1

Activity Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Abbe Health Activity Specialist

Marion, IA · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Provides personal care and services to assist participants with activities of daily living, including toileting, showers, eating assistance, grooming and oral care. Performs laundry, housekeeping ...

Abbe Health Activity Specialist

Marion, IA · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Provides personal care and services to assist participants with activities of daily living, including toileting, showers, eating assistance, grooming and oral care. Performs laundry, housekeeping ...

Activity Coordinator

Windsor Heights, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Are you an Activities Coordinator looking to work for an amazing organization by serving others and ... Active Certified Nursing Assistant (C.N.A.) certificate required or must be obtained within six (6) ...

Activity Coordinator

Windsor Heights, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Overview Are you an Activities Coordinator looking to work for an amazing organization by serving ... Active Certified Nursing Assistant (C.N.A.) certificate required or must be obtained within six (6) ...

Activity Director

Osceola, IA · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Responsible for planning and implementing activities to meet resident's specific needs, including ... Must be able to assist in the evacuation of residents during emergency situations. * Must be able ...

Activity Director

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

We are currently searching for an Activity Director to join our friendly, caring and supportive team! Harmony Dubuque is rapidly growing and our team is looking to invest in an Activity Director by ...

Activity Director

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

We are currently searching for an Activity Director to join our friendly, caring and supportive team! Harmony House Care Center is rapidly growing and our team is looking to invest in an Activity ...

Activity Director

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$17 - $23.25/hr

The Vistas at Bettendorf is looking to hire a full-time Certified Activities Director to join our team. Do you want to be part of a dynamic and caring clinical team? If so, please read on!This ...

Activity Aide

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$13.50 - $17.75/hr

We are currently searching for Activity Aides to join our friendly, caring and supportive team! Harmony House Care Center is looking to invest in Activity Aides by providing opportunities to further ...

Activity Aide

Guttenberg, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $17.50/hr

We are currently searching for Activity Aides to join our friendly, caring and supportive team! Guttenberg Care Center is looking to invest in Activity Aides by providing opportunities to further ...

Showing results 41-60

Activity Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$15

$19

How much do activity assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 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 an activity assistant?

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.

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.

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 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.

How do you become an activity assistant?

To become an activity assistant, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required, along with experience in activities or caregiving. Relevant skills include communication, organization, and creativity, and some positions may require background checks or certifications in first aid or CPR. Gaining experience through volunteering or entry-level roles can also improve chances of employment.

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

The most popular types of Activity jobs in Iowa 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:

Infographic showing various Activity Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,234 per year, or $15 per hour.

Activities Director - Senior Living

Foundry Commercial

Grinnell, IA • On-site

$16.75 - $23/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Activities Director (Lifestyle Director) - Windsor Manor Grinnell
Grinnell, IA | Full-Time | 5 Days/Week | 8:00am-4:00pm
Lead with creativity. Inspire with purpose. Make every day matter.
Windsor Manor Grinnell is seeking a passionate, experienced Activities Director (Lifestyle Director) to lead our life enrichment program across Assisted Living and Memory Care. This is a director-level role for someone who takes full ownership of programming - from vision to execution - and who understands that a thriving activities department is the heartbeat of a great senior living community.
If you're creative, organized, and genuinely love working with seniors, this is your stage.
What You'll Own:
  • Design, lead, and oversee a comprehensive life enrichment calendar that serves both Assisted Living and Memory Care residents
  • Plan and execute engaging daily activities - fitness, music, arts, social events, outings, and more
  • Build meaningful relationships with residents, honoring their individual stories and preferences
  • Coordinate special events, holiday celebrations, and family programming
  • Transport residents on community outings safely and responsibly
  • Maintain accurate documentation and ensure compliance with state activity requirements
  • Some weekends and holiday coverage required

What You Bring:
  • Activity Professional Requirement Course certification - required
  • Prior experience in activities leadership or life enrichment - preferred
  • Valid driver's license and clean driving record - required
  • Creative, energetic, and genuinely passionate about senior care
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to lead a programming department independently
  • Experience working with Memory Care/dementia populations a plus

Why Windsor Manor Grinnell?
Windsor Manor is a close-knit, mission-driven senior living community where the Activities Director plays a central role in resident quality of life. You'll have the autonomy to build a program you're proud of, backed by an Executive Director who values what you bring to the table - in a community where your work is seen, celebrated, and appreciated every day.
Windsor Manor Grinnell | 229 Pearl St, Grinnell, IA 50112
Full-Time | Director-Level | Activity Professional Certification Required
Apply today and lead a program that changes lives every single day!
The primary responsibility of the Lifestyle Director is to manage and direct the Lifestyle department to provide a diverse, appealing, full-time social and activity program at the community for all residents and their families. Such a program should include a variety of social, recreational, physical, educational, and spiritual opportunities for resident involvement that encourages socialization and creativity, improves daily living skills, expands personal interest, and increases physical activity and education.
Areas of Responsibility
  • Develop an annual activity plan that supports achievement of Company goals and ownership objectives.
  • Oversee the administration of the Lifestyle department according to Company policies and procedures and submit relevant reports and narratives as required.
  • Recruit, hire, train, manage, motivate, and evaluate Lifestyle Assistants, Drivers, and Concierge personnel, including corrective action and recommendations for separation decisions, according to Company policies and procedures.
  • Schedule the Driver and Lifestyle Assistant to stay within budgeted department guidelines and optimize the hours of the Lifestyle program so that day, evening, and weekend opportunities for activities, programs, and outings exist.
  • Create and manage a resident transportation schedule and assist in maintaining community transportation vehicles per Company policies and procedures, ensuring adherence to the transportation budget and expenditures.
  • Create and manage the activity budget within approved guidelines and according to Company goals and ownership objectives.
  • Establish a full-time activity program that supports residents' interests and is available seven days a week.
  • Other job duties assigned - see full job description.

Required Qualifications
  • Must be a minimum of 21 years of age.
  • Minimum two (2) years experience as Activity Director or Activity Assistant at an independent living, assisted living or skilled nursing community with related skills in scheduling activities, special events, and leading group activities.
  • Must have working knowledge of appropriate Microsoft Office programs.
  • Must possess attention to detail, be energetic/enthusiastic, and able to multi-task.
  • Must have positive Criminal Background Screening.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license for the state where the vehicle is operated. CDL with passenger endorsement preferred.
  • The Community is a drug free workplace; associates are subject to adherence to the Company Drug Free Workplace policy.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Knowledge of local recreational opportunities is a plus.
  • CDL license a perk, may be required at some locations, inquire within.

Allegro Living, LLC serves as the parent company of Allegro Management Company and Spring Arbor Management Company, uniting decades of senior living expertise under one trusted name. Formed through the 2025 merger of two well-established brands, Allegro Living is building a premier senior living platform defined by inspired lifestyles, compassionate care, and meaningful regional reach. The only thing we're missing is YOU!
Equal Employment Opportunity & Non-Discrimination
Allegro Living provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.