ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Activity Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Gardant

Activity Assistant - Part-time

South Elgin, IL

$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 ...

Gardant

Activity Assistant- 1st shift

Chicago, IL

$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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsActivity JobsActivity Assistant JobsActivity Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

Activity Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do activity assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for activity assistant in Chicago, IL is $16.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $17.84 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.

What type of assistant makes the most money?

Among assistant roles, executive assistants and administrative assistants with specialized skills or experience tend to earn the highest salaries. Those who support top executives, have certifications, or work in high-demand industries can significantly increase their earning potential.

What is the activity assistant job description?

An activity assistant plans, organizes, and facilitates recreational and social activities for residents or clients, often in settings like senior centers or healthcare facilities. They work closely with staff to promote engagement, require good communication skills, and may need to complete relevant certifications or background checks.

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 are Activity Assistants?

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 background checks or certifications in first aid or CPR. Volunteering or prior experience in activities or caregiving can also improve job prospects.

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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

For an Activity Assistant, earning $4,000 a week is uncommon, as the role typically offers lower wages. High-paying jobs that do not require a degree include certain sales positions, real estate agents, or skilled trades like commercial diving or specialized construction, which often rely on experience, certifications, or commissions rather than formal education. These roles may involve variable income, commission-based pay, or overtime opportunities to reach higher weekly earnings.
What are the most commonly searched types of Activity jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Activity jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Activity Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL? For Activity Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Activity Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Activity Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Activity Assistant jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Activity Assistant job openings:
Activity Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Activity Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, and 23% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,284 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Activity Assistant

Serenity Estates of Lincolnshire

Lincolnshire, IL

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Activity Assistant

Lincolnshire, Illinois

Serenity Estates of Lincolnshire

Full-Time Position

Serenity Estates of Lincolnshire is currently accepting applications for our Full Time Activities Assistant opportunity. This opportunity will play a vital role in assisting with weekly and monthly activity schedules and works closely with our residents

Responsibilities:

• Assist in transporting residents to scheduled daily activities

•Works closely with the Activity Director in planning and coordinating the activity calendar.

• Develop and maintain a good working rapport with other departments within the facility and outside community health, welfare, and social agencies to ensure that activity programs are properly maintained to meet the needs of patients/residents.

• Resident engagement to promote participation in each activity.

• Maintain an excellent attitude and demeanor, with an upbeat personality

• Perform other essential functions and duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Must have excellent communication skills, especially verbal/oral communication.

• Must be able to work as part of a team.

• Ability to work with little or no supervision.

• Good interpersonal skills.

*Artistic and creative skills highly preferred

• He/she must prove to be extremely reliable.

• Must have excellent time management abilities.

• Knowledgeable of patient/resident rights and promotes an atmosphere which allows for the privacy, dignity, and well-being of all residents in a safe, secure environment.

• Must have a high school diploma or GED.

*Must be comfortable working in a skilled nursing environment

If you are a passionate and dedicated individual looking for a rewarding career in activities, we encourage you to apply for our Activity Assistant position at Serenity Estates of Lincolnshire. Apply to this exciting opportunity today and join our team of dedicated professionals!