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Educational Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

The purpose of the Assistant Educator is to support the Lead Educator in providing a nurturing, positive, and innovative learning environment where young children can thrive and develop essential ...

Assistant Educator

Norwalk, IA ยท On-site

$14/hr

The purpose of the Assistant Educator is to support the Lead Educator in providing a nurturing, positive, and innovative learning environment where young children can thrive and develop essential ...

Assistant Educator

Ankeny, IA ยท On-site

$14 - $16/hr

The purpose of the Assistant Educator is to support the Lead Educator in providing a nurturing, positive, and innovative learning environment where young children can thrive and develop essential ...

Assistant Educator

Grimes, IA ยท On-site

$14/hr

The purpose of the Assistant Educator is to support the Lead Educator in providing a nurturing, positive, and innovative learning environment where young children can thrive and develop essential ...

The Assistant Educator role supports the Lead Educator in creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for children. Guided by the Lead Educator, Director, and Administration, they ...

Assistant Educator

Waukee, IA ยท On-site

$14 - $16/hr

The Assistant Educator role supports the Lead Educator in creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for children. Guided by the Lead Educator, Director, and Administration, they ...

Assistant Educator

Marion, IA ยท On-site

$14 - $16/hr

The Assistant Educator role supports the Lead Educator in creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for children. Guided by the Lead Educator, Director, and Administration, they ...

The Assistant Educator role supports the Lead Educator in creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for children. Guided by the Lead Educator, Director, and Administration, they ...

Assistant Educator

Waukee, IA ยท On-site

$14 - $16/hr

The Assistant Educator role supports the Lead Educator in creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for children. Guided by the Lead Educator, Director, and Administration, they ...

Showing results 41-60

Educational Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$16

$21

How much do educational assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for educational assistant in Iowa is $16.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an educational assistant?

Educational Assistants, sometimes called teacher aides or paraprofessionals, are support staff who work under the supervision of teachers to help students succeed in the classroom. They assist with instructional tasks, provide one-on-one or small group support, and help manage classroom activities. Educational Assistants often work with students who have special needs or require extra help, contributing to a positive and inclusive learning environment. Their role varies depending on the school, but they are an essential part of the educational team.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an educational assistant?

To thrive as an Educational Assistant, you need knowledge of educational practices, child development, and typically a high school diploma or relevant certification. Familiarity with classroom technology, special education software, and basic administrative systems is often required. Patience, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to effectively collaborate with teachers and students are vital soft skills. These qualities ensure that Educational Assistants can support diverse learners, maintain a positive classroom environment, and contribute to overall educational success.

What are some common challenges educational assistants face when supporting diverse student needs in the classroom?

Educational Assistants often work with students who have a wide range of learning abilities, backgrounds, and behavioral needs. Balancing individual attention with the demands of the overall classroom can be challenging, especially when students require different types of support simultaneously. Collaboration with teachers and specialists is essential to ensure that accommodations are effective and that all students remain engaged. Flexibility, patience, and strong communication skills are key to successfully navigating these challenges and fostering a positive learning environment.

What is the difference between Educational Assistant vs Teacher Aide?

AspectEducational AssistantTeacher Aide
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certification or experienceHigh school diploma; often similar certification requirements
Work EnvironmentAssist in classrooms, special education, or support roles within schoolsSupport teachers in classroom activities, often in similar settings
Employer & Industry UsagePublic and private schools, special education programsPrimarily in schools, often used interchangeably with Educational Assistant

Both roles support classroom activities and may require similar credentials. The main difference lies in terminology and specific job duties, but they often overlap in work environment and employer usage.

What are the duties of an educational assistant?

An educational assistant supports teachers by helping with classroom management, supervising students, and providing instructional assistance. They may assist with lesson preparation, help students with learning activities, and monitor student behavior, often working under the supervision of a licensed teacher. Strong communication skills and familiarity with educational tools are important for this role.

What degree do you need to be an educational assistant?

Educational assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; however, many employers prefer or require postsecondary education such as an associate's degree or relevant coursework in education or child development. Certification or training in first aid and behavior management can also be beneficial depending on the setting.
More about Educational Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Educational jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Educational jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Educational Assistant jobs in Iowa?

For Educational Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Educational Assistant jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Educational Assistant jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Educational Assistant jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Educational Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Educational Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,041 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Assistant Educator

Yellow Brick Road

West Des Moines, IA โ€ข On-site

$14/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
At Yellow Brick Road, we're on a mission to put good humans into the world and leave it better than we found it. Our team creates warm, inclusive, and joyful environments where children, families, and staff can thrive. If you're energized by purpose, connection, and meaningful work, you'll love being part of a community that invests in your growth and celebrates what makes you exceptional.
The purpose of the Assistant Educator is to support the Lead Educator in providing a nurturing, positive, and innovative learning environment where young children can thrive and develop essential skills for lifelong success. Through collaboration, flexibility, and care, our Assistant Educators play a vital role in promoting social and emotional development, encouraging curiosity, and reinforcing daily routines. By embracing our core values, Assistant Educators help maintain a safe and stimulating space where each child is valued, respected, and supported on their learning journey.
What You'll Do:
Support Curriculum Implementation:
  • Assist the Lead Educator in implementing play-based, age-appropriate lesson plans and activities that support children's physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development.
  • Help maintain a positive classroom culture that fosters a sense of belonging, safety, and curiosity.

Child Supervision and Interaction:
  • Supervise and engage with children to ensure their safety and active participation in daily activities.
  • Help monitor children's developmental progress and support documentation as directed by the Lead Educator.

Classroom Management Support:
  • Assist in maintaining an organized, clean, and safe classroom environment.
  • Help guide children in conflict resolution and problem-solving with developmentally appropriate techniques.
  • Support adherence to classroom schedules and routines.

Family Communication:
  • Communication positively and professionally with families during drop-off, pick-up, and as needed, under the guidance from the Lead Educator and Director.
  • Provide daily communication through the company's Parent Communication app with parents and families to provide updates on their child's daily progress, activities, and development.

Professional Development:
  • Collaborate with colleagues and supervisors to share ideas, resources, and best practices, that fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation.

Requirements
What You'll Need:
  • Previous experience working with young children in a childcare setting is preferred.
  • Knowledge of early childhood development principles and best practices.
  • Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
  • Ability to meet the physical demands of the job, which may include:
  • Standing or sitting for extended periods of time.
  • Lifting and carrying young children and classroom materials up to 65lbs.
  • Bending, stooping, and kneeling to interact with children at their level.
  • Ability to respond quickly to emergencies or situations requiring physical intervention.
  • Willingness to undergo background checks and meet state licensing requirements for working in a childcare setting.
  • Must possess a valid CPR/First Aid certification, or willing to obtain within 30 days of employment.

What We Offer:
  • Ongoing Professional Development & Growth Opportunities
  • Monday - Friday Schedule - No Weekends!
  • 401(k) Plan
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays
  • Employee Childcare Discount

The starting pay range for this position is $14 to $15 an hour and is applicable for candidates who will be working in our locations in Iowa. This range is subject to adjustment for other geographic work locations. In addition to geographic location, Yellow Brick Road considers education, experience, internal equity, market demands, and other qualifying criteria to determine starting wages.
In addition to compensation benefits, Yellow Brick Road offers a variety of health and welfare benefits, based on eligibility, including medical and dental insurance, life insurance, and career development.
Salary Description
Starting at $14/hr