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Activity Assistant Jobs in Rancho Mirage, CA (NOW HIRING)

Activity Director

Palm Desert, CA · On-site

$32.69 - $33.65/hr

Recruit, develop, manage and schedule Activity Assistants, Drivers, and Community Volunteers. * Maintain a safe and secure environment for all staff, residents, and guests, following established ...

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Activity Director

Palm Desert, CA · On-site

$26 - $28/hr

Recruit, develop, manage and schedule Activity Assistants, Drivers, and Community Volunteers. * Maintain a safe and secure environment for all staff, residents, and guests, following established ...

New

Accounting Assistant

Indio, CA · On-site

$22.56 - $28/hr

Support billing activities by entering financial data accurately and helping resolve discrepancies in charges, postings, or account records. * Assist with bank and account reconciliations to identify ...

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Activity Assistant information

See Rancho Mirage, CA salary details

$9

$16

$20

How much do activity assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for activity assistant in Rancho Mirage, CA is $16.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $17.64 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 job categories do people searching Activity Assistant jobs in Rancho Mirage, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Activity Assistant jobs in Rancho Mirage, CA are:

What cities near Rancho Mirage, CA are hiring for Activity Assistant jobs?

Cities near Rancho Mirage, CA with the most Activity Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Activity Assistant job openings in Rancho Mirage, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,889 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Activity Assistant (PRN/Per Diem)

Coachella Valley Behavioral Health

Indio, CA • On-site

$25/hr

Per diem

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Overview

Per Diem/PRN -  Activity Assistant - Day Shift

Coachella Valley Behavioral Health, Indio CA

Hourly rate range: $25.00

Coachella Valley Behavioral Health is a NEW, state-of-the-art inpatient facility in Indio, California. We provide clinically excellent treatment for adults who are struggling with mental health concerns and substance use disorders. Located in Indio, California,

Coachella Valley Behavioral Health is the only facility of its kind in the area, and we are proud to provide services for those in need of effective behavioral healthcare.

Responsibilities

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:  

  • Organize, lead and promote interest in recreational activities to patients and their families.  
  • Serve as a resource for new patients introducing them to other patients and staff, explaining programs and encouraging participation.  
  • Explain the rules of activities and instruct participants at a variety of skill levels. 
  • Document activity interventions and patient progress in the medical record per facility documentation requirements.  
  • Seek supervision and support when complications arise in dealing with a patient either in an individual or group setting. 
  • Enforce safety rules to prevent injury and modify activities to suit the needs of specific groups.  
  • Organize and set up the equipment that is used in recreational activities.  
  • Demonstrate a positive, empathetic and professional attitude towards customers always. When patient needs are not met, acknowledge and work to resolve complaints. Recognize that patient safety is a top priority. 

OTHER FUNCTIONS:  

  • Perform other functions and tasks as assigned. 
Qualifications

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILL REQUIREMENTS: 

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.   
  • Associate's degree in activity therapy or related field preferred. 
  • Previous experience in recreation in a healthcare setting with knowledge of patient population served by the facility also preferred. 

 

LICENSES/DESIGNATIONS/CERTIFICATIONS:  

  • CPR and de-escalation/restraint certification required (training available upon hire and offered by facility). 
  • First aid may be required based on state or facility. 

We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment regardless of an individual's characteristics protected by applicable state, federal and local laws.

CVBH

Employment Type: OTHER