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Assisted Living Activity Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Activity Director

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

Calyx Living is actively seeking an energetic and creative Activity Director for our contemporary assisted living community, Calyx Living of Wakefield ! We are located in beautiful Wakefield, just ...

Activity Director

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

Calyx Living is actively seeking an energetic and creative Activity Director for our contemporary assisted living community, Calyx Living of Wakefield ! We are located in beautiful Wakefield, just ...

Activity Director

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

Calyx Living is actively seeking an energetic and creative Activity Director for our contemporary assisted living community, Calyx Living of Wakefield ! We are located in beautiful Wakefield, just ...

Activity Director

Statham, GA · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

We are seeking a compassionate, energetic, and creative Activity Director to lead and coordinate our life enrichment program for residents in our assisted living and memory care community. This role ...

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Assisted Living Activity Director information

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How much do assisted living activity director jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for assisted living 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 does an Assisted Living Activity Director do?

An Assisted Living Activity Director plans, coordinates, and oversees recreational and social activities for residents in assisted living facilities. Their main goal is to enhance the quality of life for residents by organizing engaging programs such as arts and crafts, games, outings, and wellness activities. They work closely with staff and residents to ensure activities are suitable for various abilities and interests, promoting socialization and overall well-being. Additionally, they may manage activity budgets, recruit volunteers, and ensure compliance with state regulations related to resident engagement.

What are some common challenges faced by Assisted Living Activity Directors, and how can they be addressed?

Assisted Living Activity Directors often face the challenge of creating engaging programs that meet the diverse interests and abilities of residents. Balancing physical, cognitive, and social activities while working within budget constraints can also be demanding. To address these challenges, directors frequently collaborate with caregivers, residents, and families to gather feedback and tailor activities. Flexibility, creativity, and strong communication skills are key to adapting programs and ensuring participation, ultimately enhancing residents’ quality of life.

What degree do you need to be a director of an assisted living facility?

Assisted living activity directors typically do not require a specific degree, but many employers prefer candidates with a background in healthcare, social work, or recreation therapy. A high school diploma or equivalent is usually required, and relevant certifications or experience in elder care can enhance job prospects.

How much does an activity director make?

In North Carolina, an assisted living activity director typically earns between $30,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the size of the facility. The role often requires strong organizational skills and knowledge of activity planning for seniors. Salaries can vary based on location and facility budget.

What is the difference between Assisted Living Activity Director vs Certified Activity Director?

AspectAssisted Living Activity DirectorCertified Activity Director
CredentialsMay require state-specific certifications or training in senior activitiesRequires certification from organizations like the National Certification Council for Activity Professionals (NCCAP)
Work EnvironmentAssisted living facilities, senior communitiesSenior centers, healthcare facilities, assisted living
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in assisted living settings to plan activities for residentsUsed across various senior and healthcare settings, often with formal certification

The Assisted Living Activity Director and Certified Activity Director roles overlap in planning and coordinating activities for seniors. The main difference lies in certification requirements and the specific work environment. Certified Activity Directors typically hold formal certification and may work in a broader range of senior settings, while Assisted Living Activity Directors focus on activities within assisted living communities, often with state-specific training.

What qualifications do you need to be an activity director?

To be an assisted living activity director, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience in activities planning or healthcare. Many states require certification in activities or recreational therapy, and strong organizational and communication skills are essential for success in this role.

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

To thrive as an Assisted Living Activity Director, you need a background in recreation therapy, gerontology, or a related field, often supported by a degree or certification such as CTRS or ADC. Familiarity with activity planning software, scheduling tools, and basic health and safety protocols is typically required. Creativity, strong interpersonal skills, and patience help engage residents and foster a positive community environment. These skills ensure the development of meaningful, safe, and enjoyable activities that enhance residents’ quality of life.

What does an activity director do?

An activity director in assisted living plans, organizes, and oversees recreational and social activities for residents to promote engagement and well-being. They assess residents' interests, coordinate events, and work with staff to create a stimulating environment, often requiring good communication skills and knowledge of activity planning. The role typically involves working in a team and may require certification or experience in activities or healthcare settings.
More about Assisted Living Activity Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Assisted Living Activity Director jobs? Cities with the most Assisted Living Activity Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Assisted Living Activity jobs? The most popular types of Assisted Living Activity jobs are:
What states have the most Assisted Living Activity Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Assisted Living Activity Director jobs include:
Infographic showing various Assisted Living Activity Director job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,070 per year, or $23.6 per hour.
Assisted Living Activity Director

Assisted Living Activity Director

Oaks Senior Living

Charleston, SC

$18 - $24.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 hours ago


Job description

Oaks Senior Living is currently recruiting a kind hearted Lifestyle Director who has a passion for working with seniors at our Oaks at Suwanee Creek community located in Suwanee, Ga. Our culture centers around a Person Centered Lifestyle with great core values and a dedication to enrich the lives of those we serve . Oaks Senior Living inspires team members to excel, rewards for excellence and creates a work environment where all are trusted and empowered with a sense of ownership. Extremely rewarding opportunity with growth potential!

