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Activity Director Jobs in Shellsburg, IA (NOW HIRING)

Activity Assistant

Marion, IA ยท On-site

$15 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Reports To Activity Director or Executive Director Employment Status Full-Time or Part-Time Essential Duties and Responsibilities * Assist in planning, organizing, and conducting daily activities for ...

Abbe Health Activity Specialist

Marion, IA ยท On-site

$18 - $24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Performs laundry, housekeeping, direct care, and other duties as assigned. May drive participants ... activities for elderly, developmentally disabled, and/or mentally ill, required CPR Certification ...

Abbe Health Activity Specialist

Marion, IA ยท On-site

$18 - $24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Performs laundry, housekeeping, direct care, and other duties as assigned. May drive participants ... activities for elderly, developmentally disabled, and/or mentally ill, required CPR Certification ...

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Activity Director information

See Shellsburg, IA salary details

$10

$21

$38

How much do activity director jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for activity director in Shellsburg, IA is $21.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $23.03 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

What job categories do people searching Activity Director jobs in Shellsburg, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Activity Director jobs in Shellsburg, IA are:

What cities near Shellsburg, IA are hiring for Activity Director jobs?

Cities near Shellsburg, IA with the most Activity Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Activity Director job openings in Shellsburg, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,180 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Activity Assistant

The Views of Marion

Marion, IA โ€ข On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Activity Assistant

The Views Senior Living of Marion

Position Summary

The Activity Assistant is responsible for assisting with the planning, coordination, and implementation of meaningful activities and events that enhance the physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and cognitive well-being of residents. The Activity Assistant helps create a warm, engaging environment that promotes resident choice, independence, dignity, and quality of life while encouraging participation in a variety of recreational and therapeutic programs.

Reports To

Activity Director or Executive Director

Employment Status

Full-Time or Part-Time

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Assist in planning, organizing, and conducting daily activities for residents in Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Skilled Nursing as assigned.
  • Encourage resident participation while respecting each resident's interests, preferences, and abilities.
  • Provide one-on-one visits with residents who are unable or unwilling to participate in group activities.
  • Assist with crafts, games, exercise classes, music programs, educational events, holiday celebrations, and community outings.
  • Help decorate the community for holidays, special events, and seasonal celebrations.
  • Assist with transporting residents to and from activities when appropriate.
  • Prepare activity supplies and clean up following programs.
  • Maintain activity calendars, attendance records, and documentation as required.
  • Support resident birthdays, family events, volunteer programs, and community partnerships.
  • Communicate resident interests and concerns to the interdisciplinary team.
  • Observe residents during activities and report any changes in physical or emotional condition to nursing staff.
  • Assist with setting up and serving refreshments during activities as needed.
  • Ensure activity areas remain clean, organized, and safe.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED preferred.
  • Previous experience working with older adults is preferred but not required.
  • Experience with dementia care is preferred.
  • Valid driver's license may be required for transportation of residents.
  • Ability to work independently while also functioning as part of a multidisciplinary team.
  • Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
  • Creative, energetic, patient, and compassionate personality.
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
  • Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 30 pounds.
  • Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, and reach frequently.
  • Ability to assist residents with mobility during activities.
  • Ability to work both indoors and outdoors during community events.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Excellent customer service skills.
  • Ability to build positive relationships with residents, families, staff, and volunteers.
  • Strong time management and organizational abilities.
  • Ability to adapt activities for varying levels of physical and cognitive functioning.
  • Basic computer skills for documentation and communication.
  • Understanding of resident rights, confidentiality, and person-centered care.
Working Conditions
  • Indoor and outdoor work environments.
  • Weekend, evening, and holiday hours may be required based on activity schedules.
  • Frequent interaction with residents, family members, visitors, and staff.
Core Values

The Activity Assistant is expected to:

  • Treat every resident with dignity, respect, kindness, and compassion.
  • Promote independence and resident choice.
  • Foster a positive, welcoming, and engaging community environment.
  • Maintain confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA regulations.
  • Demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, accountability, and integrity.
Benefits (for eligible employees)
  • Competitive Pay
  • Flexible Scheduling
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Paid Time Off
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) Employer Match
Equal Employment Opportunity

The Views Senior Living of Marion is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all employees are treated with respect and provided equal opportunities for employment and advancement regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.


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