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Activity Director Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Activity Aide

Sherman, IL ยท On-site

$14.25 - $18.75/hr

Implementing facility activities for the residents * Encouraging socialization, providing entertainment, and improving daily living skills * Interacting with residents, families, and the community ...

Summer Day Camp Director

Springfield, IL ยท On-site

$850 - $950/wk

As a Camp Director , you will be the go-to person for all things camp at your specific country club ... Capable of sustaining energy for participation in a full day's worth of activities * Ability to ...

The Finance Director plays a critical role in mergers and acquisitions, capital planning, captive ... Support post-close integration activities including financial systems consolidation and reporting ...

Finance Director

Springfield, IL ยท On-site

$175K - $215K/yr

The Finance Director plays a critical role in mergers and acquisitions, capital planning, captive ... Support post-close integration activities including financial systems consolidation and reporting ...

Summer Day Camp Director

Springfield, IL ยท On-site

$850 - $950/wk

As a Camp Director , you will be the go-to person for all things camp at your specific country club ... Capable of sustaining energy for participation in a full day's worth of activities * Ability to ...

Activity Aide Job Summary: The primary purpose of the Activity Aide is to assist in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of recreational, social, intellectual, emotional, and spiritual ...

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Activity Director information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$10

$21

$38

How much do activity director jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for activity director in Springfield, IL is $21.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $23.12 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 are the most commonly searched types of Activity jobs in Springfield, IL? The most popular types of Activity jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Activity Director jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Activity Director jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Activity Director jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Activity Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Activity Director job openings in Springfield, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,414 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Activity Specialist-Dubois

Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Illinois

Springfield, IL โ€ข On-site

$15/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 hours ago

Posted today


Job description

JOB SUMMARY: Working under the direction of an assigned supervisor, Activity Specialists play an essential role in achieving the Boys amp; Girls Club of Central Illinois (BGCCIL) mission as they directly serve as positive role models, mentors and activity leaders to a diverse group of youth between the ages of 6 to 18 years old. Activity Specialists assist youth daily in acquiring the necessary developmental assets they need to achieve Academic Success, adopt a Healthy Lifestyle and cultivate their Good Character amp; Citizenship.
MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Prepare Youth for Success
โ€ข Learn the names of Members and develop positive relationships with youth.
โ€ข Implement fun activities with high level of energy to attract maximum Member participation
โ€ข Provide guidance, mentoring and role modeling to Members.
โ€ข Support youth in following Club Rules, addressing discipline situations fairly, firmly, consistently and kindly.
โ€ข Respect confidentiality of Members, employees, volunteers and information.
โ€ข Strive to achieve a high standard of professionalism in effective communication, personal motivation, and interpersonal skills with Members, peers, superiors, parents, volunteers and the general public.
2. Implementing amp; Assisting with Planning, Evaluating Programming and Curriculum
โ€ข Implement activities with a high degree of fun to get maximum participation
โ€ข Assist with implementing special events and activities to enhance Membersโ€™ knowledge, understanding and skills (e.g., Family Nights, outreach, etc.).
โ€ข Assist with tracking and reporting program participation and achievements, recommending modifications that respond to Member needs and interests.
3. Maintain Order amp; Safety
โ€ข Maintain a sense of order and control at the Central Unit of BGCCIL by using good judgment and enforcing rules fairly, firmly, consistently and kindly.
โ€ข Maintain an environment that insures the health and safety of members by maintaining a high degree of awareness to ensure a clean and safe environment.
โ€ข Insure proper care of BGCCIL property (tables, computers, books, sports equipment, etc.) by identifying and addressing anything out of order. DAILY DUTIES:
โ€ข Implement standard operating procedures for opening, running and closing assigned program area - ensuring safety of Members and utilization of youth development strategy at all times. Assists with student completion and organization of school assignments during Power Hour.
โ€ข Recruit and engage youth in activities.
โ€ข Run activities at the scheduled times with a high level of fun, Member participation and order.
โ€ข Address Member discipline situations fairly and correctly, assisting them to resolve conflicts in a fair, firm, consistent and kind manner.
โ€ข Foster positive youth development relationships with Members, engaging them in conversations and activities that test their knowledge, encouraging them to work on improving weak areas and praising them for effort, good conduct and achievements;
โ€ข Assist in tracking daily attendance and program activities.
โ€ข Serve as a positive force in the organization and achieve a high standard of professionalism and customer service through effective communication, personal motivation, and interpersonal skills with Members, peers, superiors, parents and the general public.
โ€ข Perform other duties as assigned.
ADDITIONAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:
Essential Working Relationships:
Internal: Maintain close, daily contact with BGCCIL professional staff and Volunteers to interpret and explain organizational mission, program objectives and standards, discuss issues, and provide/receive information. Cultivate ongoing relationships with Members providing discipline, wise guidance and counsel as appropriate.
External: Maintain contact with community groups, schools, Members' parents and others required and approved by the Executive Director. Publicize the club in order to increase awareness whenever possible in order to increase financial support and expand outreach efforts.
SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED:
High school diploma or equivalent required.
Knowledge of youth development; ability to motivate and provide guidance to youth through establishing positive relationships with youth Members; demonstrated caring and respect exhibited toward Members.
Ability to relate to the general public, parents and BGCCIL Members in a friendly, positive, and professional manner. Demonstrated ability to convey BGCCIL policies and procedures to Members, and to implement appropriate guidance and discipline policies.
Ability to organize and supervise Members to maintain a safe and welcoming environment.
Valid Illinois Drivers License.
Good verbal and written communication skills.
Demonstrated enthusiasm, energy and commitment in personal contact with Members, parents, supervisors and the general public.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Sitting and standing as needed.
Full use of all limbs and at least one hand.
Full verbal, color vision, and hearing ability.
Lifting up to 50 pounds on occasion.
Ability to intervene in a fight or control youth aged 6 to 18.
Ability to drive motor vehicle preferred (with valid IL drivers license).
WORKING CONDITIONS:
May be exposed to outdoor weather conditions during all seasons. Limited exposure during winter.
May be exposed to moderate to loud noise; unruly or irate youth and/or parents.
May be exposed to potentially dangerous situations including youth fighting or bringing unauthorized materials onto premises. May be exposed to potentially dangerous medical situations; exposure to airborne diseases or infected blood while treating Members.
Exposed to risk of vehicle accidents while driving or riding in agency vehicles.
Risk of injury from being near, or participating in, athletic or recreational activities.
DISCLAIMER: The information presented indicated the general nature and level of work expected of employees in this classification. It is not designed to contain, nor to be interpreted as, a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications and objectives required of employees assigned to this job.