THERAPY AIDE
Therapy Aide is non-competitive, meaning the state checks your education and experience against the spec instead of ranking you on a test.
The main requirement is 1 year of relevant experience. Pay on the FY2027 schedule runs $38,928 to $55,860, and state payroll currently lists about 11 people in the title, led by Health and Senior Services.
How to apply
This title is not filled by examination — agencies appoint directly.
See every real route in, and where to apply. 3 agencies employ it. We don't track live vacancies.
How to apply for this title →Who employs this title
State payroll records show 11 people working under this title. The median actual salary is $42,519. The agencies employing the most are:
- Health and Senior Services (4)
- Military and Veterans Affairs (4)
- Human Services (3)
Counts from NJ YourMoney agency payroll. See statewide workforce analytics.
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.
Definition
Under the direction of a professional therapist or other supervisor in a state department facility, institution, or agency, performs the routine, repetitive, non-professional work in an occupational therapy, physical therapy, music therapy or recreation therapy program; does other related work.
Examples of work
Under supervision of a professional therapist, implements basic socializing, remotivation and behavior modification therapy techniques. Participates in group meetings of therapeutic nature and takes an active part in the clients' treatment program. Assists patients in their performance of occupational therapy work. Maintains stock of equipment, materials and supplies used for therapy. Prepares and lays out materials and equipment to be used and sees that necessary precautions and safeguards are taken. Performs minor maintenance of equipment. Aides the therapist by providing arrangements for and assisting with recreational programs and play activities. Ensures the proper care, custody and safety of patients according with established regulations and procedures. Escorts clients to and from classrooms, treatment areas, and recreation and/or other areas and may be required to transport clients in facility vehicles. Compiles and maintains clients' progress charts. Ensures cleanliness and order in treatment areas and classrooms. Prepares reports. Keeps records and files. May 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.
Requirements
EXPERIENCE: One (1) year of experience in physical therapy, occupational therapy, music therapy or recreation therapy work or as an attendant in a State department facility, institution or agency. LICENSE: Appointee 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 a therapy unit. Knowledge of routines, programs, and problems encountered in a State institution, facility or agency. Knowledge of equipment, materials, and procedures used in physical, occupational, and/or recreational or music therapy. Ability to learn from oral and written instructions and demonstrations. Ability to provide instructions and routine assistance to patients under professional supervision. Ability to establish and maintain a cooperative relationship with other staff and clients. Ability to observe the rules and regulations of the institution and to ensure the safety, custody and well being of patients. Ability to prepare records of clients' 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. CODES: 08/H09 - MCK 3/18/03
Note
The 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.