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Activities Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Activities Assistant - PT - Days

Le Mars, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

The Activities Assistant administers the monthly activity calendar. Regularly elicits patients/residents input into activity planning and keeps activities well organized and upbeat, following all ...

Activity Assistant

Marion, IA

$15 - $18/hr

Observe residents during activities and report any changes in physical or emotional condition to nursing staff. * Assist with setting up and serving refreshments during activities as needed. * Ensure ...

Activity Assistant

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Organize, lead, and promote interest in recreational activities, such as arts, crafts, and games ... Activity Assistant Qualifications * A positive attitude and a willingness to learn * Previous ...

Activity Assistant

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

The Activity Assistant job responsibilities include planing, organizing, and implementing ... Organize, lead, and promote interest in recreational activities, such as arts, crafts, and games

Showing results 21-40

Activities Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$15

$19

How much do activities assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for activities assistant in Iowa is $15.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $16.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an activities assistant?

To thrive as an Activities Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, creativity, and a background in recreation, social work, or a related field, often supported by CPR/First Aid certification. Familiarity with scheduling software, activity planning tools, and basic office programs is typically required. Excellent interpersonal skills, patience, and enthusiasm help build rapport with participants and encourage engagement. These abilities ensure that activities are safe, inclusive, and enriching, greatly enhancing participants’ well-being and satisfaction.

How does an activities assistant typically collaborate with other team members to plan and execute events for residents?

Activities Assistants work closely with other staff members, such as activity directors, nursing staff, and volunteers, to coordinate and implement engaging programs for residents. They often participate in team meetings to brainstorm ideas, discuss residents' preferences, and assign responsibilities for upcoming events. Effective communication and teamwork are essential to ensure that activities run smoothly, meet safety standards, and cater to the diverse interests of participants. This collaborative environment also provides opportunities for Activities Assistants to learn from colleagues and contribute their unique strengths to the team.

What is the difference between Activities Assistant vs Activities Coordinator?

AspectActivities AssistantActivities Coordinator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications in activity planning or healthcare preferredSimilar credentials; often requires additional experience in event planning or recreation management
Work EnvironmentAssists in activity implementation, often in healthcare, senior living, or community centersLeads and organizes activities, managing programs and staff in similar settings
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in healthcare, senior living, and community organizationsUsed interchangeably in the same industries, with activities coordinator often having more responsibility
Search & Comparison IntentPeople looking for entry-level activity roles or support positionsIndividuals seeking roles with more planning and leadership responsibilities

While both roles focus on organizing activities in healthcare and community settings, Activities Assistants typically support and implement programs, whereas Activities Coordinators lead and manage activity programs, often with greater responsibility and planning duties.

How much do activities assistants make?

Activities assistants in California typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the facility. Salaries can vary based on the setting, such as senior centers, hospitals, or community programs, and may include benefits like paid time off and health insurance.

How to become an activities assistant?

To become an activities assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and experience in activities planning or caregiving. Relevant skills include communication, organization, and creativity, and some positions may require certification in first aid or activity planning. On-the-job training is common, and a compassionate attitude is essential for working with diverse populations.

What is the role of an activities assistant?

An activities assistant plans and organizes recreational activities and events for residents or clients, often in settings like senior centers or healthcare facilities. They work to promote engagement, socialization, and well-being, typically requiring good communication skills and sometimes certification in activity planning or healthcare support.

What are the most commonly searched types of Activities jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Activities jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Activities Assistant jobs in Iowa?

For Activities Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Activities Assistant jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Activities Assistant jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Activities Assistant jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Activities Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Activities Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, and 58% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,234 per year, or $15 per hour.

Activities Assistant - PT - Days

Sanford Health

Le Mars, IA • On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Sanford Health rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 551 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

498th of 891 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America's heartland.
Work Shift:
Day (United States of America)
Scheduled Weekly Hours:
20
Compensation:
Salary Range: $14.50 - $22.50
Union Position:
No
Department Details
Summary
Strives to improves the quality of life for the patients/residents by providing appropriate, meaningful activities and interventions on a one-on-one and/or group basis.
Job Description
The Activities Assistant administers the monthly activity calendar. Regularly elicits patients/residents input into activity planning and keeps activities well organized and upbeat, following all state required activities such as music, craft and spiritual activities. The Activities Assistant partakes in activities appropriate for the patient/department and residents in order to support and ensure functioning at an optimal level while also maintaining dignity and identity. The Activities Assistant assists with simple nursing procedures and transporting patients/residents to and from rooms. Assists with Minimum Data Set's (MDS's)/EPIC's documentation. Displays creativity and resourcefulness. The Activities Assistant demonstrates the ability to follow written and verbal instructions while working under close supervision. Exhibits excellent written and verbal communication skills.
The Activities Assistant demonstrates leadership abilities to develop and motivate people. Possesses the ability to work with strong willed patients/residents and/or behavioral issues. The Activities Assistant maintains strong critical thinking skills and problem solving skills. Prioritizes responsibilities while working autonomously. Plans and oversees the utilization of resources and designs of work processes.
Qualifications
High school graduate or equivalent preferred.
Experience in social services or creative activities are preferred. Experience in geriatrics preferred. Knowledge of working with a wide variety of resident demographics.
Preferred current Certified Nurses Assistant (CNA) certification or currently enrolled as a student in a healthcare related program preferred. Basic Life Support (BLS) required based on location. Depending on location, all new employees will attend CPR training, and must be certified within six months of hire. Obtains and subsequently maintains required department specific competencies and certifications.
Depending on location, this role classifies as a Sanford Category I or II Driver requiring a motor vehicle report and proof of valid driver's license. Also must be medically qualified to perform the essential driving functions of this position as per our Sanford Driving Policy
Sanford is an EEO/AA Employer M/F/Disability/Vet.
If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request an accommodation for help with your online application, please call 1-877-949-5678 or send an email to talent@sanfordhealth.org.

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About Sanford Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sanford Health is one of the largest and fastest-growing not-for-profit health systems in the United States. We're proud to offer many development and advancement opportunities to our nearly 50,000 members of the Sanford Family who are dedicated to the work of health and healing across our broad footprint.

Industry

Health care and social assistance and hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Sioux Falls, SD, US

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