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Activity Director Jobs in Meridian, MS (NOW HIRING)

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Activity Director information

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$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 Meridian, MS is $23.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.93 and $24.52 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
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What cities near Meridian, MS are hiring for Activity Director jobs? Cities near Meridian, MS with the most Activity Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Activity Director job openings in Meridian, MS as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, and 19% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,132 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Direct Support Professional Shift A-7p

Brandi's Hope Community Services

Meridian, MS โ€ข On-site

$17.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Are you patient, kind, caring, down-to-earth? Do you love arts & crafts, swimming, basketball, music, movies and dancing? Are you the type of person who is willing to put the needs of the person you support as the primary focus of your attention while at work? If so, this may be the job for you! Brandi's Hope is looking for a Direct Support professionals. If you believe everyone, regardless of abilities/disabilities, should have a choice for a meaningful life you might be just the right person. The right Direct Support Professional should possess strong interactive skills and a positive, creative, and energetic attitude to support people with intellectual/developmental disabilities who has challenging communication and behaviors. Good communication and a team oriented outlook are necessary attributes for success. Full benefit package for qualified applicants. All applicants must be at least 18 years of age, possess a high school diploma or equivalency, minimum two years experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities, valid driver's license and pass background checks. We have several shifts available so please contact Brandi's Hope.The starting pay for this position is $10.00 per hour with a set, guaranteed schedule of 45 hour per week. For DSPs the rate for overtime is $15.00. DSPs are given 3 hours of unworked overtime pay for perfect attendance each week after they have worked 42 hours. This makes the DSP rate of pay for worked hours $11.31 per hour. After the successful completion of orientation, the base rate of pay will increase to $11.50 per hour, overtime rate of $17.25 and the rate of pay for hours worked is now $13.01.This position is for a Direct Support Professional (Days) Hours: Wednesday 1pm to 7pm and Thursday, Friday, Saturday 8am - 8pm Duties include, but not limited to: Provide daily support to individuals with varying degrees of development/intellectual disabilities. Will assist these persons within the following areas: job supports, self-care, recreational activities and community inclusion. Depending on need of client a DSP may be expected to transport to appointments, report to work assignment with client as a job advocate or could be assisting with feeding and hygiene. Duties will be discussed with employer. Qualifications: High School diploma or GED, Minimum of One (1) year of verifiable work experience in the last three (3) years, must possess a current, valid drivers license in order to transport clients as needed, must possess current CPR training, must submit to an extensive background check and drug screening before employment offer can be made.