Location: San Luis Obispo, CA

Start Date: 01-26-2026

End Date: 08-30-2026

Shift Type: Tuesday-Saturday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM (Day)

Hours per Week: 40

Candidate Pay Rate: $65 per hour

About United Health Care Staffing

At United Health Care Staffing (UHC Staffing), we believe healthcare staffing should be more than just finding a job. We are here to connect amazing professionals with opportunities that make their careers exciting, rewarding, and meaningful. With us, you're not just signing up for a contract you are joining a team that's got your back, answers your calls, and maybe even cracks a joke or two to brighten your day. Think of us as the travel buddy who handles the logistics while you focus on what you do best helping people heal.

Roles & Responsibilities

• Design and lead therapeutic recreation activities tailored to mental health and EOP participants
• Assess participant needs, track progress, and document outcomes in a timely, professional manner
• Collaborate with clinicians, security staff, and program leads to ensure safe, effective interventions
• Adapt activities for varied ability levels and behavioral needs within a correctional facility setting
• Facilitate group therapy and skill-building sessions that promote coping, socialization, and community reintegration
• Monitor participant safety, respond to behavioral incidents, and follow facility policies and protocols
• Assist in program development and evaluation to improve engagement and measurable outcomes
• Provide compassionate, strength-based interactions that respect participant dignity and confidentiality

Qualifications

• Certification as a Recreational Therapist (e.g., CTRS) or eligible to obtain certification
• Experience working with mental health populations and familiarity with Enhanced Outpatient Programs preferred
• Comfortable working in a correctional facility and able to complete required background checks and facility clearances
• Current BLS/CPR certification or willingness to obtain upon hire
• Strong communication, group facilitation, and documentation skills

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Recreational Therapy, Therapeutic Recreation, or a related human services field; equivalent experience considered
• Certification (CTRS) preferred or eligibility to sit for certification

Knowledge & Skills

• Therapeutic recreation assessment and treatment planning
• Group facilitation and activity design for mental health populations
• Behavior management and de-escalation techniques
• Familiarity with Enhanced Outpatient Program (EOP) goals and interventions
• Clinical documentation and outcome measurement
• Collaborative care within multidisciplinary teams
• Cultural competence and trauma-informed approaches
• Adaptability working in secure or correctional settings

Benefits

• Competitive pay with a 40-hour weekly guarantee to keep your paycheck steady
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision options to keep you healthy
• Paid time off so you can recharge and enjoy the Central Coast
• Licensure assistance and reimbursement to support your professional growth
• Travel reimbursement and housing resources for contract convenience
• Referral bonus program because great teammates know more great teammates
• Supportive multidisciplinary team that values your expertise and creativity
• Access to continuing education and professional development opportunities

Travel Perks: Explore San Luis Obispo, CA

San Luis Obispo is a gorgeous Central Coast base. Enjoy weekend hikes at Bishop Peak and Monta?a de Oro State Park, stroll the charming downtown and the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, catch a sunset at Pismo Beach, or take short wine country trips to nearby Paso Robles. Local farmers markets, coastal drives, and easy access to Big Sur and Santa Barbara make weekends an adventure.

Hashtags

#RecreationalTherapistJobs #SanLuisObispoJobs #MentalHealthJobs #UHCCareers #EOPJobs #TherapeuticRecreation #CaliforniaHealthcare #TravelTherapist #CorrectionalHealthJobs