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Activity Director Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

Healogics

Program Director

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$88.40 - $116.40/hr

... activities directed toward increasing patient referrals to the wound care center(s).Works ... collaboratively, as part of a multi-functional team, to best determine key target referral sources ...

Healogics

Program Director

Waterloo, IA · On-site

... activities directed toward increasing patient referrals to the wound care center(s). * Works ... collaboratively, as part of a multi-functional team, to best determine key target referral sources ...

Healogics, Inc.

Program Director

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$88.40 - $116.40/hr

... activities directed toward increasing patient referrals to the wound care center(s).* Works ... collaboratively, as part of a multi-functional team, to best determine key target referral sources ...

Healogics

Program Director

Waterloo, IA

... activities directed toward increasing patient referrals to the wound care center(s). * Works ... collaboratively, as part of a multi-functional team, to best determine key target referral sources ...

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Activity Director information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$11

$23

$41

How much do activity director jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for activity director in Waterloo, IA is $23.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $24.66 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 job categories do people searching Activity Director jobs in Waterloo, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Activity Director jobs in Waterloo, IA are:
What cities near Waterloo, IA are hiring for Activity Director jobs? Cities near Waterloo, IA with the most Activity Director job openings:
Activity Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Activity Director job openings in Waterloo, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,385 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Activities Director - 1st shift Full time

Pillar of Cedar Valley Nursing and Rehabilitation

Waterloo, IA • On-site

$22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

At Pillar of Cedar Valley, we love what we do and have fun while we're doing it! Working with our residents is an adventure. They've led amazing lives and have the stories to prove it. Here, you'll join a community of incredible residents and a company dedicated to providing the highest quality of service and care.

Position Summary

The Activities Director is responsible for providing all of the fun and excitement to residents and employees. As the Activities Director you will help to assure that our Activities are fun, fresh, engaging, and well attended, as directed and in accordance with established Activities policies and procedures. You will lead therapeutic programming while striving to enhance our Residents’ quality of life.

Benefits

     Competitive salary

     Medical, Dental & Vision plans

     Generous Vacation plan

     Paid Time Off

     Tuition Reimbursement

     Internal Growth Opportunities

     Positive work environment

     Regular staff appreciation and recognition

Job Description

  • Promote the residents' well-being and satisfaction by supporting Pillar of Cedar Valley in all areas of the residents' life

  • Develop and interpret standards of care, guide the interdisciplinary team to establish and implement the resident’s plan of care with the resident and his/her family and the Pillar team

  • Help to improve systems and eliminate barriers to resident centered care and services

  • Regulate content of program in accordance with residents’ capabilities, needs and interests

  • Provide one-on-one activities for residents who are unable or prefer not to be involved in group activities

  • Collaborate with residents, families, other professionals and staff to implement established programs that meet the psychosocial and activities needs of residents, including creating diverse opportunities for meaningful pursuits, daily pleasures, life enrichment, exercise, friendships, social interaction, growth and learning, fun and enjoyment, personal routines, and spontaneous activity

  • Assist residents with activities of their choice, group, individual, or one-on-one. Provide for resident leisure life activities. Take residents outdoors, or out in the facility community

  • Plan, implement and participate in outings and special events

  • Chart and participate in care plan and meetings as needed and required

  • Other duties as required

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Recreation Therapy or a specialty area such as art, dance, music or physical education. 

  • Experience leading group activities

  • Experienced in Skilled Nursing/Senior Living environment

  • Someone who is empathetic and can work with residents who may be ill, disabled, elderly, emotionally challenged, or difficult

Pillar of Cedar Valley Nursing and Rehabilitation is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for all employment, free from discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, religion, associational preferences, status as a qualified individual with a disability, or status as a protected veteran.