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Activity Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Harlem Children's Zone

Activity Specialist

New York, NY · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

The Activity Specialist will bring a strong passion for Harlem Children's Zone's mission: to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty through comprehensive, community-based programming that ...

Harlem Children's Zone

Activity Specialist

New York, NY · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

The Activity Specialist will bring a strong passion for Harlem Children's Zone's mission: to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty through comprehensive, community-based programming that ...

Harlem Children's Zone

Activity Specialist

New York, NY · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

The Activity Specialist will bring a strong passion for Harlem Children's Zone's mission: to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty through comprehensive, community-based programming that ...

Workforce 1

Activity Specialist

Staten Island, NY · On-site

$22/hr

The Activity Specialist delivers engaging enrichment activities in a specialized content area such as arts, sports, STEAM, dance, music, literacy, or recreation. This role creates a safe, inclusive ...

Workforce 1

Activity Specialist

Staten Island, NY

$22/hr

Position Overview The Activity Specialist delivers engaging enrichment activities in a specialized content area such as arts, sports, STEAM, dance, music, literacy, or recreation. This role creates a ...

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 ...

Grand St Settlement Inc.

Activity Specialist

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$20/hr

Job & Career Readiness Activity Specialist DEPARTMENT: Youth Services Department LOCATION: Brooklyn, New York (BedStuy & Clinton Hill) REPORT TO: Community School Assistant Director PAY RATE: $20 per ...

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 ...

Heartshare

Activity Specialist

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$18.28/hr

We are seeking a Per Diem Activity Specialist to supervise and engage a group of school-age children in enriching activities during after-school hours. This includes assisting with homework, leading ...

onehopeunited

Activity Specialist

Lake Villa, IL · On-site

$21.60/hr

Activity Specialist The position of Activity Specialist offers flexible hours and involves providing direct and indirect therapeutic services to youth in a residential living environment. The goal is ...

One Hope United

Activity Specialist

Lake Villa, IL · On-site

$21.60/hr

Activity Specialist The position of Activity Specialist offers flexible hours and involves providing direct and indirect therapeutic services to youth in a residential living environment. The goal is ...

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Activity Specialist information

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$7

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How much do activity specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 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 an activity specialist?

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.

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.

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 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.

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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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,001 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Activity Specialist

Harlem Children's Zone

New York, NY

$25 - $30/hr

Part-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Harlem Children's Zone (HCZ) - a world-renowned education and poverty-fighting organization based in New York - is seeking an enthusiastic, dedicated, and mission-aligned Activity Specialist to support programming at our community centers.

The Activity Specialist will bring a strong passion for Harlem Children's Zone's mission: to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty through comprehensive, community-based programming that creates opportunities for children, families, and residents to thrive in school, work, and life.

We are looking for dynamic, part-time Activity Specialists across a variety of disciplines to design and lead engaging programs for children, youth, and community members during after-school and evening hours. Our community members bring a wealth of creativity, energy, and lived experience, and Harlem Children's Zone provides a supportive environment and resources to help them grow, connect, and succeed.

As an Activity Specialist, you will develop and facilitate engaging lesson plans, group activities, and creative experiences aligned with your area of expertise. You will foster a welcoming and inclusive environment that encourages participation from children, families, and local residents. In addition, you will promote the development of essential life skills such as communication, teamwork, critical thinking, and positive decision-making.

For more information, check out Want to Work at Harlem Children's Zone? Here's 7 Things You Need to Know.

Requirements

  • Must have at least 2 years of teaching experience  

Who you are

         A commitment to HCZ's mission and the communities we serve 

         Experience working with students, families, and/or community members

         Flexibility, creativity, and enthusiasm for community programming

         Excellent planning, organization, communication, and time management skills

         Ability to provide consistent and positive instruction as well as receive constructive criticism

         Ability to work a flexible schedule, available days and evenings

         Energetic, motivated self-starter and a team player

         Must be able to work independently as well as collaboratively on projects with staff and students and full curriculum

What you'll do 

         Plan and facilitate engaging lessons, activities, and units

         Work with program participants to develop their artistic, educational, and/or leadership potential

         Coordinate subject-related trips, guest speakers, and other special events

         Attend weekly staff meetings

         Share insights discovered with team members on a regular basis

         Act as a role model

         Perform other duties as assigned by management

Schedule 

         On-Site (Monday-Thursday) 5PM - 9PM and Saturdays from 10AM - 3PM

         During our Summer Camp Program, the Activity Specialists' schedule will shift to Monday-Thursday from 1PM - 6PM.

Type of activity specialist we are seeking:

  • Culinary/Cooking Specialist
  • Dance Specialist
  • Sports & Recreational Specialist (Weight & Conditioning)

Benefits

As a member of the Harlem Children's Zone team, you will join a supportive and inclusive community dedicated to helping children, families - and our staff - thrive. 

Please take a look at our Part-Time benefits below. 

Our exceptional Part-Time benefits include: 

  • Career advancement
  • Paid sick leave
  • Employee referral bonus 
  • Physical wellness discounts
  • Commuter benefits
  • Additional Benefits (Discounts on flights, hotels, theme parks, concert tickets, and more.)

The hourly rate for this position is $25 - $30 per hour. To be considered, interested applicants should apply directly through the job posting. Harlem Children's Zone is an EOE.

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