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Activity Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Grand Living

Activities Assistant

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

The Activities Assistant is to model The Sterling Touch ® friendly, courteous, helpful, timely and professional manner in all interactions, resulting in a very high level of resident satisfaction.

Care Initiatives

Activities Assistant

Osceola, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

What You'll Do & Key Responsibilities: * Assist the activity director in implementing an activity program to meet each resident's needs. * Maintain the resources needed for each resident's activity ...

Care Initiatives

Activities Assistant

Cedar Falls, IA · On-site

$14 - $16.75/hr

What You'll Do & Key Responsibilities: * Assist the activity director in implementing an activity program to meet each resident's needs. * Maintain the resources needed for each resident's activity ...

Care Initiatives

Activities Assistant

Oskaloosa, IA · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

What You'll Do & Key Responsibilities: * Assist the activity director in implementing an activity program to meet each resident's needs. * Maintain the resources needed for each resident's activity ...

Arvum Senior Living

Activities Assistant

Muscatine, IA · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

Meals and uniforms Activities & Events Coordinator Responsibilities: * Assist in the development ... Must be willing to work flexible hours (evenings and every other weekend) for planned activity ...

Immanuel

Activities Coordinator I

Council Bluffs, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

Activity Assistant Certified (AAC) is required or must be obtained within one (1) year of hire. Two (2) years' experience in a social or recreational program providing services for a frail or elderly ...

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Activity Assistant information

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$19

How much do activity assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for activity 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 is the difference between Activity Assistant vs Activity Coordinator?

AspectActivity AssistantActivity Coordinator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certification in activities or recreationSimilar requirements; often requires experience in activity planning
Work EnvironmentAssists in activity implementation, often in healthcare, senior living, or community centersPlans, organizes, and oversees activities, typically in similar settings
Employer & IndustryHealthcare facilities, senior living communities, recreational centersSame as Activity Assistant, with more responsibility for planning
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, responsibilities, and qualificationsLooking for leadership or planning differences

The main difference between an Activity Assistant and an Activity Coordinator is the level of responsibility. An Activity Assistant supports the implementation of activities, while an Activity Coordinator plans, organizes, and oversees activities. Both roles often require similar credentials and work in healthcare or community settings, but the Coordinator typically has more leadership duties.

What type of assistant makes the most money?

Among assistant roles, executive assistants and administrative assistants with specialized skills or experience tend to earn the highest salaries. Those who support top executives, have certifications, or work in high-demand industries can significantly increase their earning potential.

What is the activity assistant job description?

An activity assistant plans, organizes, and facilitates recreational and social activities for residents or clients, often in settings like senior centers or healthcare facilities. They work closely with staff to promote engagement, require good communication skills, and may need to complete relevant certifications or background checks.

How does an Activity Assistant collaborate with other staff to ensure engaging programs for participants?

Activity Assistants frequently work alongside recreation coordinators, nursing staff, and volunteers to plan and facilitate events that meet the interests and needs of residents or participants. Collaboration involves regular communication to assess participants’ abilities, gather feedback, and coordinate scheduling. This teamwork helps ensure that activities are inclusive, safe, and tailored to diverse abilities, ultimately creating a supportive and engaging environment. Being proactive and adaptable when working with others is key to success in this role.

What are Activity Assistants?

Activity Assistants are professionals who help plan, organize, and lead recreational activities for groups, often in settings like nursing homes, assisted living facilities, or community centers. Their goal is to enhance the quality of life for participants by providing engaging and therapeutic activities, such as arts and crafts, games, music sessions, and social events. They work closely with other staff to ensure activities are suitable for the participants’ abilities and interests, and help monitor participation and well-being during events.

How to become an activity assistant?

To become an activity assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and experience working with groups or in recreational settings. Relevant skills include communication, organization, and creativity, and some positions may require background checks or certifications in first aid or CPR. Volunteering or prior experience in activities or caregiving can also improve job prospects.

