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Professional Friend Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Direct Support Professional (Onsite, Full-time) *Must have had a valid driver's license for 1 full ... Build strong, trusting relationships as a mentor, advocate, and friend. * Take initiative every day ...

Direct Support Professional (Onsite, Full-time) *Must have had a valid driver's license for 1 full ... Build strong, trusting relationships as a mentor, advocate, and friend. * Take initiative every day ...

Direct Support Professional

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Direct Support Professional (Onsite, Full-time) *Must have had a valid drivers license for 1 full ... Build strong, trusting relationships as a mentor, advocate, and friend. * Take initiative every day ...

Direct Support Professional

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Direct Support Professional (Onsite, Full-time) *Must have had a valid driver's license for 1 full ... Build strong, trusting relationships as a mentor, advocate, and friend. * Take initiative every day ...

Direct Support Professional (Onsite, Full-time) *Must have had a valid driver's license for 1 full ... Build strong, trusting relationships as a mentor, advocate, and friend. * Take initiative every day ...

Direct Support Professional

Hiawatha, IA · On-site

$18 - $19.50/hr

Direct Support Professional (Onsite, Full-time) *Must have had a valid driver's license for 1 full ... Build strong, trusting relationships as a mentor, advocate, and friend. * Take initiative every day ...

Direct Support Professional

Marion, IA · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Direct Support Professional (Onsite, Full-time) *Must have had a valid drivers license for 1 full ... Build strong, trusting relationships as a mentor, advocate, and friend. * Take initiative every day ...

Direct Support Professional (Onsite, Full-time) *Must have had a valid driver's license for 1 full ... Build strong, trusting relationships as a mentor, advocate, and friend. * Take initiative every day ...

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Professional Friend information

How do I become a paid professional friend?

To become a paid professional friend, you typically need strong communication and interpersonal skills, and may need to create a profile on platforms that connect clients with companions. Building a reputation through positive reviews and maintaining professionalism are important, and some roles may require background checks or certifications depending on the platform. Flexibility and reliability are key to succeeding in this role.

What does a professional friend do?

A typical day for a Professional Friend involves spending quality time with clients through engaging conversations, shared activities, or accompanying them to appointments or events based on their preferences and needs. You may work independently or coordinate with a small team, often following an individualized plan designed to enhance the client’s social well-being. Flexibility is key, as schedules can vary and activities may range from casual chats to participating in hobbies or attending social outings. The environment is supportive and client-focused, with clear professional boundaries maintained at all times. This role provides the opportunity to make a positive and lasting impact on clients’ quality of life while enjoying diverse and meaningful personal interactions.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a professional friend?

To thrive as a Professional Friend, you need excellent interpersonal skills, active listening abilities, and a genuine interest in supporting others, usually with experience in social services, peer support, or companionship roles. Familiarity with scheduling software or client management systems may be helpful, especially for managing appointments and communications. Outstanding empathy, discretion, and the ability to build trust are essential soft skills that set top candidates apart. These qualities ensure meaningful, supportive interactions that foster client well-being and satisfaction in this personalized service-oriented role.

What is a professional friend?

A Professional Friend is someone who offers companionship and social interaction to clients in a non-romantic, platonic manner. This can include activities like having conversations, going out for meals, attending events, or simply providing emotional support. The goal is to help clients feel less lonely and more socially connected. It is typically a paid service, with clear boundaries to ensure professionalism and mutual respect.

What are the most commonly searched types of Friend jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Friend jobs in Iowa are:
What job categories do people searching Professional Friend jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Professional Friend jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Professional Friend jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Professional Friend job openings:
Infographic showing various Professional Friend job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, and 24% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Respite Support Professional- Family Friend (PRN - Flexible Hours)

ChildServe

Johnston, IA

$14.50 - $17/hr

Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


ChildServe rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

This opening is for a family friend of a child receiving services from ChildServe. If you do not know a specific child, but want to be a Respite caregiver, please apply to the general Respite Service Assistant opening. 

As a Respite Service Assistant - Family Friend, you will provide personal care and supervision for a child with special health care needs in individual settings. Services are provided in home and community settings. 

 

Schedule Flexible scheduling with most shifts occurring after 4pm Monday through Friday, or on weekends.

 

How You’ll Make an Impact

  • Have fun with kids while their caregivers get a break
  • Provide 1:1 care in the child’s home or in the community
  • Receive ongoing training and supervision
  • Great resume builder for those interested in social work, education, therapy, psychology, and nursing

What You’ll Need:

  • Must be at least 16 years old to apply.
  • Must be able to provide your own transportation.
  • Ability to electronically document services provided.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in reading, writing, and speaking the English language.
  • Ability to lift up-to 35 lbs. be mobile within the assigned work area, and frequently bend, lift, reach, and stand.

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. 

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • 403(b) retirement plan with company match
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)

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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