DSHS Fircrest Recreation and Athletics Specialist 3

Full Job Description

Recreation And Athletics Specialist 3

Imagine a role where your thoughtful approach, creativity, and inclusive spirit help foster joy, connection, and a sense of belonging for others.

As a Recreation & Athletic Specialist 3 at Fircrest Residential Habilitation Center in Shoreline, WA, you’ll design and guide activities that enrich daily life; ranging from fitness and sports to art, music, social gatherings, and community outings.

Fircrest is a distinctive campus: 88 acres of natural green space in the heart of Shoreline, just north of Seattle and easily accessible by car or public transportation.

Here, you’ll join a team committed to offering residents opportunities for growth, engagement, and fulfillment.

This is a hands-on role where your steady presence, adaptability, and imagination will make a lasting impact.

See why people like you chose careers with DSHS:

King County employees receive 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary and are eligible to receive a free ORCA card for transportation use. Opportunities performed on-site at this work location at least three days a week may be eligible for an additional 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary.

Some of what you will do:

• Develop a schedule of recreational activities that reflect the interests, abilities, and goals of residents.
• Create individualized recreation and treatment plans that promote wellbeing, skill-building, and social connection.
• Coordinate on- and off-campus activities, outings, and special events, including concerts, barbecues, parades, and community trips.
• Work directly in recreation skill areas such as sports, arts, drama, music, and social activities.
• Collaborate with Attendant Counselor Managers and interdisciplinary teams to design and implement recreation programs.
• Prepare reports and maintain documentation, including recreation therapy assessments and progress notes.
• Organize and distribute recreation materials and equipment.

Who should apply? Professionals with the following:

• A bachelor's degree involving major study in:
  • Recreation or therapeutic recreation OR.
  • Music/drama, or physical education OR.
  • Psychology, sociology, or education with a minor in recreation, physical education, music, or drama.

• Two years of paid professional recreation experience

• One year of experience as a WA State Recreation Athletic Specialist 2

Note: Recreational therapy includes providing individualized assessments and treatment which are goal-oriented and directed towards rehabilitation and modification of specific physical, emotional, mental or social behaviors.

Additional knowledge, skills, and abilities we are looking for:

• Experience working with clients with developmental disabilities – Previous work supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities is highly valued.
• Activity planning skills – You know how to design fun and meaningful programs for people with different interests and abilities.
• Calm under pressure – Skill in handling challenging situations with patience, professionalism, and safety in mind.
• Team collaboration – Ability to work closely with colleagues and interdisciplinary teams to support resident goals.
• Person-centered care – Understanding of how to adapt activities to individual needs, interests, and preferences.
• Clear communication – You can explain things in a calm, respectful way to residents, teammates, and supervisors.
• Recreation therapy knowledge – You understand how games, art, and movement help people heal, grow, and connect.
• Safe practices – Knowledge of health and safety rules to ensure recreation programs are safe, inclusive, and welcoming.

Interested? Apply today!

Questions? Please contact the assigned DSHS recruiter by email peter.bonato@dshs.wa.gov and quote job number 01701.

The Department of Social and Health Services’ (DSHS) vision that people find human services to shape their own lives requires that we come together with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work. It is crucial to our agency’s vision that you bring a fairness, access, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to support all Washingtonians, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with physical, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security.

Additional Information

Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the job. This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle.

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protect­ed veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay or genetic information. Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the Recruiter at (360) 725-5810. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.


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