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Obesity Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Pacs

Dietitian

Washington, IA

... obesity Conduct nutrition screenings and risk assessments Stay updated with the latest research in nutrition and dietetics Maintain accurate patient records and documentation

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All JobsObesity JobsObesity Jobs in Iowa

Obesity information

See Iowa salary details

$18

$33

$47

How much do obesity jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for obesity in Iowa is $33.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.22 and $37.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an obesity specialist?

An obesity job typically involves working in healthcare, research, or public health to address issues related to obesity. Professionals in this field may include doctors, dietitians, nutritionists, fitness specialists, and researchers who focus on obesity prevention, treatment, and education. Their work can involve patient care, developing weight management programs, conducting research on obesity-related health risks, or shaping public policies to promote healthier lifestyles. Many roles require specialized training in nutrition, medicine, behavioral health, or exercise science. The goal is to support individuals in managing their weight and improving overall health.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an obesity specialist?

To thrive as an Obesity Specialist, you need a solid background in medicine, nutrition, and weight management strategies, typically supported by a medical degree and relevant board certification. Familiarity with electronic health records, body composition analysis tools, and specialized weight management software is important. Strong communication, motivational interviewing, and empathy are crucial soft skills for supporting patient behavior change and building trust. These skills are vital for developing personalized treatment plans, ensuring patient adherence, and improving long-term health outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in obesity management roles?

Professionals in obesity management roles often navigate challenges such as addressing the complex and multifactorial nature of obesity, which involves medical, psychological, and social factors. They may also face difficulties in fostering long-term patient engagement and behavior change, as well as staying current with evolving treatment guidelines and insurance coverage requirements. Additionally, working collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams—including dietitians, psychologists, and exercise specialists—is essential for delivering comprehensive care.

What is the difference between Obesity vs Nutritionist?

AspectObesityNutritionist
Required CredentialsMedical degree, specialized training in obesity managementDegree in nutrition, certification as a registered dietitian or nutritionist
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, weight management centersPrivate practice, healthcare facilities, wellness centers
Industry UsageHealthcare, obesity treatment programsDiet planning, health counseling, wellness programs

Obesity specialists focus on diagnosing and treating obesity, often working within healthcare settings. Nutritionists provide dietary advice and develop nutrition plans to promote health and manage weight. While both roles aim to improve health outcomes, obesity professionals typically handle medical aspects, whereas nutritionists focus on diet and lifestyle counseling.

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

The most popular types of Obesity jobs in Iowa are:

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

The top searched job categories for Obesity jobs in Iowa are:

Obesity jobs near you
Infographic showing various Obesity job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,155 per year, or $33.7 per hour.

Mercy Bariatric Surgery Clinic Physician Assistant

Mercy Cedar Rapids

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

$98K - $133K/yr

Other

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Physician Assistant (PA)

This position supports Mercy's philosophy of patient centered care by performing direct patient care including diagnostic and therapeutic services with physician supervision. Within the Physician Assistant (PA)/Physician relationship, PAs exercise autonomy in medical decision-making and services provided.

We are seeking a motivated Physician Assistant (PA) to support our growing program focused on obesity medicine and bariatric surgery. This role is primarily clinic-based, with opportunities for OR participation and cross-coverage as needed.

What Sets This Role Apart:
  • New Graduates Welcome – Strong onboarding and mentorship support
  • Clinic-First Model – Consistent outpatient clinic care with procedural exposure
  • Integrated Surgical Practice – Cross-coverage to OR as needed
  • Specialized Focus – Work within a growing comprehensive metabolic and bariatric surgery and obesity medicine program
  • Team-Based Care – Collaborate within a robust multidisciplinary team committed to outcomes and patient success
Why Join Us:
  • Supportive, team-oriented environment
  • Opportunity to build expertise in a high-demand specialty
  • Meaningful impact on long-term patient health outcomes
Job Duties:
  • Provide care responsibilities as directed by a supervising physician including obtaining medical history, performing physical examination, ordering medications and administering drugs
  • Assess, assist, diagnose and treat medical or surgical problems and record findings
  • Perform, order, or assist in and interpret the performance of laboratory tests and x-ray procedures
  • Perform therapeutic procedures such as injections, immunizations, the suturing and care of wounds, removal of foreign bodies, ear and eye irrigation and other clinical procedures
  • Perform office surgical procedures including skin biopsy, mole or wart removal, incision and drainage of abscesses
  • Instruct and counsel patients regarding physical and mental health on matters such as diets, disease, therapy, normal growth and development
  • Evaluate, treat and institute procedures essential to providing an appropriate response to emergency medical problems
  • Refer patients to appropriate specialty and subspecialty physicians as indicated by the patients' assessment
  • Direct other medical personnel and health professionals in the execution of patient care.
  • Maintain awareness of health facilities, agencies and resource in order to facilitate the appropriate referral of patients
  • Assist in the ordering of drugs, medications and supplies, record keeping and maintenance of equipment
  • Admit patients to hospital or health care facility as directed
  • Perform and screen results of special medical exams per area of specialty.
  • Follows Mercy's safety guidelines, carries out job-specific safety duties and responsibilities, and promptly reports any unsafe conditions, situations, incidents and injuries.
Department Specific Duties:

Mercy General Surgery or Mercy Bariatric Surgery Clinic:

  • Maintains current knowledge of General Surgery, Bariatric Surgery, and Obesity Medicine Practice
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required
Professional Experience:
  • 1-3 years' experience preferred
Education:
  • Education sufficient to meet licensure requirements
    • Licensure, Certification, Registration:
    • Active license to practice as a Physician Assistant in the state of Iowa required
    • Iowa Dependent Adult Abuse/Iowa Child Abuse Mandatory Reporter training required. Employee must submit certification of completed training to Human Resources prior to start or transfer date.

    Mercy is an independent, community-based organization supporting the Cedar Rapids area for over 120 years.

    Mercy is an equal-opportunity employer. We value diversity, equity, and inclusion and therefore evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, civil union status, parental status, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.

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