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Activity Director Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Harmony Dubuque

Activity Director

Dubuque, IA

$18 - $24.50/hr

  • Retirement

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 ...

Harmony Dubuque

Activity Director

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

  • Retirement

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 ...

Harmony Dubuque

Activity Director

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

  • Retirement

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 ...

Homestead of Osceola

Activity Director

Osceola, IA

$18 - $24.50/hr

... Director, RCC or Unit Manager. Treat residents, family members, visitors, and team members with ... Responsible for planning and implementing activities to meet resident's specific needs, including ...

Oak Park Place

Activity Assistant

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Working under the direction of the Activity Director you will help organize, plan, and execute a well-balanced activity program * Organize, lead, and promote interest in recreational activities, such ...

Bickford of Suffolk

Activities Director

Davenport, IA · On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Provide training and guidance to staff on Montessori methods and the importance of activity-based ... Certifications: Certified Activity Director (ADC) or equivalent certification preferred, or ...

Bickford of Davenport

Activities Director

Davenport, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $23/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Provide training and guidance to staff on Montessori methods and the importance of activity-based ... Certifications: Certified Activity Director (ADC) or equivalent certification preferred, or ...

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Activity Director information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$22

$39

How much do activity director jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for activity director in Iowa is $22.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $23.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an activity director?

Activity Directors are professionals responsible for planning, organizing, and leading recreational and social activities, typically in settings such as senior living communities, nursing homes, or rehabilitation centers. Their goal is to enhance the quality of life for participants by providing engaging programs that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. They assess residents' interests and abilities, develop activity calendars, and often coordinate events with volunteers or other staff. Activity Directors also document participation and may adapt activities to meet the needs of individuals with varying abilities.

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

To thrive as an Activity Director, you need strong organizational skills, creativity, and experience in planning group activities, often supported by a degree in recreation, social work, or a related field. Familiarity with scheduling software, budgeting tools, and sometimes certifications like ADC (Activity Director Certified) are common requirements. Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills help motivate participants and collaborate with staff and families. These abilities are crucial for developing engaging programs that enhance participant well-being and meet regulatory standards.

How does an activity director typically collaborate with nursing and therapy staff in a senior living facility?

An Activity Director works closely with nursing and therapy teams to ensure that planned activities are safe, appropriate, and tailored to residents' physical and cognitive abilities. Regular meetings and ongoing communication help coordinate schedules, adapt activities for varying health needs, and support residents' overall well-being. This collaboration ensures that activities not only provide enjoyment but also align with care plans and therapeutic goals. Building strong relationships with these teams is essential for creating a supportive and engaging environment for residents.

What is the difference between Activity Director vs Recreation Therapist?

AspectActivity DirectorRecreation Therapist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certification in activity planningDegree in recreation therapy, therapeutic recreation, or related field; certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentSenior living communities, nursing homes, adult day programsHealthcare settings, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, senior care facilities
Employer & IndustryLong-term care, assisted living, senior centersHealthcare, mental health, rehabilitation, senior care

While both roles focus on engaging clients through activities, Recreation Therapists have specialized training to develop therapeutic programs that address health and recovery goals. Activity Directors primarily plan recreational activities to enhance quality of life. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

Do you need a degree to be an activity director?

A degree is not always required to become an activity director, but many employers prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills such as communication, organization, and experience working with seniors or in recreational activities are important, and some positions may require certification in activities or therapeutic recreation.

How much does an activity director make?

In Wisconsin, activity directors typically earn an average annual salary of around $35,000 to $45,000, depending on experience and setting. Salaries can vary based on the type of facility, certifications, and workload, with some positions offering additional benefits or bonuses.

What are the duties of an activity director?

An activity director plans, organizes, and oversees recreational and social activities for residents or clients, often in settings like senior centers or healthcare facilities. They assess participants' interests, coordinate events, and ensure activities promote engagement and well-being, typically requiring good communication skills and organizational abilities.
More about Activity Director jobs

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 Director jobs in Iowa?

For Activity Director jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Activity Director jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Activity Director jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Activity Director jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Activity Director job openings:

Activity Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Activity Director job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,089 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Activity Director

Harmony Dubuque

Dubuque, IA

$18 - $24.50/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Are you looking for a rewarding career in Skilled Nursing? 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 providing opportunities to further your career and with the tools and encouragement you need to succeed. We offer great benefits including:

  • Competitive wages.
  • Bonus opportunities.
  • Shift differentials.
  • Tuition reimbursement.
  • Internal growth opportunities.
  • Comprehensive benefits package.
  • 401K with employer match.
  • Employee concierge program.
  • And more!

As an Activity Director you are responsible for our residents’ emotional and social wellbeing. Your work will ensure our residents receive the high standard of care they have grown to expect at Harmony Dubuque by implementing and directing activity programs that meet the physical, emotional, and psychosocial needs of our residents, overseeing all aspects of the Activity Department, participating in resident care conferences and developing new activity programs to keeping up with trends and industry standards. Our residents will depend on your knowledge, skills, and attention to detail to ensure they are comfortable and safe.

To be eligible for consideration applicants should have:

As a minimum, a high school diploma or equivalent. Prior Activity Aide and/or Activity Director experience in a Skilled Nursing Facility setting, one (1) year of experience in a director or managerial role and NCCAP Certification is preferable but we are willing to invest in the right candidate!

Harmony Dubuque is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, expression or orientation, genetic information, national origin, age, disability, or status as a disabled or Vietnam-era veteran. When completing this application, you may exclude information that would disclose or reference this information, or any information relating to any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.

Harmony Dubuque never requests or sends money, payment transfers, direct deposit, or Social Security Number (SSN) information as part of their recruitment process.