ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Activity Director Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Aliyah Health Center

Activity Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

) Activity Director ALIYA Healthcare is seeking a motivated and creative Activity Director to lead the planning and execution of engaging programs that enhance our residents' quality of life. This role ...

Chateau Nursing and Rehab

Activity Director

Dyer, IN · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Now hiring an Activity Director to join our team! We are looking for high level activity talent to bring the daily living experience to new levels for our residents/patients. One of the most ...

Aliyah Health Center

Activity Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Activity Director ALIYA Healthcare is seeking a motivated and creative Activity Director to lead the planning and execution of engaging programs that enhance our residents' quality of life. This role ...

ALIYA Healthcare Consulting

Activity Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Activity Director ALIYA Healthcare is seeking a motivated and creative Activity Director to lead the planning and execution of engaging programs that enhance our residents' quality of life. This role ...

Central Nursing Home

Activity Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

The Activities Director plays an important role in creating a welcoming and engaging environment for our residents. This position is responsible for developing and coordinating programs that support ...

Central Nursing Home

Activity Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

The Activities Director plays an important role in creating a welcoming and engaging environment for our residents. This position is responsible for developing and coordinating programs that support ...

Central Nursing Home

Activity Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

The Activities Director plays an important role in creating a welcoming and engaging environment for our residents. This position is responsible for developing and coordinating programs that support ...

Legacy Healthcare

Activity Director

La Grange Park, IL · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

As an Activity Director you are responsible for our residents' emotional and social wellbeing. Your work will ensure our residents receive the high standard of care they have grown to expect at The ...

The Grove La Grange Park

Activity Director

La Grange Park, IL · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

As an Activity Director you are responsible for our residents' emotional and social wellbeing. Your work will ensure our residents receive the high standard of care they have grown to expect at The ...

Legacy Health Care

Activity Director

La Grange Park, IL · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

As an Activity Director you are responsible for our residents' emotional and social wellbeing. Your work will ensure our residents receive the high standard of care they have grown to expect at The ...

LINEAGE HEALTHCARE

Activity

Chicago, IL

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Purpose of the Position The primary purpose of the position is to assist the Activity Director in developing and conducting therapeutic recreation programs in accordance with current federal, state ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsActivity JobsActivity Director JobsActivity Director Jobs in Chicago, IL

Activity Director information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$24

$43

How much do activity director jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for activity director in Chicago, IL is $24.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $25.77 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.

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.

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 such as communication, organization, and experience working with seniors or in recreational activities are important, and some positions may require certification in activities or therapeutic recreation.

How much does an activity director make?

In Wisconsin, activity directors typically earn an average annual salary of around $35,000 to $45,000, depending on experience and setting. Salaries can vary based on the type of facility, certifications, and workload, with some positions offering additional benefits or bonuses.

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, coordinate events, and ensure activities promote engagement and well-being, typically requiring good communication skills and organizational abilities.
More about Activity Director jobs

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 Director jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Activity Director jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Activity Director jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Activity Director jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Activity Director jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Activity Director job openings:

Activity Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Activity Director job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,549 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Activity Director

Aliyah Health Center

Chicago, IL • On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

) Activity Director
ALIYA Healthcare is seeking a motivated and creative Activity Director to lead the planning and execution of engaging programs that enhance our residents' quality of life. This role is responsible for creating a positive, energetic environment where residents can thrive socially, mentally, and physically.
Responsibilities:
  • Plan, organize, and oversee individual and group activities for residents
  • Develop and manage monthly and weekly activity calendars based on resident interests and needs
  • Lead and supervise activity staff, aides, and volunteers
  • Ensure consistent resident engagement and participation in programs
  • Maintain accurate documentation, attendance records, and resident assessments
  • Coordinate special events, community outings, and holiday programs
  • Collaborate with nursing and therapy teams to support a well-rounded resident experience
  • Manage activity department supplies, budget, and inventory
  • Ensure activity programs comply with state and federal regulations
  • Maintain organized, safe, and engaging activity spaces

Benefits:
  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Life Insurance
  • Critical Illness Insurance
  • Short-Term Disability Insurance
  • Accident Insurance
  • Hospital Indemnity Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
  • On-Demand Pay Option
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program

Qualifications:
  • Certified Activity Director (required)
  • High school diploma required; degree in Recreation Therapy or related field preferred
  • Previous experience leading activities in a healthcare or SNF setting required
  • Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
  • Ability to develop and lead engaging resident programs
  • Compassionate, energetic, and resident-focused approach

Apply