Therapeutic Activities Aide

The Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA), Pennsylvania Soldiers' and Sailors' Home offers a unique opportunity to work with veterans and make a positive impact on their lives. As a leader of therapeutic activities for our residents, you will have the chance to create meaningful experiences and foster positive interactions every day. This position requires an individual who is ambitious and confident, but above all, has a deep commitment to providing exceptional care to those who have served our country. If you have a passion for supporting veterans and are dedicated to making a difference in their lives, then this job is the perfect opportunity for you!

Watch this video to see how you can make a difference caring for Pennsylvania's veterans working for the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. Come join the DMVA team, apply today!

As a Therapeutic Activities Aide, you will conduct planned sessions of resident activities under the direction of Therapeutic Recreational Services staff that will lead residents of the home to their highest level of physical, cognitive, and social abilities. You will direct and participate in program activities such as social parties, dances, dinners, bus or van rides, table games, field trips, clubs, movies, bingo, shopping, bowling, crafts, games, fishing, music, exercise, picnics, gardening, and leisure time spectator activities. You will also instruct or assist residents individually and in group sessions, creating a safe and pleasant atmosphere. In addition, you will have an opportunity to attend training and educational programs. Your commitment to resident interaction will help create a sense of community and belonging for those who have sacrificed so much for our nation.

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Full-time employment (8 hours per day; 40 hours per week)
• Work hours are 12:00 PM to 8:30 PM, Sunday - Saturday, with a 30-minute lunch.
  • Working every other weekend and rotating holidays as scheduled
  • Work hours can be flexed based on operational needs
• Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.
• Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable.
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

• Six months of experience as an Aide Trainee (Commonwealth job title or equivalent Federal Government job title, as determined by the Office of Administration); or
• Six months of work experience providing care to individuals requiring assistance with daily activities; or
• An equivalent combination of experience and training.

Additional Requirements:

• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Preferred Qualifications (not required):

• Willingness to work in Erie County, PA
• Willingness to work a full-time schedule
• Willing to work a flex schedule, 12:00 PM - 8:30 PM, with rotating days and weekends
• Completed college coursework in behavioral sciences
• Experience as a Therapeutic Activity Aide in a Commonwealth facility
• Three or more years of paid experience in the field of physical, recreational, or occupational therapy
• Three or more years of paid experience related to therapeutic activities, such as leading community activities and/or events
• Experience working in a long-term care facility

Legal Requirements:

• A conditional offer of employment will require a medical examination.
• This position falls under the provisions of the Older Adult Protective Services Act.
  • Under the Act, a conditional offer of employment will require submission and approval of satisfactory criminal history reports, including but not limited to, PA State Police and FBI clearance.

How to Apply:

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
• Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.

Veterans:

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.