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

To thrive as an Activity Assistant, you need a basic understanding of recreational programming, strong organizational skills, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with scheduling software, activity planning tools, and sometimes CPR/First Aid certification is often required. Excellent interpersonal skills, creativity, and patience help you engage participants and foster a positive environment. These skills ensure that activities are safe, inclusive, and enjoyable, enhancing the well-being of participants in care or community settings.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

For an Activity Assistant, earning $4,000 a week is uncommon, as the role typically offers lower wages. High-paying jobs that do not require a degree include certain sales positions, real estate agents, or skilled trades like commercial diving or specialized construction, which often rely on experience, certifications, or commissions rather than formal education. These roles may involve variable income, commission-based pay, or overtime opportunities to reach higher weekly earnings.
What are the most commonly searched types of Activity jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Activity jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Activity Assistant jobs in Iowa? For Activity Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Activity Assistant jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Activity Assistant jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Activity Assistant jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Activity Assistant job openings:
Activity Assistant jobs near you
Activities Assistant

Activities Assistant

Grand Living

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Grand Living rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

About Grand Living
Grand Living is changing the way generations embrace life and is quickly becoming an iconic brand in senior hospitality. What began as a vision to create distinctive senior living communities has evolved into a collection of remarkable residences, offering luxury-inspired amenities and extraordinary service to residents and guests. Our communities include gracious apartments, stunning décor and design excellence at every turn, but from the moment you are greeted, you'll experience something far more luxurious than the architecture: our people. Their unparalleled commitment to personal service in every engagement is at the very heart of what we do.
About the Position
  • Full-Time, Monday to Friday with 1 weekend a month
  • 8:30am - 5:00pm
  • 1 FREE meal per shift

The Activities Assistant (FACETS® Assistant) is responsible for enhancing the overall Resident experience through the provision of exceptional implementation of the FACETS® program. FACETS® is Grand Living's collection of life-enriching experiences, which focus on the five dimensions of well-being: socialization, health and wellness, lifelong learning, legacy, and spirituality. This approach to daily life for our residents encompasses a rich variety of activities, life enrichment and holistic wellness all aimed at providing First Class Happiness®. The Activities Assistant is to model The Sterling Touch® friendly, courteous, helpful, timely and professional manner in all interactions, resulting in a very high level of resident satisfaction. The Activities Assistant position is under the general guidance of the Director of FACETS®, in accordance with Community standards, processes, procedures, practices and philosophy.
Qualifications and Requirements
The Activities Assistant must possess the following knowledge, skills and abilities:
  • High School Diploma or GED, required.
  • One or more years' experience in planning, coordinating, or leading activities and events, preferred.
  • Ability to read, write and understand the English language in order to communicate with the residents and other employees.
  • Our FACETS® program incorporates a variety of activities including theater, art, music, fitness, education, event planning and recreation. The ideal candidate must be willing and able to participate in the execution of a well-rounded, refined program which meets the needs and expectations of our educated, talented, sophisticated residents. Please be prepared to share your ideas on how to build a wellness centered program for our residents.
  • Ability to stand, walk, climb stairs, crouch, bend, stoop, reach, grasp, push, pull and work continuously without sitting for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to lift or carry up to 20 pounds.

Benefits
For the Activities Assistant position, we offer competitive compensation and a full benefits package for full-time employees including 1) a generous Paid Time Off (PTO) program offering 120 hours of PTO in the first year, increasing to 160 hours in the second year, and continuing to build with length of service; 2) affordable insurance options for medical, dental, vision and more; 3) a 401(k) with a 4% company match on a 5% contribution, 4) automatic life insurance and AD&D coverage for all team members with a robust employee assistance program (EAP).
PTO is earned at lesser rates for part-time staff. Grand Living is a high-end upscale environment including exquisite cuisine and free employee meals (must meet eligibility requirements), Grand Spa & Fitness facilities available for use at designated times.
Equal Employment Opportunity
At Grand Living, our motto is "Your Life. Uniquely Embraced." We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all, where our differences aren't just accepted, but celebrated.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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