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Activity Assistant Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Arvum Senior Living

Activity Assistant

Sparta, IL · On-site

$16 - $16.50/hr

Advises and motivates residents regarding appropriate individual and group activities based on resident interests and opportunities for growth. * Prepares and organizes a calendar of events. Submits ...

Gardant

Activity Assistant

Maryville, IL · On-site

$16 - $16.10/hr

Documents the resident's participation in activities daily * Plans and maintains an inventory list of activity equipment and supplies * Evaluates the overall effectiveness of the resident's activity ...

Arvum Senior Living

Activity Assistant

Sparta, IL

$12.75 - $15.25/hr

Advises and motivates residents regarding appropriate individual and group activities based on resident interests and opportunities for growth. * Prepares and organizes a calendar of events. Submits ...

Gardant

Activity Assistant

Maryville, IL · On-site

$16 - $16.10/hr

Documents the resident's participation in activities daily * Plans and maintains an inventory list of activity equipment and supplies * Evaluates the overall effectiveness of the resident's activity ...

Arvum Senior Living

Activity Assistant

Sparta, IL

$16 - $16.50/hr

Advises and motivates residents regarding appropriate individual and group activities based on resident interests and opportunities for growth. * Prepares and organizes a calendar of events. Submits ...

Gardant

Activity Assistant - Part-time

O Fallon, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $16/hr

Documents the resident's participation in activities daily * Plans and maintains an inventory list of activity equipment and supplies * Evaluates the overall effectiveness of the resident's activity ...

New

Gardant

Activity Assistant - Part-time

Tuscola, IL · On-site

$15.25 - $15.50/hr

Documents the resident's participation in activities daily * Plans and maintains an inventory list of activity equipment and supplies * Evaluates the overall effectiveness of the resident's activity ...

Gardant

Activity Assistant - Part-time

O Fallon, IL

$15.50 - $16/hr

Documents the resident's participation in activities daily * Plans and maintains an inventory list of activity equipment and supplies * Evaluates the overall effectiveness of the resident's activity ...

New

Gardant

Activity Assistant - Part-time

Tuscola, IL

$15.25 - $15.50/hr

Documents the resident's participation in activities daily * Plans and maintains an inventory list of activity equipment and supplies * Evaluates the overall effectiveness of the resident's activity ...

Gardant

Activity Assistant - Part-time

South Elgin, IL · On-site

$16 - $16.50/hr

Documents the resident's participation in activities daily * Plans and maintains an inventory list of activity equipment and supplies * Evaluates the overall effectiveness of the resident's activity ...

Gardant

Activity Assistant - Part-time

South Elgin, IL · On-site

$16 - $16.50/hr

Documents the resident's participation in activities daily * Plans and maintains an inventory list of activity equipment and supplies * Evaluates the overall effectiveness of the resident's activity ...

Gardant

Activity Assistant- 1st shift

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $18/hr

Documents the resident's participation in activities daily * Plans and maintains an inventory list of activity equipment and supplies * Evaluates the overall effectiveness of the resident's activity ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsActivity JobsActivity Assistant JobsActivity Assistant Jobs in Illinois

Activity Assistant information

See Illinois salary details

$9

$15

$19

How much do activity assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for activity assistant in Illinois is $15.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $16.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Activity Assistant vs Activity Coordinator?

AspectActivity AssistantActivity Coordinator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certification in activities or recreationSimilar requirements; often requires experience in activity planning
Work EnvironmentAssists in activity implementation, often in healthcare, senior living, or community centersPlans, organizes, and oversees activities, typically in similar settings
Employer & IndustryHealthcare facilities, senior living communities, recreational centersSame as Activity Assistant, with more responsibility for planning
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, responsibilities, and qualificationsLooking for leadership or planning differences

The main difference between an Activity Assistant and an Activity Coordinator is the level of responsibility. An Activity Assistant supports the implementation of activities, while an Activity Coordinator plans, organizes, and oversees activities. Both roles often require similar credentials and work in healthcare or community settings, but the Coordinator typically has more leadership duties.

How do you become an activity assistant?

To become an activity assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and experience working with groups or in recreational settings. Relevant skills include communication, organization, and creativity, and some positions may require certification in first aid or activity planning. Applying through healthcare facilities, senior centers, or community organizations is common.

How does an activity assistant collaborate with other staff to ensure engaging programs for participants?

Activity Assistants frequently work alongside recreation coordinators, nursing staff, and volunteers to plan and facilitate events that meet the interests and needs of residents or participants. Collaboration involves regular communication to assess participants’ abilities, gather feedback, and coordinate scheduling. This teamwork helps ensure that activities are inclusive, safe, and tailored to diverse abilities, ultimately creating a supportive and engaging environment. Being proactive and adaptable when working with others is key to success in this role.

