What are the responsibilities and job description for the Recreation Specialist position at We Level Up?
Company Description We Level Up Treatment Centers is a national network of accredited behavioral health and rehabilitation facilities that provides compassionate, evidence-based care for adults facing substance use disorders, drug and alcohol addiction, and co-occurring mental health conditions. The organization offers a full continuum of care, including medical detox, inpatient rehab, residential mental health treatment, and outpatient services supported by licensed clinicians and medical professionals. With treatment centers located across the U.S., We Level Up focuses on personalized recovery plans and dual diagnosis treatment that address both mind and body. The team is dedicated to empowering clients to overcome addiction, improve mental wellness, and achieve meaningful, lasting transformation. Employees join a mission-driven environment centered on recovery, dignity, and hope.
Role Description The Recreation Specialist is a full-time, on-site role based in Houston, TX. This position is responsible for planning, organizing, and leading individual and group recreational activities that support clients’ recovery, mental wellness, and overall quality of life. Daily tasks include developing structured recreation schedules, facilitating indoor and outdoor activities, and adapting programs to meet diverse physical and emotional needs. The Recreation Specialist collaborates closely with clinical and nursing teams to integrate therapeutic goals into recreational programming, monitors client participation and safety, and documents attendance and progress. Additional responsibilities include maintaining equipment and activity areas, enforcing facility guidelines, providing supportive supervision during outings, and contributing ideas to continuously improve the client experience.
Qualifications
- Recreation and Outdoor Recreation skills to plan, organize, and lead safe, engaging individual and group activities that support recovery.
- Therapeutic Recreation experience or training to design programs that promote emotional regulation, social skills, and healthy coping strategies.
- Supervisory Skills to oversee groups, manage risk, maintain safety and order during activities and outings, and respond appropriately to crises.
- Strong Communication abilities, including clear verbal directions, effective documentation, active listening, and collaborative teamwork with clinical staff.
- Previous experience in a behavioral health, residential, or similar client-facing setting is preferred.
- Ability to work a consistent full-time schedule, including evenings or weekends as needed for programming.
- Capability to stand, walk, and participate in light to moderate physical activities; ability to safely transport and set up equipment.
- High school diploma or equivalent required; coursework or certification in recreation, therapeutic recreation, psychology, social work, or a related field is a plus.
- CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain within a specified timeframe.
- Commitment to trauma-informed, person-centered, and culturally sensitive care, with a respectful and inclusive approach to all clients.