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Certified Activities Director Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

A24Group

Travel Certified Nursing Assistant

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$14.25 - $16.63/hr

This role provides direct patient care and supports nursing staff in delivering high-quality ... The position involves assisting patients with daily living activities and ensuring comfort, safety ...

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All JobsCertified Activities JobsCertified Activities Director JobsCertified Activities Director Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Certified Activities Director information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$29.8K

$113.6K

$128.5K

How much do certified activities director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for certified activities director in Rio Rancho, NM is $113,596.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,200.00 and $127,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Certified Activities Director Do?

As a professional who has taken the extra certification steps to become a Certified Activities Director, you will work with a specific population such as the elderly, disabled, or children in camps and other educational programs. Careers in this area are most frequently available in long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, senior residence facilities, and daycare centers. You will develop activities—in accordance with other staff members—geared toward enhancing the population’s life at the core level, as well as teaching participants something new by planning arts and educational classes, helping them recover by scheduling therapeutic sessions or providing entertainment by inviting local artists, authors, and speakers to the facility.

How to get a job as a activity director?

To become a certified activities director, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant experience in activity planning or senior care, and often a certification such as the Certified Activities Director (CAD) credential. Developing strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills is essential, and some positions may require background checks or CPR certification.

What is the difference between Certified Activities Director vs Activities Coordinator?

CriteriaCertified Activities DirectorActivities Coordinator
CredentialsCertification required (e.g., Certified Activities Director)May not require certification, but relevant experience preferred
Work EnvironmentSenior role in senior living, nursing homes, or community centersEntry to mid-level role in similar settings
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in healthcare, senior care, and community organizationsUsed across various recreational and community programs

The Certified Activities Director typically holds a certification and manages more complex programs in senior care settings. Activities Coordinators often assist or support these programs, focusing on organizing activities without necessarily holding certification. Both roles are vital for engaging communities, but the Certified Activities Director usually has greater responsibilities and credentials.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Certified Activities Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Certified Activities Director, you need expertise in program planning, recreational therapy, and a relevant certification such as Activity Director Certification (ADC) or NCCAP credentials. Familiarity with scheduling software, documentation systems, and regulatory compliance tools is typically required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, creativity, and strong leadership abilities help engage participants and manage diverse teams. These skills are vital to designing effective programs that promote well-being, socialization, and quality of life for those in care settings.

What can you do with an activity director certification?

An activity director certification qualifies individuals to plan, organize, and lead recreational activities for settings such as senior living communities, hospitals, or rehabilitation centers. Certified activity directors develop programs that promote social, physical, and mental well-being, often working with diverse populations and utilizing skills in event planning and communication.

What is a Certified Activities Director?

A Certified Activities Director is a professional responsible for planning, organizing, and directing recreational and therapeutic activities for residents in settings like nursing homes, assisted living facilities, or community centers. Their goal is to enhance the quality of life, promote social interaction, and support the emotional and physical well-being of participants. Certification typically involves specialized training and passing a certification exam, ensuring that the director meets industry standards for safety and engagement. Activities may include arts and crafts, games, outings, and educational programs tailored to the needs and interests of participants.

How to be a certified activities director?

To become a certified activities director, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by relevant education such as a degree or certification in recreation, leisure studies, or a related field. Many states or employers require certification from organizations like the National Certification Council for Activities (NCCA) or similar bodies, which often involves completing specific training programs and passing an exam. Gaining experience in activity planning and strong interpersonal skills are also important for success in this role.

What are the most common challenges a Certified Activities Director faces when planning programs for diverse populations?

Certified Activities Directors often encounter the challenge of designing engaging programs that cater to a wide range of interests, abilities, and cultural backgrounds among residents. Balancing individual preferences with group needs requires creativity, strong communication skills, and flexibility. Additionally, adapting activities to meet regulatory requirements and working within budget constraints can add complexity. Collaboration with nursing staff, families, and volunteers is crucial to ensure activities are inclusive, safe, and meaningful.

How much does it cost to become a certified activities director?

The cost to become a certified activities director varies depending on the certification program, but typically ranges from $200 to $600 for training courses and exams. Additional expenses may include study materials, background checks, and renewal fees for maintaining certification. Certification programs often require completing coursework, passing an exam, and gaining relevant experience in activity planning or recreation management.
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Certified Activities Director jobs near you

Activity Assistant

Central Desert Behavioral Health Hospital

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Position Summary
The Activity Assistant brings joy and fulfillment to active seniors through creativity and engagement. A critical role in a vibrant senior environment, our Activity Aide gets to organize activities that enhance cognitive, social, and physical needs. If you enjoy bringing delight to our senior community, we invite you to apply today! We can't wait to work with you!
Posted Salary Range
USD $24.00 - USD $28.00 /Hr.
Wage Commensuration
The wage range for this role takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including, but not limited to, skill sets, experience, education and training, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs.
Duties & Responsibilities
The Activity Assistant will work side by side with the Activity Director assisting with the planning, development, coordination, and implementation of activities for our patients and residents including:
  • Assist with the planning, development, coordination, and implementation of activities for our patients and residents.
  • Assist with transporting, communicating, and setting up for activities in and out of the facility on a regular basis; as well as order and pick up the materials for the activities (as needed).
  • Conduct one-on-one activity therapy to offer sensory stimulation and group activities to ensure patients and residents make personal progress.

Qualifications & Requirements
  • Minimum high school diploma or equivalent required; college credits are preferred
  • Preferred aptitude for, and some training in, arts and crafts
  • Valid driver's license, clean driving record and provide proof of liability insurance required
  • Must have reliable transportation

Benefits
All of our employees are valued and receive a competitive wage; full time team members are also offered a comprehensive benefit package which includes:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life and Disability Insurance/ Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Tuition Reimbursement & Nursing Loan Repayment Programs
  • PerkSpot - Local Deals and Weekly Perks Program
  • 401(k)
  • Paid Time Off Plan
  • New Pet Insurance Discount available
  • DailyPay option available! - Get your pay, when you need it.
  • Purchasing Power - online purchase/payroll deduction
  • Tickets at Work - entertainment ticket discounts
  • Employee Assistance Plan - easy-to-use services to help with everyday challenges of life (available for all employees and their families)
  • Helping Friends Foundation - our employees' hardship/crisis fund
  • Auto and Home Insurance - employee discount available - payroll deduction!
  • In-facility education programs and more!

EOE Statement
Drug Free, Smoke-Free work place. Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets

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