Creative/Expressive Arts Therapist (J. Iverson Riddle Developmental Center)

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is one of the largest, most complex agencies in the state, and has approximately 17,000 employees. It is responsible for ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of all North Carolinians, providing human service needs for special populations including individuals who are deaf, blind, developmentally disabled, and mentally ill, and helping poor North Carolinians achieve economic independence.

As of 2/1/26, thee new salary range is:

Salary Range: $43,477.00 - $65,216.00 

Candidates now meet the minimum qualifications of a position if they meet the minimum education and experience listed on the vacancy announcement.

The Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs )/Management Preferences are not required. Applicants who possess the following skills are preferred:

• Training in/experience in working with people with IDD.

• Treatment design and documentation.

• Knowledge of education principles to employ with paraprofessional staff

• Ability to adapt approach/intervention relative to resident need.

• Ability to communicate with other professionals and paraprofessionals regarding treatment of individuals and the use of the creative arts in therapy.

This Position Is Designated As Mandatory And Must Report Or Stay Over During Adverse Weather Events.

We will be recruiting for multiple positions with this post. Your application will be considered for all noted open positions.

Some state job postings say you can qualify by an “equivalent combination of education and experience.” If that language appears below, then you may qualify through EITHER years of education OR years of directly related experience, OR a combination of both. See the Education and Experience Equivalency Guide for details.

Bachelor’s degree in music therapy which includes a six month internship from an appropriately accredited institution; or Bachelor’s degree in music or music education with an equivalency in music therapy which includes a six month internship from an appropriately accredited institution; or Bachelor’s degree in one of the creative/expressive arts areas (art, dance, drama, music) from an appropriately accredited institution and two years of experience in all phases of therapeutic programming; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Administering the class: if the creative/expressive arts degree program has a therapeutic equivalency or emphasis, the experience requirements will be waived.

The State of North Carolina is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and dedicated to providing employees with a work environment free from all forms of unlawful employment discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. The state provides reasonable accommodation to employees and applicants with disabilities; known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; and for religious beliefs, observances, and practices.

talentacquisition@dhhs.nc.gov