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Activity Director Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

UnityPoint Health

Abbe Health Activity Specialist

Marion, IA

$18 - $24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Performs laundry, housekeeping, direct care, and other duties as assigned. May drive participants ... activities for elderly, developmentally disabled, and/or mentally ill, required CPR Certification ...

UnityPoint Health

Abbe Health Activity Specialist

Marion, IA · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Performs laundry, housekeeping, direct care, and other duties as assigned. May drive participants ... activities for elderly, developmentally disabled, and/or mentally ill, required CPR Certification ...

Harmony Marshalltown

Activity Aide

Marshalltown, IA · On-site

$13.50 - $17.50/hr

  • Retirement

We are currently searching for Activity Aides to join our friendly, caring and supportive team ... Harmony Marshalltown never requests or sends money, payment transfers, direct deposit, or Social ...

Harmony Marshalltown

Activity Aide

Marshalltown, IA · On-site

$13.50 - $17.50/hr

  • Retirement

We are currently searching for Activity Aides to join our friendly, caring and supportive team ... Harmony Marshalltown never requests or sends money, payment transfers, direct deposit, or Social ...

Legacy Healthcare

Activity Aide

Guttenberg, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $17.50/hr

  • Retirement

We are currently searching for Activity Aides to join our friendly, caring and supportive team ... Guttenberg Care Center never requests or sends money, payment transfers, direct deposit, or Social ...

Legacy Healthcare

Activity Aide

Indianola, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

  • Retirement

We are currently searching for Activity Aides to join our friendly, caring and supportive team ... Westview Of Indianola Care Center never requests or sends money, payment transfers, direct deposit ...

Westview Of Indianola Care Center

Activity Aide

Indianola, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

  • Retirement

We are currently searching for Activity Aides to join our friendly, caring and supportive team ... Westview Of Indianola Care Center never requests or sends money, payment transfers, direct deposit ...

Guttenberg Care Center

Activity Aide

Guttenberg, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $17.50/hr

  • Retirement

We are currently searching for Activity Aides to join our friendly, caring and supportive team ... Guttenberg Care Center never requests or sends money, payment transfers, direct deposit, or Social ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsActivity JobsActivity Director JobsActivity Director Jobs in Iowa

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.

MS Wild Card Activity - Hoyt

Young World Physical Education

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

MS Wild Card Activity - Hoyt

Des Moines Public School District HOYT MIDDLE - Des Moines, Iowa. Open on Google Maps.

Job Description

TITLE: MS Wild Card Activity Stipend

POSITION TYPE: Wild Card Activity

STIPEND AMOUNT: $2165 (1.0 FTE) or $1082.50 (.5 FTE)

BASIC FUNCTION: This position is responsible for sponsoring the student activity. Activities vary by building.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Serves as the leader and manager for the activity.
  • Develops a regular schedule and organizes practice time.
  • Coaches and instructs students in the activity.
  • Establishes and maintains written standards of student behavior and provides proper supervision at all times.
  • Maintains emergency data cards and other related records.
  • Reports and secures approval from Director of Activities and School Equity for all adults associated with their activity.
  • Follows and maintains knowledge of all district policies and procedures.

ADDITIONAL ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (for every DMPS position):

  • Attend work on a prompt and regular basis.
  • Maintain confidentiality.
  • Maintain satisfactory and harmonious working relationships with the public, students, and other employees.
  • Assist with other duties as may be assigned.

DEPARTMENT: Activities Department

REPORTS TO: Activities Director

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

FT/PT: Part time

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Varies by activity

WORKING CONDITIONS: Inside or outside, depending on activity

All candidates offered a position will be required to successfully pass a criminal background check, and a child and adult abuse registry check. Certain positions may require fingerprinting, a drug and alcohol test, a physical capacity test and/or a motor vehicle record check.

The Des Moines Independent Community School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, disability, religion, creed, age (for employment), marital status (for programs), sexual orientation, gender identity and socioeconomic status (for programs) in its educational programs and its employment practices. If you have questions, concerns or a complaint related to this policy, please contact Carol Wynn-Green, 901 Walnut Street, Des Moines, IA 50309; phone: 515-242-7709; email: carol.wynngreen@dmschools.org. Complaints can also be directed to the Iowa Civil Rights Commission, 400 E. 14th Street, Des Moines, IA 50319-1004, (515) 281-4121, or Region VII Office for Civil Rights, Citigroup Center 500 W. Madison Street, Suite 1475 Chicago, IL 60661-4544.

Job Requirements
  • Citizenship, residency or work visa required
Contact Information
  • Lillie Noland, HR Executive Assistant
  • Human Resources
  • Phone: 5152427701
  • Email: lillie.noland@dmschools.org
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