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Activity Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Activities Specialist-Pathways

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $21/hr

... activity preferences, and assistance needs during recreational activities within 30 days of enrollment and annually. Provides personal care and services to assist participants with activities of ...

Activity Director

Centerville, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $21.50/hr

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

Activity Director

Centerville, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $21.50/hr

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

Activity Aide

Waterloo, IA

$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 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 Aide

Armstrong, IA · On-site

$13.50 - $17.75/hr

We are currently searching for Activity Aides to join our friendly, caring and supportive team! Valley Vue Care Center is rapidly growing and our team is looking to invest in Activity Aides by ...

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 ...

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Activity Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$15

$19

How much do activity assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 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 cities in Iowa are hiring for Activity Assistant jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Activity Assistant job openings:
Activities Coordinator I

Activities Coordinator I

Immanuel

Council Bluffs, IA • On-site

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Overview

Are you an Activitites Coordinator I looking to work for an amazing organization by serving others and connecting with your co-workers?

Immanuel Pathways PACE is seeking an Activities Coordinator I to work at 1702 North 16th Street, Council Bluffs, IA 51501.

The schedule for this position is Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, with no Weekends or Holidays.

Pay will be based upon experience, certifications, skills and education.

Best in Class Benefits can be found at Immanuel:

  • HEALTH: Medical, dental, vision, Health Savings Account (HSA), and Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • LIFE INSURANCE: Employer Paid Life Insurance
  • TIME OFF: Paid Time Off - accruing from day one of employment, Floating Holidays, Paid Holidays, 8 hours of Volunteer Time Off per year
  • RETIREMENT: 401K with employer match
  • WELLNESS: Wellness Program and Employee Assistance Program
  • GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT: Advancement opportunities (as appropriate) - we look to grow from within our organization, Education Assistance Program - we invest up to $5,250 per year for education assistance paid up front
  • Plus many more benefits!
Job Duties & Skills Required

What You Will Do

Implements recreational therapy programs and activities to improve the functioning of participants who have a wide variety of physical, cognitive, social and emotional needs under the clinical supervision of a Certified Recreational Therapist. This position is responsible for completing participant assessments, care plan documentation including developing/tracking goals and interventions as assigned. The responsibilities of this job include assisting with planning, developing, marketing, and implementing events, programs and activities for participants.

Skills & Requirements

High School Diploma or GED/equivalent required.

Active Certified Nursing Assistant (C.N.A.) certificate required or must be obtained within six (6) months of hire.

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 population required.  Experience within the last five years preferred.

One (1) year of experience which is/was full-time in a patient activities program and in a health care setting required.

One (1) year of experience working with the frail or elderly population required, or completion of job specific training related to working with the elderly population must be completed within the first six months of hire.

Must have a valid driver's license, proof of insurance and have reliable means of transportation.

Immanuel

At Immanuel, we believe that our success is built on the collective strength of our people.  Here's why you'll thrive as part of our team:

  •  Meaningful work: You won't just have a job; you will have a purpose.  Our Mission impacts the lives of our residents/participants and their families, one another, and our community.
  • Growth Opportunities: We invest in your development.  Whether it's mentorship, training, or advancement, we're committed to your growth.
  • Inclusive Culture: We celebrate uniqueness and foster an environment where everyone feels valued.
  • Work-Life Harmony: We believe in allowing you to thrive by leveraging your passion.  Achieve your best work while maintaining a healthy work-life harmony.
  • Total Rewards: A focus on feedback and recognition, competitive compensation, a robust benefits package, and perks beyond the basics.
  • Intentional Experience: We are very intentional about your employee experience, from Day One Orientation to how we onboard new managers and invest in quarterly and annual leadership training.  

 Join us at Immanuel and be a part of something extraordinary.  Your journey starts here.

 

  • Immanuel is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-Verify.
  • A background check and drug screen will be required prior to hire.
  • Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.
Employment Type: OTHER