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Day Program Adults With Disability Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

ChildServe

Autism Day Program Assistant

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$16.04/hr

Must complete and pass the National DCI fingerprint process, child/adult abuse and criminal ... with disabilities. To request assistance with the application process, please email careers ...

Faith & Family Care INC

Host Home Provider

Waterloo, IA · Remote

$100 - $400/day

In our host home program, adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities live with a caring ... per day. What kinds of disabilities do adults in the program have? The adults we serve have ...

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Day Program Adults With Disability information

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How much do day program adults with disability jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for day program adults with disability in Iowa is $17.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $21.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by staff working in a day program for adults with disabilities, and how can they be effectively addressed?

Staff in day programs for adults with disabilities often encounter challenges such as managing diverse support needs, fostering engagement among participants with varying abilities, and adapting activities to suit individual preferences. Effective communication, patience, and ongoing training in person-centered approaches are key to overcoming these challenges. Team collaboration and regular debriefings also help staff share strategies, stay motivated, and ensure the best possible experience for participants.

What is the difference between Day Program Adults With Disability vs Supported Employment Specialist?

AspectDay Program Adults With DisabilitySupported Employment Specialist
CredentialsTypically no formal certification requiredOften requires certifications like CPR, First Aid, or supported employment credentials
Work EnvironmentGroup settings focused on social and daily living activitiesOne-on-one or small group settings assisting clients in employment
Employer & Industry UsageNon-profit organizations, community centers, government programsEmployment agencies, vocational rehabilitation services, nonprofits
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding day programs for adults with disabilitiesAssisting clients in finding supported employment opportunities

Day Program Adults With Disability primarily focus on social, recreational, and daily living activities within group settings, often without formal certifications. Supported Employment Specialists work directly with individuals to secure and maintain employment, often requiring specific certifications and working in employment-focused environments. Both roles serve adults with disabilities but differ in their primary objectives and work settings.

What is a Day Program for Adults with Disabilities?

A Day Program for adults with disabilities is a structured service that provides social, recreational, educational, and vocational activities during the day. These programs are designed to support adults with physical, intellectual, or developmental disabilities by promoting independence, skill development, and community involvement. Participants benefit from a safe environment, opportunities for personal growth, and social interaction with peers. Day programs may also offer support with daily living skills and access to therapies as needed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Day Program Coordinator for Adults with Disabilities, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Day Program Coordinator for Adults with Disabilities, you need experience in disability services, a relevant qualification (such as a certificate in disability support or social services), and knowledge of care standards. Familiarity with individualized service plans, assistive technology, and documentation or scheduling systems is common. Compassion, patience, and strong interpersonal communication are essential soft skills for fostering supportive relationships and addressing participant needs. These skills are critical for ensuring the safety, engagement, and well-being of program participants in a respectful, empowering environment.
What job categories do people searching Day Program Adults With Disability jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Day Program Adults With Disability jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Day Program Adults With Disability jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Day Program Adults With Disability job openings:
Day Program Adults With Disability jobs near you
Infographic showing various Day Program Adults With Disability job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,177 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Autism Day Program Assistant

ChildServe

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$16.04/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

ChildServe rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

JoinChildServe as an Autism Day Program Assistant, where you will contribute to the lives of children ages 2-6 by supporting their health, skill development and retention in our Autism Day Program. You will provide and assist with the care of children with varying functioning levels across the autism spectrum. Through direct collaboration with occupational, speech, and physical therapists, and a play-based environment, you will assist with developmental goals as designated by each child's individualized care plan.

Schedule and Compensation

Monday-Friday, 40 hours per week between hours of operation: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM

The starting pay rate for this role is $16.04/hour.

How You'll Make an Impact

  • Support children in achieving greater independence and school readiness through individualized care, learning, and play in a 1:3 ratio.
  • Collaborate with behavioral health professionals, therapists, and other team members to follow care plans and meet therapy goals within scope of practice.
  • Maintain a safe, consistent, and engaging environment while assisting with daily needs such as feeding, diapering, and toilet training.
  • Promote communication and social-emotional development using tools like PECS, communication devices, and guided behavioral support.
  • Accurately document care, follow change-of-shift procedures, and communicate professionally with families, staff, and community partners.

What You'll Need:

  • Two-year degree in human services or education preferred; experience working with children with special healthcare needs preferred.
  • Must complete and pass the National DCI fingerprint process, child/adult abuse and criminal background checks, and child abuse affidavit prior to hire and every two years thereafter.
  • Must be able to pass a physical examination at commencement of employment and as regulations require; lift up to 35 lbs, be mobile within clinic areas, and frequently bend, lift, reach, and stand.
  • Maintain a calm demeanor in an environment that can change quickly with elevated behaviors and different demands, and communicate effectively in reading, writing, and speaking the English language.

Not sure if you hit 100% of the position expectations? Let's talk! Reach out to our Talent Acquisition team by emailingcareers@childserve.org.

Make a Difference Every Day at ChildServe

  • ChildServepartners with families to help children with special healthcare needs live agreatlife.
  • ChildServe is a leading pediatric healthcare provider with Iowa's only children's specialty hospital, offering a variety of services and programs to meet each child's unique needs.
  • ChildServe'sfour key specialty areas include: complex medical care, pediatric rehabilitation, autism and behavioral health, and community-based services. With a coordinated approach to care delivery, services are interwoven and streamlined, so families can address their child's needs in one location.
  • Established in 1928, ChildServeproudly provides more than 30 pediatric specialty services to nearly 6,000 children in Iowa each year.

ChildServe is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. To request assistance with the application process, please email careers@childserve.org. ChildServeis an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Employment Type: Full-Time

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