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Activity Director Jobs in Rutherford, NJ (NOW HIRING)

Heartshare

Activity Specialist

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$18.28/hr

Provide direct supervision of youth activities * Submit weekly activity plans * Lead activities related to recreation and theme-based such as (Arts, Dance, STEM, Literacy, Nutrition, or Organized ...

NEW SETTLEMENT

Activity Specialist

Bronx, NY

$18 - $28/hr

Reporting to the Program Director, the Activity Specialist teaches, nurtures and encourages a group of about 15-25 students in the elementary school by being a positive role model. Program hours are ...

Heartshare

Activity Specialist

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$18.28/hr

Provide direct supervision of youth activities * Submit weekly activity plans * Lead activities related to recreation and theme-based such as (Arts, Dance, STEM, Literacy, Nutrition, or Organized ...

NEW YORK EDGE, INC

Activity Specialist

Hollis, NY · On-site

Activity Instructors collaborate closely with the Curriculum & Instruction team and Program Directors to ensure smooth daily operations. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS * Build positive relationships with ...

Westhab Inc.

Activity Specialist

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

PROGRAM DIRECTOR SUMMARY : The Activity Specialist delivers targeted, structured programming in an area of personal expertise (i.e specific sport or art medium) through a Positive Youth Development ...

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Activity Director information

See Rutherford, NJ salary details

$12

$24

$42

How much do activity director jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for activity director in Rutherford, NJ is $24.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.61 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Activity Directors?

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 jobs make 5000 a week without a degree?

For an Activity Director, earning $5,000 a week without a degree is uncommon, as most roles in this field have lower pay and require specific certifications or experience. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree typically include specialized sales, real estate brokers, or entrepreneurial ventures, but these often depend on performance and market conditions. Most jobs with such high weekly earnings usually require significant experience, skills, or licensing rather than formal education alone.

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 jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

While most activity director roles do not reach $500,000 annually, high-level executives in healthcare, entertainment, or corporate wellness programs can earn such salaries through bonuses and profit sharing. Typically, these roles require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership responsibilities, often in large organizations or specialized sectors.

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 background in recreation, leisure studies, or a related field. Relevant skills include strong communication, organization, and creativity, and some positions may require certification or experience working with specific populations such as seniors or individuals with disabilities.

What are the duties of an activities director?

An activities director plans, organizes, and oversees recreational and social activities for residents or clients, such as games, outings, and events. They assess participants' interests, coordinate schedules, and ensure activities promote engagement and well-being, often working in settings like senior centers or healthcare facilities. Strong organizational and communication skills are essential for success in this role.
More about Activity Director jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Activity jobs in Rutherford, NJ? The most popular types of Activity jobs in Rutherford, NJ are:
What job categories do people searching Activity Director jobs in Rutherford, NJ look for? The top searched job categories for Activity Director jobs in Rutherford, NJ are:
What cities near Rutherford, NJ are hiring for Activity Director jobs? Cities near Rutherford, NJ with the most Activity Director job openings:
Activity Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Activity Director job openings in Rutherford, NJ as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,023 per year, or $24 per hour.

Activity Specialist

HEARTSHARE HUMAN SERVICES OF NEW YORK

Brooklyn, NY

$18.28/hr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

HeartShare Human Services of New York rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

HeartShare St. Vincent’s Services (HSVS) is currently seeking Summer Activity Specialists & Adult Activity Specialist to plan, lead, and supervise recreational and theme-based activities for participants in our Summer Camp program and Adult (Art-Focused) programming. The Summer Activity Specialists role plays a key part in creating a safe, engaging, and enriching environment that supports youth development and promotes positive experiences throughout the summer from July - August 2026. The Adult Activity Specialist (Art-Focused) is responsible for planning, coordinating, and leading engaging art-based activities for adult participants. This role fosters creativity, self-expression, and social interaction through a variety of artistic mediums while creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment.

Summer Activity Specialists must be available to work Monday - Friday, 9-6 PM.

Adult Activity Specialists must be available to work Monday - Friday, 2-6 PM.(September-June) 6-8 PM (July-August)

Primary Responsibilities and Essential Functions of Position:

  • Assist in the development of age-appropriate activities in one or more discipline or content area
  • Provide direct supervision of youth activities
  • Submit weekly activity plans
  • Lead activities related to recreation and theme-based such as (Arts, Dance, STEM, Literacy, Nutrition, or Organized sports.
  • Assist in maintaining daily attendance records for program participants
  • Assist in the provision of basic counseling services as needed (peer mediation, self-control, decision making)
  • Accompany youth on cultural and recreational field trips
  • Assist in ensuring a safe environment for program participants
  • Foster a positive, inclusive, and supportive atmosphere; Collaborate with other staff members to coordinate group activities
  • Actively participate in all professional development sessions, supervision, and team meetings
  • Maintain and organize activities and equipmen

Additionally, the Primary Responsibilities and Essential Functions of the Adult Activity Specialist Position:

  • Plan and implement structured, theme-based art activities aligned with Cornerstone program goals (e.g., community voice, cultural expression, wellness)
  • Facilitate a variety of art forms, including painting, drawing, crafts, mixed media, and group art projects
  • Create inclusive, participant-centered activities that reflect the interests and cultures of the community
  • Encourage social interaction, collaboration, and self-expression among participants
  • Adapt activities to meet the needs of diverse populations, including older adults and individuals with varying abilities
  • Maintain a safe, welcoming, and respectful program environment
  • Prepare and manage materials, ensuring proper use and storage of supplies
  • Track attendance, document participation, and contribute to program reports as required by DYCD
  • Support outreach efforts by promoting activities and encouraging consistent participation
  • Collaborate with other staff to support intergenerational and community-wide events
  • Assist in the development of age-appropriate activities in one or more disciplines or content areas
  • Provide direct supervision of youth activities
  • Assist in maintaining daily attendance records for program participants
  • Assist in the provision of basic counseling services as needed (peer mediation, self-control, decision making)
  • Accompany Adults on cultural and recreational field trips
  • Assist in ensuring a safe environment for program participants
  • Actively participate in all professional development sessions, supervision, and team meetings
  • High School diploma (Required)
  • Associate's degree in child development, recreation, or a related field (preferred)
  • Minimum of 1-2 years' experience working with youth in child development, recreation, or a related fiel

Heartshare is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). If you need to request accommodation during the recruiting process, please reach out to Leaves@heartshare.org.

About Heartshare

Who WE ARE:

For over 150 years, Heartshare has been dedicated to championing and empowering New Yorkers society has too often overlooked and underestimated.

To learn more about HeartShare, please visit our website at www.heartshare.org or follow us on Twitter LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Facebook

Heartshare Human Services of New York | Homepage

Heartshare Human Services of New York nurtures and empowers children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

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