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Day Program Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

ChildServe

Autism Day Program Assistant

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$16.04/hr

Description Join ChildServe 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 ...

ChildServe

Autism Day Program Assistant

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$15.06/hr

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.

ChildServe

Autism Day Program Assistant

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$15.06/hr

Description Join ChildServe 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 ...

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How much do day program jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for day program in Iowa is $49,180.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,600.00 and $55,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Day Program job?

A Day Program job involves supporting individuals with disabilities, seniors, or those needing assistance in a structured daytime setting. Responsibilities typically include facilitating activities, providing personal care, fostering social engagement, and ensuring a safe environment. Staff may assist with life skills development, educational programs, and community outings. The goal is to enhance participants' quality of life and promote independence.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Day Program position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Day Program role, you need a background in social services, special education, or a related field, supported by experience working with individuals with developmental or behavioral challenges. Knowledge of individualized support planning, data documentation systems, and certifications such as CPR/First Aid are often required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and effective teamwork make employees excel in this position. These abilities are crucial for delivering meaningful support, ensuring client safety, and fostering a positive group environment.

What are the typical daily responsibilities in a Day Program position?

In a Day Program role, your daily responsibilities generally include planning and facilitating group activities, supporting individual client goals, and assisting with daily living skills when needed. You may also be responsible for documenting progress, communicating with family members or care managers, and helping to create a safe and engaging environment. Collaboration with other staff, therapists, and sometimes community partners is common to ensure well-rounded support for participants. The role can be dynamic and rewarding, providing opportunities to make a real impact in clients' lives through structured routines and creative programming.
More about Day Program jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Program jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Program jobs in Iowa are:
What job categories do people searching Day Program jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Day Program jobs in Iowa are:
Day Program jobs near you
Autism Day Program Assistant

Autism Day Program Assistant

ChildServe

Des Moines, IA

$16.04/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

ChildServe rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Join ChildServe 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 between $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 emailing careers@childserve.org. 

Make a Difference Every Day at ChildServe

  • ChildServe partners with families to help children with special healthcare needs live a great life. 
  • 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’s four 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, ChildServe proudly 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. ChildServe is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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