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Autism Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

BK Behavior

Teacher For Autism - Osceola, IA

Osceola, IA · On-site

... Autism. Be a vital part of a community dedicated to enhancing lives. Perks: * Same Day Pay! No more ... Great role for Teachers, Teachers Assistants, and Paraprofessionals! * Enjoy job security and ...

BK Behavior

Teacher For Autism - Osceola, IA

Osceola, IA · On-site

... Autism. Be a vital part of a community dedicated to enhancing lives. Perks: * Same Day Pay! No more ... Great role for Teachers, Teachers Assistants, and Paraprofessionals! * Enjoy job security and ...

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All JobsAutism JobsAutism Assistant JobsAutism Assistant Jobs in Iowa

Autism Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

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$14

$25

How much do autism assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for autism assistant in Iowa is $14.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.37 and $16.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an autism assistant?

To thrive as an Autism Assistant, you need a foundational understanding of autism spectrum disorders, experience in behavioral intervention, and typically a relevant certification such as Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). Familiarity with tools like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) software and data tracking systems is often required. Patience, strong communication, and empathy are crucial soft skills for building trust and supporting individuals with autism. These skills ensure effective support, promote positive behavioral outcomes, and foster meaningful connections in educational or therapeutic environments.

What is an autism assistant?

An Autism Assistant is a professional who supports individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in educational, social, or community settings. Their primary role is to help individuals with autism develop essential skills, manage behaviors, and participate in daily activities. Autism Assistants often work under the supervision of special education teachers, therapists, or behavioral specialists, and may assist with communication, social interaction, and implementing individualized support plans. They play a crucial role in fostering independence and improving the quality of life for those with autism.

What is the difference between Autism Assistant vs Behavior Technician?

AspectAutism AssistantBehavior Technician
Required CertificationsOften CPR/First Aid, sometimes specialized autism trainingBCBA, RBT, or similar behavior analysis certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentSchools, therapy centers, homesSimilar settings, including clinics and schools
Employer & IndustryEducational and healthcare providers specializing in autismBehavior analysis agencies, schools, healthcare providers
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both Autism Assistants and Behavior Technicians work in supporting individuals with autism, Behavior Technicians typically have more specialized training and certifications in behavior analysis. Autism Assistants often focus on day-to-day support and supervision, whereas Behavior Technicians implement behavior intervention plans under supervision. Both roles are vital in autism support services and share similar work environments.

What challenges do autism assistants face and how can they address them?

Autism Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing sensory sensitivities, navigating unpredictable behaviors, and promoting effective communication. To address these, it's important to use individualized support strategies, maintain patience, and collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams including teachers, therapists, and families. Regular training and open communication with colleagues help Autism Assistants adapt to each individual's unique needs and foster a supportive environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Autism jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Autism jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Autism Assistant jobs in Iowa? For Autism Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Autism Assistant jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Autism Assistant jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Autism Assistant jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Autism Assistant job openings:
Autism Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Autism Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,080 per year, or $14.9 per hour.

Direct Support Professional - Autism Care

American Baptist Homes of the Midwest

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Autism Care | Full-Time | $18.00/hr
Crest Services | Des Moines, IA
Start a rewarding career where your compassion truly matters.
Join Crest Services as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Autism Care and make a meaningful difference by providing individualized support to individuals with autism, developmental disabilities, mental health conditions, and traumatic brain injuries.
For more than 50 years, Crest Services has been a faith-based, nonprofit organization dedicated to providing compassionate, person-centered support in welcoming group home settings throughout Minnesota and Iowa. Founded in 1974, we are committed to helping individuals live meaningful, independent lives while creating a workplace where employees feel valued and supported.
In our most recent employee engagement survey, team members rated Crest Services as highly engaged, with the majority saying it's a great place to work.
If you're passionate about supporting individuals with autism and looking for a career where your work has a direct impact every day, we'd love to meet you.Why You'll Love Working at Crest Services
  • Competitive pay of $18.00 per hour
  • Full-time opportunity
  • Provide meaningful one-on-one support to an individual with autism
  • Build strong, trusting relationships with residents and team members
  • Make a direct impact by helping individuals achieve greater independence and quality of life
  • Paid training and ongoing support
  • Supportive team environment where DSPs are valued as much as the individuals we serve
  • Double-time pay for all hours worked on company-recognized holidays
  • Employee Referral Bonus Program
  • Hear back within 48 hours of applying
What You'll Do
As a Direct Support Professional - Autism Care, you'll provide individualized, person-centered support focused on safety, independence, and overall well-being.
Responsibilities include:
  • Provide dedicated one-on-one support to an individual with autism
  • Assist with daily living activities including bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and meal preparation
  • Provide support with medical-related care including catheter placement, wound care, and basic health monitoring
  • Maintain a safe, clean, and respectful living environment
  • Monitor and report changes in behavior, health, or overall well-being
  • Support transportation needs for appointments, activities, and community outings
  • Collaborate with healthcare professionals and team members to provide comprehensive care
  • Encourage independence while supporting individual goals and routines
Qualifications
  • Must be at least 21 years of age
  • Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and current auto insurance required
  • Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English
  • Minimum one year of experience in a medical, caregiving, or healthcare setting required
  • Prior experience supporting individuals with autism preferred
  • Experience with catheter care and wound management is a plus
  • Dependable, compassionate, patient, and detail-oriented
  • Ability to provide consistent, respectful, and individualized support
Benefits
Eligible employees enjoy access to:
  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • 403(b) Retirement Plan with discretionary employer match
  • Life and AD&D Insurance
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Accident and Critical Illness Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Join a Team That Makes a Difference
At Crest Services, our Direct Support Professionals are the foundation of the meaningful work we do. In this specialized Autism Care role, you'll have the opportunity to build a strong connection with an individual, support their goals, and make a lasting impact through compassionate, individualized care.
Apply today-we're excited to meet you and typically respond within 48 hours!
#abhm
To apply, please complete the required questionnaire. We accept applications on a rolling basis.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, veteran or military status, citizenship status, pregnancy (including childbirth, lactation, and related conditions), political affiliation, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. If you require accommodations during the interview process, please let us know. Reasonable accommodations will be provided upon request to ensure equal opportunity for all applicants.
Applicants may be subject to a background check. Employees in this position must be able to satisfactorily perform the essential functions of the position. If requested, this organization will make every effort to provide reasonable accommodations to enable employees with disabilities to perform the position's essential job duties. As markets change and the Organization grows, job descriptions may change over time as requirements and employee skill levels evolve. With this understanding, this organization retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.

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