ENVIRONMENTAL THERAPY AIDE

Code: 01744@ Local Competitive

Official job specification

The text below is the official specification published by the New Jersey Civil Service Commission. The plain-language summary and analysis above are derived from it by NJ Civil Service Navigator. Source: the official specification page at NJ CSC.

Definition

Under direction in a general therapy program, provides assistance in the areas of occupational therapy, music therapy, recreation therapy, personal hygiene and grooming, and domestic arts; does related work as required.

Examples of work

• Conducts classes in needlework, artwork, metal work, basket weaving, leather work, and other arts and crafts.
• Prepares and lays out materials to be used and sees that necessary precautions and safeguards are taken.
• Instructs patients in the principles of personal hygiene and good grooming.
• Teaches patients the rudiments of good housekeeping.
• Conducts cooking classes.
• Organizes and oversees social activities for patients.
• Teaches patients to dance.
• Organizes, instructs, and supervises singing and other musical activities.
• Organizes, instructs, and supervises sports activities.
• Conducts physical fitness classes.
• Reports on attendance, work output, and patients' attitudes and progress.
• Is responsible for the cleanliness and good order of the unit.
• Maintains equipment in proper operating condition.
• Keeps necessary records.
• Will be required to learn to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units.

Experience

One (1) year of experience in work involved in the custody or care of patients or in occupational, music, or recreation therapy or home economics work..

License

Appointees will be required to possess a driver's license valid in New Jersey only if the operation of a vehicle, rather than employee mobility, is necessary to perform the essential duties of the position.

Knowledge, skills and abilities

• Knowledge of the problems encountered in working in a therapy unit with persons who are mentally or physically ill.
• Knowledge of institutional routines and programs.
• Knowledge of equipment, materials, and procedures used in a general therapy program.
• Ability to learn quickly from oral and written instructions and from demonstrations.
• Ability to give simple instructions and routine assistance to patients under professional supervision and to lay out and prepare equipment and supplies.
• Ability to establish and maintain and cooperative relationship with supervisory officers, professional therapists, working assistants, and patients.
• Ability to prepare records of patients' progress, materials used, and other reports.
• Ability to maintain established records and files.
• Ability to learn to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units.
• Ability to read, write, speak, understand, or communicate in English sufficiently to perform the duties of this position. American Sign Language or Braille may also be considered as acceptable forms of communication.
• Persons with mental or physical disabilities are eligible as long as they can perform the essential functions of the job after reasonable accommodation is made to their known limitations. If the accommodation cannot be made because it would cause the employer undue hardship, such persons may not be eligible.

Note

The definition and examples of work for this title are for illustrative purposes only. A particular position using this title may not perform all duties listed in this job specification. Conversely, all duties performed on the job may not be listed.