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Activity Assistant Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

US Navy

Special Warfare Combat Crewman

Waterloo, IA

... activity; assist military and civilian law enforcement agencies when directed; conduct direct action raids against enemy shipping and waterborne traffic; integrate with and support other special ...

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Activity Assistant information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$9

$15

$20

How much do activity assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for activity assistant in Waterloo, IA is $15.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $17.07 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.

How do you 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 certification in first aid or activity planning. Applying through healthcare facilities, senior centers, or community organizations is common.

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 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.

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 certification in first aid or CPR. Job requirements vary by employer but generally involve assisting with planning and leading activities for residents or participants.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Activity jobs in Waterloo, IA? The most popular types of Activity jobs in Waterloo, IA are:
What are popular job titles related to Activity Assistant jobs in Waterloo, IA? For Activity Assistant jobs in Waterloo, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Activity Assistant jobs in Waterloo, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Activity Assistant jobs in Waterloo, IA are:
What cities near Waterloo, IA are hiring for Activity Assistant jobs? Cities near Waterloo, IA with the most Activity Assistant job openings:
Activity Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Activity Assistant job openings in Waterloo, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $32,790 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

Activities Director - 1st shift Full time

Pillar of Cedar Valley Nursing and Rehabilitation

Waterloo, IA • On-site

$22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

At Pillar of Cedar Valley, we love what we do and have fun while we're doing it! Working with our residents is an adventure. They've led amazing lives and have the stories to prove it. Here, you'll join a community of incredible residents and a company dedicated to providing the highest quality of service and care.

Position Summary

The Activities Director is responsible for providing all of the fun and excitement to residents and employees. As the Activities Director you will help to assure that our Activities are fun, fresh, engaging, and well attended, as directed and in accordance with established Activities policies and procedures. You will lead therapeutic programming while striving to enhance our Residents’ quality of life.

Benefits

     Competitive salary

     Medical, Dental & Vision plans

     Generous Vacation plan

     Paid Time Off

     Tuition Reimbursement

     Internal Growth Opportunities

     Positive work environment

     Regular staff appreciation and recognition

Job Description

  • Promote the residents' well-being and satisfaction by supporting Pillar of Cedar Valley in all areas of the residents' life

  • Develop and interpret standards of care, guide the interdisciplinary team to establish and implement the resident’s plan of care with the resident and his/her family and the Pillar team

  • Help to improve systems and eliminate barriers to resident centered care and services

  • Regulate content of program in accordance with residents’ capabilities, needs and interests

  • Provide one-on-one activities for residents who are unable or prefer not to be involved in group activities

  • Collaborate with residents, families, other professionals and staff to implement established programs that meet the psychosocial and activities needs of residents, including creating diverse opportunities for meaningful pursuits, daily pleasures, life enrichment, exercise, friendships, social interaction, growth and learning, fun and enjoyment, personal routines, and spontaneous activity

  • Assist residents with activities of their choice, group, individual, or one-on-one. Provide for resident leisure life activities. Take residents outdoors, or out in the facility community

  • Plan, implement and participate in outings and special events

  • Chart and participate in care plan and meetings as needed and required

  • Other duties as required

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Recreation Therapy or a specialty area such as art, dance, music or physical education. 

  • Experience leading group activities

  • Experienced in Skilled Nursing/Senior Living environment

  • Someone who is empathetic and can work with residents who may be ill, disabled, elderly, emotionally challenged, or difficult

Pillar of Cedar Valley Nursing and Rehabilitation is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for all employment, free from discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, religion, associational preferences, status as a qualified individual with a disability, or status as a protected veteran.