1

Medical Assistant Externship Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Medical Assistant - PRN

Pella, IA · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

National certification in Medical Assisting from a Premise Health approved organization OR Certificate/Diploma and Transcripts from an accredited Medical Assistant program with hands on externship ...

Medical Assistant

Des Moines, IA

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Graduate of an accredited medical assistant program with completion of an externship highly preferred, OR at least one year of direct patient care experience as a medical assistant, OR military ...

Medical Assistant

Urbandale, IA

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Graduate of an accredited medical assistant program with completion of an externship highly preferred, OR at least one year of direct patient care experience as a medical assistant, OR military ...

Medical Assistant

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Graduate of an accredited medical assistant program with completion of an externship highly preferred, OR at least one year of direct patient care experience as a medical assistant, OR military ...

Medical Assistant

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Graduate of an accredited medical assistant program with completion of an externship highly preferred, OR at least one year of direct patient care experience as a medical assistant, OR military ...

Medical Assistant

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Graduate of an accredited medical assistant program with completion of an externship highly preferred, OR at least one year of direct patient care experience as a medical assistant, OR military ...

Medical Assistant

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Graduate of an accredited medical assistant program with completion of an externship highly preferred, OR at least one year of direct patient care experience as a medical assistant, OR military ...

Medical Assistant

Urbandale, IA

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Graduate of an accredited medical assistant program with completion of an externship highly preferred, OR at least one year of direct patient care experience as a medical assistant, OR military ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Medical Assistant Externship information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$18

$25

How much do medical assistant externship jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for medical assistant externship in Iowa is $18.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $20.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a medical assistant externship?

A Medical Assistant Externship is a supervised, hands-on training experience that allows students to apply their classroom learning in a real healthcare setting. During the externship, students work alongside experienced medical professionals, performing tasks such as taking vital signs, assisting with patient exams, and handling administrative duties. This experience helps students gain practical skills, build confidence, and prepare for entry-level positions as Medical Assistants. Externships are typically unpaid and are a required component of most medical assistant training programs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a medical assistant extern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Medical Assistant Extern, you need foundational knowledge of clinical procedures, basic patient care, and administrative tasks, typically gained through a medical assisting program. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems, medical terminology, and standard office equipment is frequently required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and professionalism help you excel in supporting patients and collaborating with healthcare teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring effective patient care and a smooth workflow during your externship experience.

What are some common challenges faced during a medical assistant externship, and how can I overcome them?

During a Medical Assistant Externship, you may encounter challenges such as adapting to a fast-paced clinical environment, balancing hands-on tasks with learning new procedures, and building confidence when interacting with patients and healthcare professionals. To overcome these challenges, it's helpful to stay organized, communicate openly with your supervisor or mentor, and proactively seek feedback. Remember that externships are designed for learning, so don't hesitate to ask questions or request clarification when needed—this will help you gain the most from your experience and prepare you for a successful career.

What is the difference between Medical Assistant Externship vs Medical Assistant?

AspectMedical Assistant ExternshipMedical Assistant
CredentialsTypically requires completion of a training program; certification may be optionalRequires completion of a training program; certification (CMA or RMA) often preferred
Work EnvironmentHands-on training in clinical and administrative settings, often supervisedFull-time clinical and administrative duties in healthcare facilities
UsageEducational experience to gain practical skills before employmentProfessional role performing patient care and administrative tasks

The Medical Assistant Externship provides students with practical, supervised experience to prepare for a career as a Medical Assistant. In contrast, a Medical Assistant is a trained professional who performs clinical and administrative duties independently. The externship is a temporary training period, while the Medical Assistant role is a full-time position in healthcare settings.

How do I get a job as a medical assistant externship with no experience?

To secure a medical assistant externship with no experience, focus on completing a certified training program to gain foundational skills and knowledge. Highlight any relevant coursework, volunteer work, or certifications like CPR on your resume, and apply to programs that accept beginners or offer training for newcomers. Demonstrating a strong work ethic and willingness to learn can improve your chances of being selected for an externship opportunity.

How does a medical assistant externship work?

A medical assistant externship is a supervised, hands-on training program that allows students or recent graduates to gain practical experience in healthcare settings. Participants perform clinical and administrative tasks, develop skills with medical tools and software, and often work alongside licensed professionals to fulfill program requirements and prepare for certification. The externship typically lasts several weeks to months and may be part of a formal educational curriculum or certification process.

