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Activity Assistant Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

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Activity Assistant information

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How much do activity assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for activity assistant in Columbia, SC is $14.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $16.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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 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, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required, along with experience in activities or caregiving. Relevant skills include communication, organization, and creativity, and some positions may require background checks or certifications in first aid or CPR. Gaining experience through volunteering or entry-level roles can also improve chances of employment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Activity jobs in Columbia, SC?

The most popular types of Activity jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What are popular job titles related to Activity Assistant jobs in Columbia, SC?

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

What job categories do people searching Activity Assistant jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Activity Assistant jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Activity Assistant jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Activity Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Activity Assistant job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,765 per year, or $14.8 per hour.

Activity Therapist II (Morris Village)

State of South Carolina

Cayce, SC • On-site

$40K - $64K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


State Of South Carolina rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Responsibilities Are you passionate about making a real difference in people's lives. Join our team at the Office of Mental Health where we are dedicated to providing compassionate and accessible care to our community. We are seeking an Activity Therapist II who is motivated to help individuals and families navigate life's challenges and achieve long-term wellness.

If you want to use your skills to build a healthier, more resilient community, we encourage you to apply. This position is located at the SC Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) - Office of Mental Health, Morris Village Alcohol and Drug Treatment Center, 620 Faison Drive, Columbia, SC 29203. As the Activity Therapist II, you will plan, coordinate, implement and supervise the Morris Village Activity Therapy Department treatment program, staff and Internship Program.

Assist with the evaluation, development and Performance Improvement of patient care and treatment program services. Provide supervision of recreation therapy staff, interns and the Activity Therapy Internship Program. Function as an integral part of the Activity Therapy Services and assigned treatment team.

Conduct Activity Therapy referral groups, leisure activities and special events. Function cooperatively as a role model practicing teamwork within the Activity Therapy Department and with Morris Village and other facility staff. Responsibilities for the Activity Therapy II: Provide supervision of Activity Therapy staff including performance evaluations, timekeeping and attendance, scheduling and coverage, a harassment-free environment, age and cultural competence, safety management, professionalism and prohibited abuse, neglect or exploitation of patients.

As a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS), assist service compliance of OMH and MV Policies and Procedures, and with planning, implementation and evaluation of daily, weekend and holiday leisure activities and special events. Conduct goal-oriented Activity Therapy referral groups utilizing Recreation Therapy techniques. Plan and implement the referral program as it relates to substance use disorders and evaluates this service through collecting data and submitting statistical reports.

Function as cooperatively in the provision of group and documentation coverage for co-leader. Document assessments and progress reports for patients' electronic medical record to comply with quality and performance improvement standards. Complete assessment requiring completion by a CTRS.

Comply with treatment/care planning policies and procedures. Attend treatment team meetings and participate in the identification of patient treatment needs in the development of a plan of care outlining interventions to meet goals identified and in the evaluation of patient care outcomes. Interview, select, and supervise Recreation Therapy (RT) Interns.

Plan, coordinate, implements and evaluate the R. T. Internship Program.

Evaluate treatment service effectiveness and submit proposals for improvement. Implement changes as approved to comply with program and Corporate Compliance standards. Complete and submit Quality Performance Improvement monitoring and evaluation reports.

Manage and care for facility and equipment to enhance a safe and therapeutic environment. Approve and submit supply and repair requests. Participate in OMH/MV mandatory and other relevant training to ensure competency.

Participate in relevant staff and committee meetings. Minimum and Additional Requirements A bachelor's degree in physical education, recreation or a related field and relevant program experience. A master's degree in Recreation Therapy and two (2) years of experience or a bachelor's degree in Recreation Therapy and three (3) years of experience Recreation Therapy and three (3) years' experience in the corresponding field of therapy.

The curriculum for the degree must include a period of supervised clinical experience of no less than three (3) months. Additional Requirements: Ability to work 37.5 hours weekly with rotating weekend, evening and holiday coverage. The ability to be mobile throughout the entire facility, including all Activity Therapy areas

Be able to perform physical requirements such as lifting, pushing, pulling and climbing as needed in a recreational setting. Preferred Qualifications Bilingual abilities in English and Spanish (or another language) are a plus. CTRS certification.

Additional Comments Post hire, employee must: Have thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of Recreation and Activity Therapy. Be skilled in utilizing Activity Therapy assessment, treatment techniques and modalities to assist patients in achieving therapeutic goals. Be able to establish rapport with patients.

Have the ability to communicate both verbally and in writing with patients, staff, community and contacts. Have professionalism and skills in supervising staff proving direct patient care and in developing and practicing teamwork within the A. T.

department and with other MV and OMH teams and departments. Have the ability to plan, coordinate and implement the Activity Therapy Internship Program. Provide supervision for university interns, maintaining NCTRC and university standards of practice for certification.

Have computer and EHR knowledge and skills. The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions including, but not limited, to lactation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information. Supplemental questions are considered part of your official application.

Any misrepresentation will result in your disqualification from employment. Please complete the state application to include all current and previous work history and education. A resume will not be accepted nor reviewed to determine if an applicant has met the qualifications for the position.

The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities offers an exceptional benefits package for full time (FTE) employees: Health, dental, vision, long-term disability, and life insurance for employees, spouse, and children. Click here for additional information. 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year 15 days sick leave per year 13 paid holidays Paid Parental Leave S.C

Deferred Compensation Program available (S.C. Deferred Compensation) Retirement benefit choices * State Retirement Plan (SCRS) State Optional Retirement Program (State ORP) *Enrollment in one of the listed plans is required for all FTE employees; please refer to the contribution section of hyperlinked retirement sites for the current contribution rate of gross pay.


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About State of South Carolina

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

State of South Carolina is not a typical corporation, but the governing body of the US state of South Carolina, located in the capital city of Columbia. Its industry focuses on public administration, providing key essential services to ensure the efficient functioning of the state. These services range from public safety and environment protection to education, healthcare, and economic development. The state was founded in 1788, grounded in democratic principles meant to support the overall well-being of its citizenry. Its core values revolve around service, integrity, accountability, and transparency. The mission of the State of South Carolina is to improve the quality of life for all its people, with a focus on education advancement, economic growth, and improved healthcare.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbia, SC, US

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