What is an activity assistant?

Activity Assistants are professionals who help plan, organize, and lead recreational activities for groups, often in settings like nursing homes, assisted living facilities, or community centers. Their goal is to enhance the quality of life for participants by providing engaging and therapeutic activities, such as arts and crafts, games, music sessions, and social events. They work closely with other staff to ensure activities are suitable for the participants’ abilities and interests, and help monitor participation and well-being during events.

How to become an activity assistant?

To become an activity assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and experience working with groups or in recreational settings. Relevant skills include communication, organization, and creativity, and some positions may require certification in first aid or CPR. Job requirements vary by employer but generally involve assisting with planning and leading activities for residents or participants.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an activity assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Activity Assistant, you need a basic understanding of recreational programming, strong organizational skills, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with scheduling software, activity planning tools, and sometimes CPR/First Aid certification is often required. Excellent interpersonal skills, creativity, and patience help you engage participants and foster a positive environment. These skills ensure that activities are safe, inclusive, and enjoyable, enhancing the well-being of participants in care or community settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Activity jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Activity jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Activity Assistant jobs in Illinois?

For Activity Assistant jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Activity Assistant jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Activity Assistant jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Activity Assistant jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Activity Assistant job openings:

Activity Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Activity Assistant job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,224 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Activity Assistant

Arvum Senior Living

Sparta, IL • On-site

$16 - $16.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

About Arvum Senior Living
Arvum Senior Living, proudly partof the Discovery Senior Living family of operating companies, manages care- and lifestyle-focused Assisted Living andMemory Care communities throughout the Midwest in Illinois,Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and Wisconsin. Our company, which was builton our "Pillars of Excellence," employs hundreds of vital Team Members and iscommitted to providing a positive work environment andculture that recognizes their value in providing excellent care for ourresidents.
Responsibilities:
  • Plans, schedules and conducts lifestyle programs that provide physical, intellectual, social, emotional and spiritual opportunities for the residents.
  • Plans appropriate programs for holidays and special events.
  • Recruits and develops additional resources for services to the residents. Initiates correspondence including public relations communications with outside organizations, service groups and volunteers.
  • Advises and motivates residents regarding appropriate individual and group activities based on resident interests and opportunities for growth.
  • Prepares and organizes a calendar of events. Submits the calendar to the Executive Director for final approval. Posts and distributes the calendar.
  • Develops and prints the community newsletter.
  • Provides leadership of lifestyle program.
  • Coordinates the community library.
  • Purchases and maintains equipment and supplies in accordance with budgetary guidelines.
  • Prepares preliminary draft of Celebrations Operating Budget.
  • Organizes and supervises a volunteer staff.
  • Addresses resident groups and other groups on subjects of common interest.
  • Maintains a database and prepares reports on resident quality assurance assessments, participation and satisfaction.
  • Supervises staff of Recreation and Event Coordinators across the multiple levels of service in a retirement community.
  • Participates in community in-services.
  • Demonstrates competence in Federal, State and Local regulations, requirements for skilled nursing, assisted living and/or independent living as applicable; ensures compliance.
  • Develops, facilitates and analyzes resident surveys to determine ongoing activities are in place that meet the resident interests.
  • Plans, coordinates and facilitates appropriate mixed group activities.
  • Develops and facilitates daily displays of activities on bulletin boards and/or kiosks in lobbies, elevators, dining rooms and other resident and team member communication centers.
  • Maintains a robust public relations program in support of the activities programming and community relations.
  • Implements and facilitates a volunteer recognition program.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities:
Directly supervises employees in the Celebrations Department. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees.
Qualifications:
  • Associate degree in Recreation, Education, Gerontology, Social Work, Adult Education.
  • Three to five years related experience.
  • Two years supervisory/management experience.

Benefits:
In addition to a rewarding career and competitive salary, Discovery offers a comprehensive benefit package.
Eligible team members are offered a comprehensive benefit package including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurances, paid time off and paid holidays. Team members are eligible to participate in our outstanding 401(k) plan with company match our Employee Assistance Program and accident insurance policies.
Thank you for your interest in Arvum Senior Living careers. If you have any questions about the position you are applying for, please contact the community directly.
No agencies, please. We do not accept any unsolicited resumes from agencies under any circumstances. We receive inquiries from agencies daily. Agencies should not direct any inquiries or emails to hiring managers. Thank you.
EOE D/V
JOB CODE: 1005427

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