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Activity Director Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Implement activity procedures as directed by the Activity Director by creating decorations, setting up necessary equipment, creating ceramics, needlework, woodwork and other crafts, escorting ...

Director of Life Enrichment (Activities Director) Bring Joy, Purpose, and Meaning to Every Day Do you have a passion for enriching the lives of older adults? We are seeking an energetic ...

Activities Assistant

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

General Purpose The primary purpose of the Activity Assistant is to assist the Activity Director run a creative and interactive activities program. This must be done in accordance with current ...

Activities Assistant - PRN

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

General Purpose The primary purpose of the Activity Assistant is to assist the Activity Director run a creative and interactive activities program. This must be done in accordance with current ...

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Activity Director information

See Arizona salary details

$10

$21

$38

How much do activity director jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for activity director in Arizona is $21.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.02 and $23.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Activity Directors?

Activity Directors are professionals responsible for planning, organizing, and leading recreational and social activities, typically in settings such as senior living communities, nursing homes, or rehabilitation centers. Their goal is to enhance the quality of life for participants by providing engaging programs that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. They assess residents' interests and abilities, develop activity calendars, and often coordinate events with volunteers or other staff. Activity Directors also document participation and may adapt activities to meet the needs of individuals with varying abilities.

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

To thrive as an Activity Director, you need strong organizational skills, creativity, and experience in planning group activities, often supported by a degree in recreation, social work, or a related field. Familiarity with scheduling software, budgeting tools, and sometimes certifications like ADC (Activity Director Certified) are common requirements. Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills help motivate participants and collaborate with staff and families. These abilities are crucial for developing engaging programs that enhance participant well-being and meet regulatory standards.

What jobs make $500,000 a year?

In general, high-paying jobs that can reach or exceed $500,000 annually include specialized roles such as senior executives, surgeons, anesthesiologists, and certain investment bankers. These positions often require advanced education, extensive experience, and sometimes ownership or performance-based bonuses. For activity directors, salaries typically range lower, but those in executive or entrepreneurial roles within the healthcare or hospitality industries may approach higher income levels with experience and additional responsibilities.

How does an Activity Director typically collaborate with nursing and therapy staff in a senior living facility?

An Activity Director works closely with nursing and therapy teams to ensure that planned activities are safe, appropriate, and tailored to residents' physical and cognitive abilities. Regular meetings and ongoing communication help coordinate schedules, adapt activities for varying health needs, and support residents' overall well-being. This collaboration ensures that activities not only provide enjoyment but also align with care plans and therapeutic goals. Building strong relationships with these teams is essential for creating a supportive and engaging environment for residents.

Is there a demand for activities directors?

There is steady demand for activities directors in healthcare, senior living, and recreational facilities, as organizations seek to improve quality of life for residents and clients. The role often requires strong interpersonal skills, creativity, and sometimes certification, with employment opportunities expected to grow alongside the aging population and increased focus on wellness programs.

Do you need a degree to be an activities director?

A degree is not always required to become an activities director, but many employers prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills such as organization, communication, and creativity are important, and some positions may benefit from certifications in activities or recreation management.

What is the difference between Activity Director vs Recreation Therapist?

AspectActivity DirectorRecreation Therapist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certification in activity planningDegree in recreation therapy, therapeutic recreation, or related field; certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentSenior living communities, nursing homes, adult day programsHealthcare settings, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, senior care facilities
Employer & IndustryLong-term care, assisted living, senior centersHealthcare, mental health, rehabilitation, senior care

While both roles focus on engaging clients through activities, Recreation Therapists have specialized training to develop therapeutic programs that address health and recovery goals. Activity Directors primarily plan recreational activities to enhance quality of life. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are the duties of an activities director?

An activities director plans, organizes, and oversees recreational and social activities for residents or clients, often in settings like senior centers, nursing homes, or community organizations. They assess participants' interests, coordinate events, and ensure activities promote engagement and well-being. Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills are essential for this role.
More about Activity Director jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Activity jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Activity jobs in Arizona are:
What are popular job titles related to Activity Director jobs in Arizona? For Activity Director jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Activity Director jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Activity Director jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Activity Director jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Activity Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Activity Director job openings in Arizona 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 $45,727 per year, or $22 per hour.

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Description


The Mission at Agua Fria Senior Living Community is currently seeking an Activity Director to be responsible for planning and implementing programs and events which provide socialization opportunities, fitness and wellness activities, educational and recreational programs, as well as spiritual life support based on the needs and preferences of the residents.



Responsibilities:

  • Plans, develops and implements resident lifestyle programming within the community as well as through outside trips and events.
  • Surveys and interviews residents to determine their past and present interests and talents, as well as their satisfaction with the community's programs and activities.
  • Recognizes the individuality, diversity, and spirituality of all residents when planning activities and celebrating holiday functions.
  • Develops relationships with residents to encourage their participation in activities that enhance their quality of and appreciation of life.
  • Observes residents' function and behavior and reports significant changes or concerns to appropriate staff.
  • Performs work tasks in a manner that preserves each resident's dignity, privacy and confidentiality.
  • Utilizes outside community resources and independent contractors to enrich the variety of programs made available to residents.
  • Develops and manages the annual department budget.
  • Documents and maintains all records as required to effectively manage the department.
  • Secures and maintains all department supplies and equipment.
  • Develops and distributes the resident newsletter/calendar and other lifestyle programming communications on a regular and monthly basis.
  • Works with Assisted Living department manager in planning daily activities for Assisted Living residents when applicable.
  • Coordinates outings and weekly transportation schedule with the transportation department.
  • Transports residents and performs community errands as assigned and ensures that all residents who use the transportation are returned safely to the building.
  • Assists all residents in and out of the vehicle.
  • May, in consultation with the Executive Director, hire, train, discipline and terminate departmental employees per company policy.
  • Works cooperatively with all other departments in planning shared events.
  • Coordinates volunteers, including their recruitment and training.
  • Maintains an inviting, functional and organized program area, including appropriate and seasonal decoration of display areas.
  • Carries out all responsibilities to residents, families and coworkers in a friendly, courteous and professional manner.
  • Oversee Transportation Department.
  • Ensures corporate transportation policies are followed.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

  • 2+ years of experience in planning and directing activities for elderly residents, and in planning and organizing special programs for residents, families and staff.
  • Good verbal communication skills, including ability to give directions to others in a manner that is pleasant and easily understood.
  • Ability to display enthusiasm and a positive attitude in promoting activities, and in enlisting the support of facility team members for activity programming.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license.
  • Safe driving record in accordance with company policy.
  • Bachelor's Degree or equivalent.
  • Other common tittles: Life Enrichment Director, Community Lifestyle, Recreational Therapy, Lifestyle Director, Director of Activities.



Our Perks & Benefits: Taking care of our clients and residents starts with taking care of our team. Tarantino is committed to each team member's health, wealth, and overall well-being. We deeply value the contributions of our employees and offer various benefits to ensure that our extraordinary team is taken care of.

  • Competitive Pay
  • Medical and Rx
  • Paid Time Off
  • Retirement and 401k
  • Short-Term Disability
  • Long-Term Disability
  • Voluntary Life
  • Vision
  • Dental