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Activity Director Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Activities Leader

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$14 - $16/hr

... activity director and other departments (schedules, food, room arrangements, escort assistance, and transportation). * Involves residents in planning, developing, and evaluating the activities ...

Activities Assistant

Salem, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Leads or assists with group activities under the supervision of the Director * Provides and plans activities for each individual to include music, sensory stimulation, touch and tactile therapy ...

Activities Assistant

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

$14 - $18.81/hr

Experience in directing individual and group activities * Prior healthcare experience * A valid VA driver's license * Ability to understand both written and verbal instructions * Must be able to work ...

Activity Staff

Poquoson, VA · On-site

$12.50 - $15/hr

Plan, organize and direct Activity Department fund raising events. * Develop and distribute a monthly calendar of events. Provide a copy of the calendar in each resident's room, and at least one ...

Plan, organize and direct Activity Department fund raising events. * Maintain detailed records of activity programs and participation of individual residents, identifying progress toward established ...

Showing results 41-60

Activity Director information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$23

$41

How much do activity director jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for activity director in Virginia is $23.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $24.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an activity director?

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 are the duties of an activity director?

An activity director plans, organizes, and oversees recreational and social activities for residents or clients, often in settings like senior centers or healthcare facilities. They assess participants' interests, develop engaging programs, and coordinate events to promote socialization and well-being, requiring good communication and organizational skills.

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 activity directors?

Activity directors are in demand in healthcare and senior living facilities, as they play a key role in enhancing residents' quality of life through organized activities. Employment opportunities are expected to grow due to the aging population and increased focus on patient and resident engagement. Relevant skills include creativity, communication, and certification in activity planning or recreation therapy.

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.

Do you need a degree to be an activity director?

A degree is not always required to become an activity director, but many employers prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills in activity planning, communication, and sometimes certification in activities or recreation are important for the role.
More about Activity Director jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Activity jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Activity jobs in Virginia are:
What job categories do people searching Activity Director jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Activity Director jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Activity Director jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Activity Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Activity Director job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, and 35% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,649 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Activities Assistant

Blue Ridge Health and Rehabilitation

Harrisonburg, VA • On-site

$14 - $16.75/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Activities Assistant

Eastern Health Group is a family of skilled nursing facilities and rehabilitation centers. We are resident-centered and quality-focused! Our workplace culture is all about uplifting people. If you are looking for a healthcare organization where you can bring your best "you" to work, where you can make a difference, and where you can team-up with like-minded co-workers, then we are also looking for you. Join us! 

We are currently seeking an an Activities Assistant to join our team. 

While working here, you will enjoy:

  • Employee Engagement Activities
  • Positive work environment
  • Excellent Training
  • Competitive Pay and Benefits

Responsibilities of the Activities Assistant:

  • Assist in the development, organization, and implementation of a program of activities to meet the social, emotional, physical and other therapeutic needs of residents as identified on the resident’s plan of care and within the specified budget.
  • Assist in the initiation and promotion of activities both within the facility and outside the facility, as weather permits, ensuring the safety and well being of each resident at all times.
  • Coordinate and verify that assistance is provided to residents for activities and events as necessary.
  • Provide in room activities for residents who are unable to attend daily events.
  • Assist in the creation of an ongoing calendar of activities that creatively meets multiple needs and is accessible and appealing to both men and women of all ages and abilities.
  • Consistently maintain standards for activity scheduling and documentation established by policies and regulatory requirements.
  • Solicit the involvement of the community (clubs, groups, organizations, agencies, churches, individuals, etc.) when planning facility activities and events.
  • Assist in the planning, organizing and directing of the Activity Department fund raising events.
  • Maintain detailed records of activity programs and participation of individual residents, identifying progress toward established care plan goals.
  • Participate in resident care planning by identifying the activity needs of residents in accordance with the medical assessment.
  • Develop and distribute a monthly calendar of events. Provide a copy of the calendar in each resident’s room, and at least one large calendar prominently displayed in the facility.
  • Maintain a pictorial scrapbook of activities and events sponsored by the facility during the year.
  • Develop and maintain an active volunteer program through marketing, development, support, and organization. Encourage participation by residents, family members, staff, visitors, community groups and individuals. Assign and train volunteers and maintain documentation of volunteer hours. Reward volunteers for service annually and at other special events.
  • Train groups of volunteers and students in techniques of recreational therapy.
  • Prepare progress notes for medical staff reflecting residents’ reactions and evidence of progress or regression.
  • Maintain all activity related records required by regulations and Medical Records – activity assessments, progress notes, and discharge summary.
  • Assist the residents with organizing and maintaining active Resident Council. Provide accommodation, assistance, scheduling, and other means to assure that residents have the opportunity to meet a minimum of one time per month. Channel feedback from Resident council to the appropriate facility personnel to insure that resident issues are dealt with in a timely and efficient manner. Document minutes of Resident Council meetings as well as follow-up to any concerns expressed at the meeting.

Requirements/Qualifications of the Activities Assistant:

  • High school diploma or GED required or equivalent related work experience.
  • Six (6) months to one (1) year experience or related experience performing activity related duties.
  • Ability to assume leadership role in the Activity Department in the absence of the Activity Director.
  • Effective verbal and written English communication skills.
  • Outstanding interpersonal skills with high level of energy and enthusiasm.
  • Experience in working with volunteers and ability to organize and develop volunteer program.
  • Ability to communicate at all levels of organization and work well within a team environment in support of company objectives.
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy, excellent organizational skills with ability to prioritize, coordinate and simultaneously maintain multiple projects with high level of quality and productivity.
  • Ability to work with minimal supervision, take initiative and make independent decisions.
  • Approachable, flexible and adaptable to change.
  • Function independently, and have flexibility, personal integrity, and the ability to work effectively with employees and vendors.