 years of experience in the field. The organization’s mission is to help children of all abilities become comfortable and safe in the water, while building confidence and independence in recreational activities. Swim Angelfish operates programs in New Hampshire, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York, offering aquatic therapy and Adaptive Swim Whisperer lessons for swimmers with Autism, anxiety, sensory, motor, and other challenges. The organization also delivers online training courses that teach aquatic professionals how to assess, identify, and implement strategies and techniques for adaptive swim and aquatic therapy. In addition, Swim Angelfish shares free resources, blogs, and a YouTube channel to promote safety, awareness, and effective routines for swimmers with special needs.

Role Description The Recreational Therapist – Adaptive Aquatics Coordinator is a 32 hour full time, on-site role based in Newton, MA Reading MA & Salem NH. This role involves planning and leading adaptive swim lessons for all ages of people with diverse abilities and needs. The coordinator will assess participant goals, design individualized aquatic recreation plans, and facilitate safe, engaging activities that promote motor skills, social interaction, and confidence in the water. Day-to-day responsibilities include providing direct service delivery, communicating with families and interdisciplinary team members, and ensuring adherence to safety protocols and best practices in therapeutic recreation. The role also supports program development through collaboration on new activities, refinement of existing curricula, and participation in training and quality improvement initiatives.

Qualifications

• Strong background in Recreation and Therapeutic Recreation, with the ability to design and lead adaptive aquatic and recreational activities.
• Certification or eligibility as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS), or equivalent training and experience in therapeutic recreation.
• Ability to accurately and professionally complete client notes within the HIPAA compliant scheduling software.
• Prior experience working with children and youth with Autism, anxiety, sensory processing differences, and motor challenges.
• Knowledge of stroke development, learn to swim benchmarks and water safety in aquatic environments.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a collaborative approach to working with families and multidisciplinary teams.
• CPR, first aid (or willingness to obtain) preferred.
• Relevant associate or bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation, Recreation Management, Occupational Therapy, Social Work, or a related field preferred.