Activities Assistant

Working Conditions Works in office areas as well as throughout the facility. Moves intermittently during working hours. Is subject to frequent interruptions. Is involved with residents, personnel, visitors, government agencies/personnel, etc., under all conditions and circumstances. Is subject to hostile and emotionally upset residents, family members, etc. Communicates with the medical staff, nursing services and other department directors. Works beyond normal working hours on weekends and in other positions temporarily, when necessary. Is subject to call back during emergency conditions (e.g., severe weather, evacuation, post-disaster, etc.). Attends and participates in continuing education programs. Is subject to injury from falls, burns from equipment, odors, etc., throughout the day as well as to reactions from dust, disinfectants, tobacco smoke and other air contaminants. Is subject to exposure to infectious waste, diseases, conditions, etc., including TB and the AIDS and Hepatitis B viruses. Maintains a liaison with other department supervisors to adequately plan for resident activities. May be subject to the handling of and exposure to hazardous chemicals. Education Must possess, as a minimum, two (2) year(s) of college. Degree preferred but not necessary. Must be a qualified therapeutic recreation specialist or an activities professional who is licensed or certified by the state. Experience Must have, as a minimum, two (2) year(s) experience in a social or recreation program within the last five (5) years, one (1) of which was full-time in a patient activities program in a health care setting; or Must be a qualified occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant; or Must have completed a training course approved by the state. Specific Requirements Must be able to read, write, speak and understand the English language. Must possess the ability to make independent decisions when circumstances warrant such action. Must be knowledgeable of regulations governing activities services in nursing care facilities. Must demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age-related needs of the residents served. Must possess the ability to deal tactfully with personnel, residents, family members, visitors, government agencies/personnel and the general public. Must possess leadership ability and willingness to work harmoniously with and supervise other personnel. Must have patience, tact, cheerful disposition and enthusiasm as well as be willing to handle residents based on whatever maturity level at which they are currently functioning. Must possess the ability to seek out new methods and principles and be willing to incorporate them into existing activities services. Must be a member in good standing in the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) and Academy of Certified Social Workers (ACSW). Must be able to relate information concerning a resident's condition. Must not pose a direct threat to the health or safety of other individuals in the workplace. Physical and Sensory Requirements (with or without the aid of mechanical devices) Must be able to move intermittently throughout the workday. Must be able to speak and write the English language in an understandable manner. Must be able to cope with the mental and emotional stress of the position. Must possess sight/hearing senses or use prosthetics that will enable these senses to function adequately so that the requirements of this position can be fully met. Must function independently and have flexibility, personal integrity and the ability to work effectively with residents, personnel and support agencies. Must meet the general health requirements set forth by the policies of this facility which include a medical and physical examination. Must be able to relate to and work with ill, disabled, elderly, emotionally upset and, at times, hostile people within the facility. Must be able to push, pull, move and/or lift a minimum of 25 pounds to a minimum height of 5 feet and be able to push, pull, move and/or carry such weight a minimum distance of 50 feet. May be necessary to assist in the evacuation of residents during emergency situations.