Activity Director

Polaris-Healthcare; City of Troy (NY); On-site; USD 33,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Meaningful work with seniors

Supportive leadership

Growth opportunities

Benefits package

Paid time off

Job summary

Heartwood Assisted Living Community in New York is seeking a compassionate, energetic Activity Director to lead our Life Enrichment Program and plan engaging recreational, social, educational, and wellness activities for residents. You will create meaningful experiences that promote independence, socialization, and well-being, while collaborating with families and community partners.

The role requires leadership to supervise staff, develop a monthly activities calendar, manage budgets and

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Associate's or Bachelor's in Recreation Therapy or related field preferred.
• Two years of experience in activities, recreation, or life enrichment in senior living preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the daily operations of the Activities Department.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate a comprehensive monthly activities calendar.
• Supervise, train, and support activity staff and volunteers.
• Foster a positive, resident-centered culture and coordinate events with community partners.
• Maintain accurate participation records and activity documentation; ensure safety and compliance.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Event planning

Organization

Microsoft Office

Education

High school diploma

Associate's or Bachelor's in Recreation Therapy or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Activity Director

Heartwood Assisted Living Community

Pay: $24.00–$25.00 per hour
Job Type: Full-Time

Join Our Team!

Heartwood Assisted Living Community is seeking a compassionate, energetic, and creative Activity Director to lead our Life Enrichment Program. This position is responsible for planning, coordinating, and implementing engaging recreational, social, educational, and wellness activities that enhance the quality of life for our residents.

The ideal candidate is a strong leader with a passion for working with seniors and creating meaningful experiences that promote independence, socialization, and overall well-being.

Essential Responsibilities

Leadership

• Lead and oversee the daily operations of the Activities Department.

• Develop, implement, and evaluate a comprehensive monthly activities calendar.

• Supervise, train, and support activity staff and volunteers.

• Foster a positive, engaging, and resident-centered culture throughout the community.

• Collaborate with department leaders to coordinate special events and community initiatives.

Resident Engagement

• Assess resident interests, abilities, and needs to create individualized and group programming.

• Plan and facilitate recreational, educational, cultural, spiritual, fitness, and social activities.

• Encourage resident participation while respecting individual preferences and abilities.

• Coordinate outings, entertainment, holiday celebrations, and special events.

• Build positive relationships with residents, families, volunteers, and community organizations.

Program Management

• Maintain an organized monthly activities calendar and distribute schedules to residents and families.

• Develop innovative programming that supports physical, cognitive, emotional, and social wellness.

• Manage the department budget and activity supplies.

• Coordinate transportation and logistics for community outings when applicable.

• Maintain accurate participation records and activity documentation.

Compliance & Quality Assurance

• Ensure compliance with New York State Department of Health regulations and assisted living requirements related to resident activities.

• Maintain all required activity documentation and assessments.

• Prepare for Department of Health surveys and participate in quality improvement initiatives.

• Ensure activities are conducted safely and are appropriate for varying levels of resident ability.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate records, reports, and department documentation.

• Participate in interdisciplinary care meetings as appropriate.

• Assist with resident orientations and community events.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Recreation Therapy, Therapeutic Recreation, Gerontology, Human Services, or a related field preferred.

• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in activities, recreation, or life enrichment, preferably in assisted living, long‑term care, or senior living.

• Previous leadership or supervisory experience preferred.

• Excellent communication, organization, and event‑planning skills.

• Creative, energetic, and compassionate approach to resident engagement.

• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed for scheduled events.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and activity documentation.

Why Join Heartwood?

• Competitive pay of $24.00–$25.00 per hour

• Opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of seniors every day.

• Supportive leadership and collaborative team environment.

• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement.

• Comprehensive benefits package for eligible employees.

• Paid time off and holiday pay.

• Health, dental, and vision insurance.

• 401(k) with company match (if applicable).

At Heartwood Assisted Living Community, we believe every day should bring purpose, joy, and meaningful connections for our residents. If you're passionate about creating engaging experiences and enriching the lives of older adults, we'd love to welcome you to our team.

Heartwood Assisted Living Community is an Equal Opportunity Employer.