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Activity Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Activity Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Activity Director ALIYA Healthcare is seeking a motivated and creative Activity Director to lead the planning and execution of engaging programs that enhance our residents' quality of life. This role ...

Activity Director

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

Activity Director CareCore at Meadows is seeking a passionate Activity Director to lead and develop engaging programs that enrich the lives of our residents. If you enjoy building meaningful ...

Activity Director

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

We are currently searching for an Activity Director to join our friendly, caring and supportive team! Harmony House Care Center is rapidly growing and our team is looking to invest in an Activity ...

Activity Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Activity Director ALIYA Healthcare is seeking a motivated and creative Activity Director to lead the planning and execution of engaging programs that enhance our residents' quality of life. This role ...

Activity Director

Niles, OH · On-site

$16.50 - $22.75/hr

We care about our Activity Director's and think you will agree when you hear what we have to offer. Continuing Healthcare Solutions is the "Employer of Choice" in our industry and we invite you to ...

Activity Director

Bedford, TX · On-site

$16.75 - $23/hr

Accreditation as a Certified Activity Director; Completion of a state approved Activity Director training course * Bachelor's degree in recreation therapy or related area. Should be licensed or ...

Activity Director

Farmerville, LA · On-site

$17.75 - $24.50/hr

Activity Director Job Location: Farmerville, LA Company Name: Onyx Care of Farmerville About the Role: We are seeking an experienced and compassionate Activity Director to join our team at Onyx Care ...

Activity Director

Milan, OH · On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

We care about our Activity Director's and think you will agree when you hear what we have to offer. Continuing Healthcare Solutions is the "Employer of Choice" in our industry and we invite you to ...

Activity Director

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

We are currently searching for an Activity Director to join our friendly, caring and supportive team! Harmony House Care Center is rapidly growing and our team is looking to invest in an Activity ...

Activity Director

Milan, OH · On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

We care about our Activity Director's and think you will agree when you hear what we have to offer. Continuing Healthcare Solutions is the "Employer of Choice" in our industry and we invite you to ...

Activity Director

Buffalo, NY · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

Activity Director Join our dynamic team at Mary Agnes Manor, a premier senior living community located on the beautiful and historic D'Youville Campus in Buffalo, NY. As our new Activity Director ...

Activity Director

Beloit, WI · On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

As the Activity Director, you lead the development of meaningful programs that promote engagement, purpose, joy, and connection. Through creative programming, staff leadership, and strong community ...

Showing results 21-40

Activity Director information

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How much do activity director jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for activity director in the United States is $23.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.00 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.

What cities are hiring for Activity Director jobs?

Cities with the most Activity Director job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Activity jobs?

The most popular types of Activity jobs are:

What states have the most Activity Director jobs?

States with the most job openings for Activity Director jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Activity Director jobs?

For Activity Director jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Activity Director job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,070 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Activity Director

Chicago, IL • On-site

ALIYA Healthcare Consulting
Nursing and Residential Care Facilities • 201 - 500 employees

$21 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 hours ago


Job description

Activity Director

ALIYA Healthcare is seeking a motivated and creative Activity Director to lead the planning and execution of engaging programs that enhance our residents’ quality of life. This role is responsible for creating a positive, energetic environment where residents can thrive socially, mentally, and physically.

Responsibilities:

  • Plan, organize, and oversee individual and group activities for residents

  • Develop and manage monthly and weekly activity calendars based on resident interests and needs

  • Lead and supervise activity staff, aides, and volunteers

  • Ensure consistent resident engagement and participation in programs

  • Maintain accurate documentation, attendance records, and resident assessments

  • Coordinate special events, community outings, and holiday programs

  • Collaborate with nursing and therapy teams to support a well-rounded resident experience

  • Manage activity department supplies, budget, and inventory

  • Ensure activity programs comply with state and federal regulations

  • Maintain organized, safe, and engaging activity spaces

Benefits:

  • Medical Insurance

  • Dental Insurance

  • Vision Insurance

  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

  • Life Insurance

  • Critical Illness Insurance

  • Short-Term Disability Insurance

  • Accident Insurance

  • Hospital Indemnity Insurance

  • 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan

  • On-Demand Pay Option

  • Paid Time Off (PTO)

  • Tuition Reimbursement Program

Qualifications:

  • Certified Activity Director (required)

  • High school diploma required; degree in Recreation Therapy or related field preferred

  • Previous experience leading activities in a healthcare or SNF setting required

  • Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills

  • Ability to develop and lead engaging resident programs

  • Compassionate, energetic, and resident-focused approach