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Activity Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Heartshare

Activity Specialist

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$18.28/hr

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 ...

Global Kids Inc

Activity Specialist

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Activity Specialist Location: Multiple sites in NYC Global Kids educates, inspires, and mobilizes youth to become global citizens who are positively engaged in the world and are prepared for their ...

POLICE ATHLETIC LEAGUE INC

Activity Specialist

Queens, NY · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Summer Activity Specialist The Police Athletic League (PAL) is the largest independent youth organization in New York City that provides educational and recreational activities for children and young ...

Heartshare

Activity Specialist

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$18.28/hr

Summer Activity Specialist must be available to work Mon-Fri; 8:00 AM-6:00 PM Primary Responsibilities and Essential Functions of Position: * Assist in the development of age-appropriate activities ...

Recovery Solutions

Activity Specialist

Bridgewater, MA · On-site

$27.50 - $29.80/hr

Activity Specialist Department: Rehabilitation Job Status: Full-Time Days Worked: Tue., Wed., Thu., Fri., Sat. Rate of Pay: $27.50 - $29.80 Hourly Position Type: Full-Time Status: Accepting ...

Heartshare

Activity Specialist

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$18.28/hr

Vincent's Services (HSVS) is currently seeking Summer Activity Specialists to plan, lead, and supervise recreational and theme-based activities for participants in our Summer Camp program. This role ...

Heartshare

Activity Specialist

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$18.28/hr

Vincent's Services (HSVS) is currently seeking Summer Activity Specialists to plan, lead, and supervise recreational and theme-based activities for participants in our Summer Camp program. This role ...

Harlem Children's Zone

Activity Specialist

New York, NY · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

The Activity Specialist will bring a passion for the mission of Harlem Children's Zone: break the cycle of intergenerational poverty with comprehensive, on-the-ground programming that builds up ...

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Activity Specialist information

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How much do activity specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for activity specialist in the United States is $21.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Activity Specialist vs Recreation Therapist?

AspectActivity SpecialistRecreation Therapist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications like CPR, activity director certificationsBachelor's or master's degree in recreation therapy or related field; state licensure or certification (e.g., CTRS)
Work EnvironmentSchools, community centers, senior centers, healthcare facilitiesHospitals, rehabilitation centers, mental health facilities, long-term care
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, senior care, community programsHealthcare and mental health industries
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for roles involving activity planning and engagementMore clinical focus on therapy and rehabilitation

While both roles involve planning and facilitating activities, Activity Specialists focus on engagement and recreation in various settings, often with less formal clinical training. Recreation Therapists have specialized education and licensure, providing therapeutic interventions to improve patients' physical and mental health. The choice depends on the level of clinical involvement and credentials required.

What are Activity Specialists?

Activity Specialists are professionals who plan, organize, and lead recreational or educational activities for groups, often in settings like schools, camps, community centers, or senior living facilities. Their goal is to engage participants in meaningful programs that promote physical, social, or creative development. They tailor activities to suit the needs and interests of the group, ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment. Activity Specialists may also be responsible for assessing participant needs, maintaining equipment, and evaluating the effectiveness of activities.

What jobs do ADHD people thrive in?

Activity specialists often excel in roles that involve hands-on, dynamic work environments, such as coaching, recreation therapy, or fitness instruction. These jobs benefit from strong interpersonal skills, adaptability, and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. Skills like creativity, energy, and organization are also valuable in these roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Activity Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Activity Specialist, you need a background in recreation, education, or a related field, combined with experience in planning and leading group activities. Familiarity with program management software, scheduling tools, and sometimes CPR/First Aid certification is often required. Creativity, strong communication, and leadership skills help engage participants and foster a positive environment. These abilities ensure safe, enjoyable, and impactful programs that meet the needs of diverse groups.

What is an activity specialist?

An activity specialist is a professional who plans, organizes, and leads recreational or therapeutic activities for specific populations, such as children, seniors, or individuals with disabilities. They often work in settings like schools, community centers, or healthcare facilities and may require skills in program development, communication, and sometimes certifications in recreation or therapy. Their goal is to promote engagement, socialization, and well-being through structured activities.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

An activity specialist typically does not earn $10,000 a month without a degree; high earnings in this role depend on experience, location, and specialization. Generally, jobs that can reach this income level without a degree include sales, real estate, entrepreneurship, or skilled trades like certain construction or technical roles, often requiring strong skills, certifications, or business acumen. These positions may involve commission, bonuses, or self-employment to achieve such income levels.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Activity specialists typically do not earn $2000 a day; such high daily earnings are usually associated with specialized roles like high-level consultants, executive coaches, or certain freelance professionals in fields such as finance, law, or consulting. These roles often require extensive experience, certifications, or a strong client base and may involve project-based or hourly billing that can reach high daily rates.

How does an Activity Specialist typically collaborate with other staff members to plan and deliver engaging programs?

Activity Specialists often work closely with program coordinators, instructors, and support staff to design and implement a variety of activities that cater to participants' interests and needs. Collaboration usually involves regular planning meetings, sharing feedback on past activities, and coordinating logistics to ensure smooth execution. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as Activity Specialists may also partner with external vendors or community organizations to enhance program offerings. This collaborative environment not only enriches the quality of activities but also provides opportunities for professional growth and learning from colleagues.
More about Activity Specialist jobs
What cities are hiring for Activity Specialist jobs? Cities with the most Activity Specialist job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Activity Specialist jobs? The top employers for Activity Specialist jobs are:
What states have the most Activity Specialist jobs? States with the most job openings for Activity Specialist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Activity Specialist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Activity Specialist jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Activity Specialist jobs? For Activity Specialist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Activity Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Activity Specialist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 43% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 3% Summer. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,001 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Activity Specialist

Heartshare

Brooklyn, NY • On-site

$18.28/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 hours 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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