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Activity Director Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

The DSP I provides direct support, assistance with activities of daily living, community integration, and skill-building while maintaining a safe, supportive, and person-centered environment. Key ...

The DSP I provides direct support, assistance with activities of daily living, community integration, and skill-building while maintaining a safe, supportive, and person-centered environment. Key ...

The DSP I provides direct support, assistance with activities of daily living, community integration, and skill-building while maintaining a safe, supportive, and person-centered environment. Key ...

The DSP I provides direct support, assistance with activities of daily living, community integration, and skill-building while maintaining a safe, supportive, and person-centered environment. Key ...

Direct Support Professional

Merced, CA · On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Take initiative to help participants be part of the community and enjoy their favorite activities ... Six months of experience in human services, direct care, or care coordination preferred * Skills:

Direct Support Professional

Merced, CA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Take initiative to help participants be part of the community and enjoy their favorite activities ... Six months of experience in human services, direct care, or care coordination preferred * Skills:

Direct Support Professional

Merced, CA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Take initiative to help participants be part of the community and enjoy their favorite activities ... Six months of experience in human services, direct care, or care coordination preferred * Skills:

Direct Support Professional

Merced, CA · On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Take initiative to help participants be part of the community and enjoy their favorite activities ... Six months of experience in human services, direct care, or care coordination preferred * Skills:

Direct Support Professional

Merced, CA · On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Take initiative to help participants be part of the community and enjoy their favorite activities ... Six months of experience in human services, direct care, or care coordination preferred * Skills:

Direct Support Professional

Merced, CA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Take initiative to help participants be part of the community and enjoy their favorite activities ... Six months of experience in human services, direct care, or care coordination preferred * Skills:

Be Seen First

Responsible for assisting/training clients with activities of daily living i.e. bathing, eating, and grooming. Follows care plan for treatment. Transports and accompanies clients to program related ...

Be Seen First

Responsible for assisting/training clients with activities of daily living i.e. bathing, eating, and grooming. Follows care plan for treatment. Transports and accompanies clients to program related ...

Building Official

Los Banos, CA · On-site

$125K - $159K/yr

Exercises direct supervision over professional, technical, and administrative support staff. Detailed Work Activities EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES Duties may include, but are not limited to, the ...

Building Official

Los Banos, CA · On-site

$125K - $159K/yr

Exercises direct supervision over professional, technical, and administrative support staff. Detailed Work Activities EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES Duties may include, but are not limited to, the ...

Showing results 41-60

Activity Director information

See Merced, CA salary details

$12

$24

$44

How much do activity director jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for activity director in Merced, CA is $24.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.28 and $26.39 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 Merced, CA?

The most popular types of Activity jobs in Merced, CA are:

What job categories do people searching Activity Director jobs in Merced, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Activity Director jobs in Merced, CA are:

What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Activity Director jobs?

Cities near Merced, CA with the most Activity Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Activity Director job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 13% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,819 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Kings View

Atwater, CA

$19.50 - $20.69/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Kings View rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description

Direct Support Professional (DSP) I


Location: Atwater, CA
Position Type: Full-Time, Benefited | Non-Exempt
Salary Range: $19.50- $20.69 per hour
Join Our Mission
At Kings View, every role contributes to something bigger — improving lives and strengthening communities. We are committed to providing behavioral health and social services to those with limited resources, guided by compassion, excellence, and respect.
Position Overview:
Kings View is seeking a Direct Support Professional (DSP) I to support individuals with developmental disabilities in achieving their goals and maximizing independence through implementation of Individual Support Plans (ISPs).
The DSP I provides direct support, assistance with activities of daily living, community integration, and skill-building while maintaining a safe, supportive, and person-centered environment.
Key Responsibilities:
• Provide support and assistance to participants based on Individual Support Plans
• Assist individuals with hygiene, toileting, feeding, and daily living activities
• Observe, assess, and report concerns impacting participant well-being
• Support positive behavioral interventions and healthy group dynamics
• Transport participants to appointments, outings, and community activities
• Conduct and document vehicle inspections and report maintenance concerns
• Maintain accurate and timely participant documentation
• Participate in team meetings, IDT meetings, and required trainings
• Maintain facility cleanliness and safe environments
• Perform additional duties assigned to support program success
What You’ll Bring:
Required Qualifications:
• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Adult First Aid and CPR certification
• Valid California Driver’s License (Class C)
Required Skills:
• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities and maintain organization
• Ability to implement support plans and behavioral interventions
• Ability to work flexible schedules
Preferred Qualifications:
• Six (6) months direct support or related experience preferred
• Experience utilizing assistive devices and adaptive equipment preferred
Professional Attributes:
• Compassionate and empathetic
• Reliable and self-disciplined
• Flexible and adaptable
• Team-oriented and professional
Pre-Employment Requirements:
• Background check and criminal record clearance
• Physical examination and TB test
• Drug screening if applicable
Equal Opportunity Employer:
Kings View is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
ADA Statement:
Reasonable accommodations will be provided in accordance with applicable laws.
 


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