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Activity Director Jobs in Park Ridge, IL (NOW HIRING)

Gardant

Activity Director- 1st shift

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.75 - $27/hr

Leads the Activity team, offering guidance and support through each resident activity and event * Designs and facilitates high-quality recreational and social programs, promoting active participation ...

Alden Village

Activity Aide

Bloomingdale, IL · On-site

$17.25/hr

Responsible for performing the daily activity calendar requirements set by the Activity Director. Required to support and follow the Activity Program's mission, philosophy, policies and procedures ...

The Alden Network

Activity Aide

Naperville, IL · On-site

$18/hr

Responsible for performing the daily activity calendar requirements set by the Activity Director. Required to support and follow the Activity Program's mission, philosophy, policies and procedures ...

The Alden Network

Activity Aide

Aurora, IL · On-site

$18.50/hr

Responsible for performing the daily activity calendar requirements set by the Activity Director. Required to support and follow the Activity Program's mission, philosophy, policies and procedures ...

The Alden Network

Activity Aide

Bloomingdale, IL · On-site

$17.25/hr

Responsible for performing the daily activity calendar requirements set by the Activity Director. Required to support and follow the Activity Program's mission, philosophy, policies and procedures ...

The Alden Network

Activity Aide

Bloomingdale, IL · On-site

$18 - $18.50/hr

Responsible for performing the daily activity calendar requirements set by the Activity Director. Required to support and follow the Activity Program's mission, philosophy, policies and procedures ...

Inverness Health and Rehab

Activity Aide

Inverness, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $19/hr

Activity Aide Job Overview The Activity Assistant will work directly under the supervision of the Activity Director to organize, direct and execute a well-balanced activity program. The program must ...

The Alden Network

Activity Aide

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Responsible for performing the daily activity calendar requirements set by the Activity Director. Required to support and follow the Activity Program's mission, philosophy, policies and procedures ...

Inverness Health and Rehab

Activity Aide

Inverness, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $19/hr

Activity Aide Job Overview The Activity Assistant will work directly under the supervision of the Activity Director to organize, direct and execute a well-balanced activity program. The program must ...

Central Nursing Home

Activity Aide

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15 - $19.50/hr

Other duties as assigned by the Activity Director Qualifications * Genuine interest in working with the elderly and individuals with special needs * Ability to work cooperatively with residents ...

Central Nursing Home

Activity Aide

Chicago, IL

$15 - $19.50/hr

Other duties as assigned by the Activity Director Qualifications * Genuine interest in working with the elderly and individuals with special needs * Ability to work cooperatively with residents ...

Landmark of Itaska (2)

Activity Aide

Itasca, IL

$14 - $18.50/hr

Essential Job Functions: * Assist the Activity Director in carrying out a planned activity program for residents, including planning and implementing engaging activities, events, and programs

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Activity Director information

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How much do activity director jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for activity director in Park Ridge, IL is $23.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.98 and $24.62 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 Park Ridge, IL?

The most popular types of Activity jobs in Park Ridge, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Activity Director jobs in Park Ridge, IL?

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

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

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

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

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

Activity Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Activity Director job openings in Park Ridge, 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 $48,285 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Activity Director- 1st shift

Heritage Woods of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

$19.75 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Responsibilities:

  • Leads the Activity team, offering guidance and support through each resident activity and event
  • Designs and facilitates high-quality recreational and social programs, promoting active participation from residents, family members, employees, and local community
  • Develops and implements a monthly activities calendar, thoughtfully tailored to meet the diverse abilities and preferences of each resident, while documenting participation and progress
  • Oversees the budget and implementation of a cost-effective activities program, including managing an inventory list of equipment and supplies and maximizing resources available
  • Takes the wheel in managing our Community transportation program, including driving our company van on organized outings
  • Fosters empowerment and engagement by coordinating the Resident Council
  • Continuously assesses the activity program impact, making adjustments as needed to ensure the evolving needs and interests of our residents are consistently met
  • Coordinates our Community newsletter as a resource for resident connection and information; reflecting our mission and core values of love, compassion, and dignity

Qualifications:

  • High school graduate or GED equivalent
  • Must hold valid driver's license
  • Minimum age of 21 years or older preferred with driving record in good standing
  • Prior activities/life enrichment experience in a healthcare setting
  • Strong organizational and time-management abilities
  • Must possess leadership skills and the readiness to mentor, motivate, and inspire
  • Demonstrates exceptional communication and interpersonal skills

Benefits:

  • Unlimited growth opportunities
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefit packages available
  • Work-life balance | Paid Time Off
  • EAP & Maven family planning program
  • 401(k) employer match biweekly
  • Self-service payroll
  • Daily pay options available

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