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Activity Director Jobs in Manchester, CT (NOW HIRING)

Ivy at Ellington (MRC)

Activity Assistant

Ellington, CT

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Observe engagement levels and communicate insights to the Activity Director * Support a culture of teamwork and collective ownership You are not just filling seats. You are building confidence. You ...

Ivy at Ellington (MRC)

Activity Assistant

Ellington, CT · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Observe engagement levels and communicate insights to the Activity Director * Support a culture of teamwork and collective ownership You are not just filling seats. You are building confidence. You ...

Ivy at Ellington (MRC)

Activity Assistant

Ellington, CT · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Observe engagement levels and communicate insights to the Activity Director * Support a culture of teamwork and collective ownership You are not just filling seats. You are building confidence. You ...

Ivy at Ellington (MRC)

Activity Assistant

Ellington, CT

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Observe engagement levels and communicate insights to the Activity Director * Support a culture of teamwork and collective ownership You are not just filling seats. You are building confidence. You ...

Grandview Healthcare Center

Activities Aide

New Britain, CT

$14.25 - $18.75/hr

Attend required meetings and in-service education. * Assist with additional activity-related duties as assigned by the Activities Director. Minimum QualificationsEducation * High school diploma or ...

Charter Senior Living

Activity Assistant

Bristol, CT · On-site

$17/hr

This role works closely with the Life Enrichment Director to help create meaningful experiences ... Prepare activity spaces and supplies for scheduled programming * Maintain activity calendars and ...

Hearth Management

Activity Assistant

Glastonbury, CT

$15 - $18/hr

The Activities Assistant is responsible for creating an active and home like atmosphere while planning, organizing, and implementing activities for the residents in accordance with Hearth's LIVE MORE ...

Hearth Management

Activity Assistant

Glastonbury, CT · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

The Activities Assistant is responsible for creating an active and home like atmosphere while planning, organizing, and implementing activities for the residents in accordance with Hearth's LIVE MORE ...

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Activity Director information

See Manchester, CT salary details

$11

$23

$42

How much do activity director jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for activity director in Manchester, CT is $23.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.46 and $25.24 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 Manchester, CT?

The most popular types of Activity jobs in Manchester, CT are:

What job categories do people searching Activity Director jobs in Manchester, CT look for?

The top searched job categories for Activity Director jobs in Manchester, CT are:

What cities near Manchester, CT are hiring for Activity Director jobs?

Cities near Manchester, CT with the most Activity Director job openings:

Activity Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Activity Director job openings in Manchester, CT 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 $49,560 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

Activity Assistant

Ivy at Ellington (MRC)

Ellington, CT

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Activity Assistant

32 Hours a week | Arbors/Ivy Assisted Living Community

At Arbors/Ivy, we believe seniors deserve joy, connection, and purpose — especially in their later years. We are family-centered, integrity-driven, and committed to creating a vibrant community where residents feel known, valued, and excited about each day.

We are looking for an Activity Assistant who understands something important:

Sometimes “no” really means “I’m unsure.”
Sometimes “I don’t want to go” really means “I’m nervous.”

Your job is not to push — but to warmly, respectfully coax. To gently encourage. To spark curiosity. To help residents feel safe enough to step into fun.

This Role Is Perfect For Someone Who:
  • Stays cheerful even when plans change unexpectedly
  • Understands that flexibility is part of the job
  • Doesn’t get flustered when things are out of their control
  • Follows policies and procedures carefully
  • Has a genuine heart for seniors and their final chapters
  • Is friendly, upbeat, and naturally encouraging
  • Knows how to read the room and respond with compassion

Activities don’t always go as planned. Residents may hesitate. Weather may shift. Schedules may change.

Your steady, positive presence is what keeps the energy moving forward.

What You’ll Do
  • Engage, escort, and motivate residents to attend activities
  • Create a welcoming, inclusive environment where everyone feels safe to participate
  • Provide meaningful 1:1 visit for residents who prefer quieter engagement
  • Support programs including arts, music, exercise, games, spiritual gatherings, lectures, and outings
  • Assist residents respectfully and with dignity during activities
  • Drive the community van for trips and excursions (must meet RMV requirements)
  • Observe engagement levels and communicate insights to the Activity Director
  • Support a culture of teamwork and collective ownership

You are not just filling seats.
You are building confidence.
You are helping someone try something new when they’re unsure.
You are protecting joy in a season of life that deeply matters.

You’ll Thrive Here If You:
  • Can pivot quickly without losing your positivity
  • Stay calm when the unexpected happens
  • Believe rules and structure matter
  • Naturally encourage others
  • Take pride in doing things the right way
  • Want your work to have meaning beyond a paycheck
Requirements
  • Associate’s degree preferred or equivalent experience
  • Minimum 1 year experience working with elders (home care, assisted living, or skilled nursing)
  • Dependable, compassionate, and team-oriented
  • Must meet Registry of Motor Vehicle requirements
Benefits
  • PTO
  • Health & Dental Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Short & Long-Term Disability
  • Health & Dependent Care FSA
  • Paid Holidays/Floating Holiday
  • Pet Health Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Programs
  • Retirement Account Assistance
  • Employee Appreciation Programs

At Arbors/Ivy, we do whatever it takes to create excellence in resident experience. We work hard, support one another, and share plenty of laughter along the way.

If you are flexible, cheerful, rule-following, compassionate — and ready to help seniors step into joy even when they’re hesitant — we would love to meet you.

Equal Opportunity Employer
We are an equal opportunity employer and prohibit discrimination/harassment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.