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Memory Care Program Director Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

Serve meals to Health care Center residents. * Set up and clean dining rooms to prepare for meals ... Scholarships and Educational Assistance Programs, because we value the development of our team ...

Serve meals to Health care Center residents. * Set up and clean dining rooms to prepare for meals ... Scholarships and Educational Assistance Programs, because we value the development of our team ...

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Memory Care Program Director information

See Ames, IA salary details

$34.2K

$67.5K

$101.7K

How much do memory care program director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for memory care program director in Ames, IA is $67,515.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,900.00 and $78,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a memory care program director?

Memory Care Program Directors are professionals responsible for overseeing specialized care programs for individuals with Alzheimer's disease, dementia, or other memory-related conditions. They manage daily operations, supervise staff, and ensure that residents receive high-quality, person-centered care. Their duties also include coordinating activities, developing care plans, providing staff training, and working closely with families to support residents’ well-being. The director plays a crucial role in maintaining regulatory compliance and fostering a safe, engaging environment tailored to residents’ cognitive needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a memory care program director?

To thrive as a Memory Care Program Director, you need expertise in dementia care, program development, and a background in healthcare or gerontology, often supported by a relevant degree and experience in senior living. Familiarity with electronic health records, care planning software, and dementia-specific certifications like CDP (Certified Dementia Practitioner) are typically required. Outstanding leadership, compassionate communication, and problem-solving skills set top candidates apart in this role. These competencies ensure the delivery of high-quality, person-centered care and effective team management in a specialized memory care environment.

What are some unique challenges memory care program directors face when managing staff and residents?

Memory Care Program Directors often encounter challenges such as balancing the emotional needs of residents with dementia and supporting staff facing burnout from demanding care situations. They must foster a positive, patient-centered environment while ensuring staff receive regular training in dementia care best practices. Additionally, Directors need to coordinate with healthcare professionals, families, and team members to develop individualized care plans that adapt to residents’ changing needs.

What is the difference between Memory Care Program Director vs Memory Care Coordinator?

AspectMemory Care Program DirectorMemory Care Coordinator
CredentialsRelevant certifications (e.g., Alzheimer's certification), experience in memory careOften similar certifications, focus on assisting and coordinating care
Work EnvironmentOversees entire memory care programs, manages staff, develops policiesSupports daily activities, assists residents, coordinates with staff
Employer & IndustrySenior living communities, assisted living facilitiesMemory care units within assisted living or nursing homes
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding leadership roles, program managementFocus on daily resident care and support

The Memory Care Program Director typically oversees the entire memory care program, managing staff and developing policies, while the Memory Care Coordinator focuses on supporting residents' daily needs and assisting staff. Both roles require relevant certifications and are found in similar senior living environments, but they differ in scope and responsibilities.

What cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Memory Care Program Director jobs?

Cities near Ames, IA with the most Memory Care Program Director job openings:

Memory Care Support Partner - PRN

Rock Creek Senior Living

Ankeny, IA • On-site

$18 - $24.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Memory Care Support Partner

Position Type: PRN

Location: Ankeny, IA

Memory Care Support Partner pay range: $18 - $24.25 per hour

Shift Schedule—Varies/As Needed

Come join our team at Rock Creek located at 3602 NW 5th Street, Ankeny, IA 50023!

We Are Looking For Someone (Like You)
  • To be an Advocate of Empathy: Be responsible for understanding the importance of empathy. It will be your job to create human connection with residents during their most vulnerable moments.
  • To be a Patient Observer. Discover residents' interests, abilities, and what makes each resident who they are. Collaborate to create appropriate engagement plans and implement strategies with patience to ensure success.
  • To be a Master of the Mise en Scène. The French expression used to describe the art of creating a story through the physical environment,'mise en scène' means being responsible for setting the stage for a successful day. From preparing your dining room for breakfast to setting up the library for an event, to preparing the resident's room for their nighttime routine, you are the guide through the resident's experience.
  • To be a Life Partner. Partnering with residents to achieve all facets of daily life from the moment they wake to the moment they go to sleep.
  • To be excellent at documenting resident care and changes in condition
  • To assist with orientation of team members assigned to memory care neighborhoods.
What Are We Looking For?
  • You must be at least eighteen (18) years of age.
  • You will have a high school diploma, or equivalent.
  • You can read, write, understand, and communicate in English with our Residents!
  • You will have a positive and energetic attitude who will LOVE our Residents!
  • You will possess computer skills to be able to print documents and enter information about our Residents.
  • You must be active as this role requires standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and stooping all day.
  • You must have the ability to frequently lift and/or move items up to 50 pounds.
  • You must be able to assist residents with sitting, standing, and walking, as well as assisting persons after a fall.
  • You must be criminally cleared.
Employment Benefits (We Value Our Benefits)
  • Company Match 401(k) with 100% match up to the first 3% and fully vested upon enrollment.
  • Medical, Dental, Vision insurance (1st of the month following 60 days of employment-Full Time)
  • Disability insurance (Full Time)
  • Employee assistance program
  • Weekly Employee Recognition Program
  • Life insurance (Full Time)
  • Paid time off (Full Time employees accrue up to 115 hours each year and Part Time accrue up to 30 hours each year)
  • Tuition Reimbursement (after 90 days for FT AND PT employees)
  • Employee Referral Program (FT, PT, and PRN)
  • Complimentary meal each shift (FT, PT, and PRN)
  • Daily Pay Option
  • Direct Deposit
  • Did we mention that we PROMOTE FROM WITHIN?

Arrow Senior Living serves and employs individuals of all faiths, regardless of race, color, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, or handicap, except as limited by state and federal law.