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SO
State of Illinois
ACTIVITY THERAPIST (UMP)
Career Insights for Recreational Therapist
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What they do
A Recreational Therapist directs and coordinates recreational activities for people with disabilities or illness to help them improve their emotional and physical well-being, improve motor skills and increase confidence. Leads activities involving movement, sports, games, and other activities for brain stimulation. Assists patients with disabilities to learn to use public resources such as parks and public transportation, and integrate in the community. Works with people of all ages, in schools, nursing homes, clinics and other healthcare facilities, or in parks and recreation departments.
$56,740 / year median in Illinois
+0% projected growth
Job Description
Position Overview The Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery is seeking to hire an Activity Therapist for the Alton Mental Health Center located in Alton, Illinois to provide activity therapy for patients deemed to be Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity or Unfit to Stand Trial. Evaluates complex behaviors and reactions relative to patient's interaction with activities and leisure time. Establishes and coordinates types and schedules of activity programs.
Essential Functions Provides activity therapy for patients deemed to be Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity or Unfit to Stand Trial at the Alton Mental Health Center. As a primary therapist for forensic patients, formulates treatment plans, writes program notes, and formulates realistic discharge plans. Conducts Activity Therapy Assessments on newly admitted patients and annually on current patients in the facility. Orders and stocks supplies and equipment for activities. Teaches classes for new activity therapy, service team employees, and volunteers. Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of duties enumerated above. Minimum Qualifications Requires a bachelor's degree with a major in therapeutic recreation, music therapy, art therapy, dance therapy, drama therapy, leisure studies or recreation with a specialization in recreational therapy, including successful completion of an approved internship, fieldwork or practicum. •This class is included as an Upward Mobility Program credential title. Conditions of Employment Requires the ability to physically restrain patients as necessary to prevent injury to patient or others. Requires the ability to obtain and maintain Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certificate. Requires ability to pass the IDHS background check. Requires ability to pass a drug screen for drugs prohibited from recreational use under Illinois Law. •All conditions of employment listed are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.
Job Requisition ID:
57476 OpeningDate:
07/22/2026Closing Date:
08/04/2026Agency:
Department of Human ServicesClass Title:
ACTIVITY THERAPIST
•00157Skill Option:
UMP CredentialBilingual Option:
NoneSalary:
Anticipated Salary:
$5,328•$7,819 per month ($63,936•$93,828 per year)Job Type:
SalariedCategory:
Full TimeCounty:
MadisonNumber of Vacancies:
3Bargaining Unit Code:
RC062Technical Employees, AFSCMEMerit Comp Code:
This position is a union position; therefore, provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position. While not required, a Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV) is recommended. When applicable, titles that require specific coursework, professional license or certification will include a notation requesting the appropriate document(s) be uploaded in the Additional Documents section of your application. Failure to upload requested transcripts, license and/or proof of certification when specified may result in ineligibility. Please note that the Department of Human Services must verify proof of higher education for any degree earned (if applicable) regardless of vacancy title before any offer can be extended. All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the illinois.jobs2web.com website. State of Illinois employees should click the link near the top left to apply through the SuccessFactors employee career portal. Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered. Why Work for Illinois? Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you're helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you're part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home. No matter what state career you're looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.Position Overview The Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery is seeking to hire an Activity Therapist for the Alton Mental Health Center located in Alton, Illinois to provide activity therapy for patients deemed to be Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity or Unfit to Stand Trial. Evaluates complex behaviors and reactions relative to patient's interaction with activities and leisure time. Establishes and coordinates types and schedules of activity programs.
Essential Functions Provides activity therapy for patients deemed to be Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity or Unfit to Stand Trial at the Alton Mental Health Center. As a primary therapist for forensic patients, formulates treatment plans, writes program notes, and formulates realistic discharge plans. Conducts Activity Therapy Assessments on newly admitted patients and annually on current patients in the facility. Orders and stocks supplies and equipment for activities. Teaches classes for new activity therapy, service team employees, and volunteers. Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of duties enumerated above. Minimum Qualifications Requires a bachelor's degree with a major in therapeutic recreation, music therapy, art therapy, dance therapy, drama therapy, leisure studies or recreation with a specialization in recreational therapy, including successful completion of an approved internship, fieldwork or practicum. •This class is included as an Upward Mobility Program credential title. Conditions of Employment Requires the ability to physically restrain patients as necessary to prevent injury to patient or others. Requires the ability to obtain and maintain Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certificate. Requires ability to pass the IDHS background check. Requires ability to pass a drug screen for drugs prohibited from recreational use under Illinois Law. •All conditions of employment listed are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.