Position Summary:

The Activities Director will be in charge of planning, coordinating, and implementing an activities program that reflects the varied interests of the residents and provides them with meaningful and enriching activities including social, educational, recreational, and spiritual programs. The Activities Director will recruit, coordinate, and train volunteer members, and help ensure employee involvement in the activities program. The Activities Director is a part of the management team of the community.

Qualifications:

  1. A minimum of one year of experience working with residents in a long-term care setting.
  2. Experience in program and event planning for older adults is preferred.
  3. Ability to interact and build relationships with older adults. Desire to work with older adults.
  4. Strong creativity and organizational skills.
  5. Supervisory experience in a healthcare or service industry preferred.
  6. Clean driving record and willingness to drive company vehicle and transport residents.
  7. Must be 21 years of age. Must have a satisfactory criminal history check.
  8. Must have physical exam by a licensed physician. Must have a negative drug screen.
  9. Must be able to react in an emergency situation.

Primary Responsibilities:

  1. Oversee the implementation of the Oaks Senior Living Life Enrichment Program guidelines.
  2. Develop, plan and participate in the daily and weekly Life Enrichment programming.
  3. Coordinate with kitchen regarding food service for special events, provide list of absent residents during outings, coordinate snacks with planned event, and
  4. Create a monthly activities calendar that reflects the varied interests of the residents and provides them with enriching opportunities. Coordinate all special events, including holiday events.
  5. Utilize community resources and entertainers to schedule various activities including special events.
  6. Strengthen local community involvement through promotion of volunteerism among members of the community.
  7. Perform personalized assessments of residents' interest.
  8. Provide a forum for residents to meet monthly and share their ideas, thoughts, and concerns regarding their activities through the resident council meetings.
  9. Ensure that residents are encouraged and assisted to attend activities that are of interest to them.
  10. Adhere to each Resident's Care Plan and notify the Wellness Director of any changes in resident condition.
  11. Facilitate with resident move-ins. Greet new residents and introduce them to fellow residents.
  12. Assist with serving meals and supervise caregiver staff in the dining room.
  13. Maintain an adequate supply of equipment for regular activities, keeping within budgetary guidelines.
  14. Arrange transportation for regular and special outings and transportation for medical appointments.
  15. Carry out other duties as assigned by The Executive Director.
  16. Comply with Oaks Senior Living policies, training programs, and state and federal regulations.
  17. Maintain CPR & First Aid certification.

General Management

  1. Supervise the caregiver staff on duty in providing quality care and meeting the needs of residents in accordance with the Oaks Senior Living philosophy and policies.
  2. Review daily all communication tools used in providing resident care.
  3. Communicate residents' needs with caregiver staff at change of shift and with the Executive Director and Wellness Director as needed. Establish and maintain good relationships and communicate effectively with residents and their families.
  4. Participate in the Manager-on-Duty rotation. Lead by example, encourage teamwork, promote the Oaks Senior Living philosophy, and provide ongoing coaching to employees.
  5. Provide an "open door" to employees, addressing any concerns or grievances they may have.
  6. Follow infection control procedures and resident transfer guidelines.
  7. Respond to on-the-job injuries in accordance with Oaks Senior Living policies and procedures.

Volunteer Recruitment, Coordinating, and Training

  1. Develop and maintain a solid volunteer base through building relationships in the community.
  2. Orient and train volunteers to the residence, the residents, and key policies.
  3. Match volunteers' interests with specific activities in an effort to enrich both the lives of the residents and volunteers.
  4. Supervise and provide ongoing support and coaching to volunteers.
  5. Encourage the residents' family members to volunteer and be part of the activities at the residence.
  6. Train employees to conduct activities and to encourage resident participation.
  7. Recognize volunteers on a regular basis for their contribution.

Reports to: Executive Director

Physical Job Requirements

To fulfill job requirements, employee must be able to perform key physical task for extended periods of time. Employees must adhere to proper body mechanics and safety measures when supporting or transferring residents. In a typical eight- hour day, employee will:

  1. Stand/walk up to eight hours a day. Sit up to two hours a day.
  2. Frequently support up to 70 pounds .Occasionally lift/carry up to 15 pounds.
  3. Frequently kneel, bend, and reach.
  4. Secure proper assistance for transferring of residents as needed.