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

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

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Medical Assistant Externship jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Medical Assistant Externship job openings:

Infographic showing various Medical Assistant Externship job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, and 16% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,857 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Lead-Medical Assistant - Hematology Oncology - 40 Hours - Days

Henry Ford Health System

Clinton, IA • On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Henry Ford Health rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 575 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

421st of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Medical Assistant – Oncology

Medical Assistant – Oncology $2,500.00 Sign-on Bonus Full-Time Benefit Eligible Shift : Full-time - 40 Hours - Day Shift

Department Information:

Founded in 1915, the Henry Ford Medical Group (HFMG) has established itself as one of the premier group practices in the nation. The 2,600+-member group of physicians, advanced practice providers and researchers fosters innovation and advancement in patient care, education and research while encouraging improvements in technology and patient care processes. Throughout its history, the HFMG has attracted physicians and researchers who are driven to discover and deliver new and better solutions to the most complex health challenges. They have global improvements to care in areas ranging from neuroscience and cancer to transplant and heart disease.

To provide assistance in the health care clinic by preparing patients for examination and performing various clerical duties related to clinic activities. Under supervision of the Office Supervisor/Manager, is responsible for the support functions in the office as relates to medical assistants. May function as receptionist, medical assistant, or lab assistant when necessary or assigned and may or may not be the primary responsibility.

Principal Duties And Responsibilities:

  • Assist with related management duties as assigned by the office supervisor/manger. Assist the office supervisor/manger in the daily operations relating to patient, clinical or physician needs.
  • Promote and enhance positive guest and employee relations.
  • Make and maintain employee schedule for medical assistants.
  • Help maintain smooth clinic flow.
  • Work to improve clinic processes, assists in the development of clinic policies and procedures.
  • Covers for supervisors/manager during absences.
  • Assist in training and orientations of new staff.
  • May perform audits of paperwork and assess employee technical knowledge as part of this process.
  • Uses and is knowledgeable of Universal Precautions
  • Act as a clinical resource to supervisor/manager and other staff.
  • Performs normal duties and responsibilities of an outpatient clinic medical assistant:
    • Prepare patients for physician's examination by taking routine vital signs (e.g., temperature, respiration, and blood pressure)
    • Brief patient history using standard questionnaire.
    • Prepare individual patient chart and ensure all required documents are included as well as recent test results)
    • Under the direct supervisor of the clinic physicians, assist with the application and removal of cast and suture removal.
    • Provides patient with education and instructive material as directed by physician.
    • Performs clerical/registration functions including chart preparation and documentation
    • Receives and documents patient phone calls, and refers to clinic physician as appropriate.
    • Schedule patient appointments, arranges referrals and follow-up care as directed.
    • File patient charts as required.
    • Prepare billing forms with appropriate diagnostic code to submit to thirdparty payers, collects and posts payments for services.
    • Perform other related duties as required.

Education Required:

  • High school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent.

Experience Required:

  • Basic computer knowledge and keyboarding skills preferred.
  • Ability to perform a wide variety of clinical skills as related to ambulatory patient care preferred.
  • Ability to problem-solve preferred.
  • Possess effective interpersonal and communication skills preferred.
  • EPIC (Electronic Medical Record) experience preferred.

Certifications/Licensures Required:

  • Current BLS-C upon hire or successful completion by end of orientation

Additional Requirements:

  • Graduate of a Medical Assistant program with completion of a formal clinical externship (160 hour minimum). OR
  • Graduate from a Medical Assistant program without completion of a clinical externship but with a minimum one-year experience in clinical medical assisting within the past five (5) years. OR
  • Current Professionally Recognized Medical Assistant Certification with a minimum of one year of experience in clinical medical assisting. OR
  • Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). OR
  • Licensed Paramedic/Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) with at least one year clinical experience in clinical medical setting within the past five (5) years. OR
  • Military trained medical personnel with at least one-year clinical experience in clinical medical setting within the past five (5) years.

*Must Successfully complete all components of Ambulatory orientation as defined by Henry Ford Health.


What Henry Ford Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Henry Ford Health logo

About Henry Ford Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Henry Ford Health provides a full continuum of services from Primary and Preventative care, to Complex and Cpecialty care, Health Insurance, a full suite of home health offerings, Virtual care, Pharmacy, Eye care and other Healthcare retail. It is one of the Nation’s leading Academic Medical Centers, recognized for Clinical excellence in Cancer care, Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery, Neurology and Neurosurgery, Orthopedics and Sports medicine, and Multi organ transplants. Consistently ranked among the top five NIH funded institutions in Michigan, Henry Ford Health engages in more than 2,000 research projects annually. Equally committed to educating the next generation of Health Professionals, Henry Ford Health trains more than 4,000 Medical students, Residents and fellows every year across 50+ accredited programs. With more than 33,000 valued team members, Henry Ford Health is also among Michigan’s largest and most Diverse employers, including nearly 6,000 physicians and researchers from the Henry Ford Medical Group, Henry Ford Physician Network and Jackson Health Network.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Detroit, MI, US

Year founded

1915