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Program Assistant Jobs in Urbandale, IA (NOW HIRING)

ChildServe

Autism Day Program Assistant

Johnston, IA

$15.98/hr

Join ChildServe as an Autism Day Program Assistant, where you will contribute to the lives of children ages 2-6 by supporting their health, skill development and retention in our Autism Day Program.

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Program Assistant information

See Urbandale, IA salary details

$20.3K

$43.3K

$59.6K

How much do program assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for program assistant in Urbandale, IA is $43,272.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,500.00 and $45,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges a program assistant might face when supporting multiple projects simultaneously?

Program Assistants often juggle multiple responsibilities across various projects, which can make prioritization and time management challenging. Balancing competing deadlines, handling last-minute changes, and coordinating with diverse team members require strong organizational skills and adaptability. Successful Program Assistants proactively communicate with supervisors and colleagues, use digital tools to track tasks, and remain flexible to shifting priorities. Developing these habits helps ensure projects run smoothly and supports overall team effectiveness.

What does a program assistant do?

A program assistant provides administrative support for a program office, such as an academic department or a unit of a non-profit. As a program assistant, your job duties may include scheduling travel, coordinating logistical issues for executives or other team members, filing, and performing other clerical tasks as needed. To become a program assistant, you typically need at least a high school diploma or GED certificate and administrative work experience. Some employers may also require a college degree. Additional qualifications include strong multi-tasking, organizational, and communication skills, along with computer proficiency.

What does a program assistant do?

A Program Assistant provides administrative and organizational support to program managers and teams within an organization. Their responsibilities often include scheduling meetings, maintaining records, coordinating events, handling correspondence, and assisting with project logistics. Program Assistants play a vital role in ensuring that programs run smoothly by managing day-to-day tasks and supporting communication among team members. They may also help with data entry, preparing reports, and liaising with clients or participants. The specific duties can vary depending on the organization and the type of program they support.

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

To thrive as a Program Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in administrative tasks, typically supported by a high school diploma or associate degree. Familiarity with office software like Microsoft Office Suite, database management, and scheduling systems is commonly required. Excellent communication, multitasking, and problem-solving abilities help you effectively support program operations and interact with diverse stakeholders. These skills ensure smooth program administration, efficient workflow, and high-quality support for team goals.
More about Program Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Program jobs in Urbandale, IA? The most popular types of Program jobs in Urbandale, IA are:
What cities near Urbandale, IA are hiring for Program Assistant jobs? Cities near Urbandale, IA with the most Program Assistant job openings:
Program Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Assistant job openings in Urbandale, IA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,272 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Autism Day Program Assistant

ChildServe

Johnston, IA

$15.98/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

ChildServe rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

This exciting opportunity is located at our Johnston location!
Join ChildServe as an Autism Day Program Assistant, where you will contribute to the lives of children ages 2-6 by supporting their health, skill development and retention in our Autism Day Program. You will provide and assist with the care of children with varying functioning levels across the autism spectrum. Through direct collaboration with occupational, speech, and physical therapists, and a play-based environment, you will assist with developmental goals as designated by each child’s individualized care plan.  
 
Schedule and Compensation
 
Monday-Friday, 40 hours between hours of operation of 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM
 
The starting pay rate for this role is $15.98/hour.
 
How You’ll Make an Impact 
 
  • Support children in achieving greater independence and school readiness through individualized care, learning, and play in a 1:3 ratio.
  • Collaborate with behavioral health professionals, therapists, and other team members to follow care plans and meet therapy goals within scope of practice.
  • Maintain a safe, consistent, and engaging environment while assisting with daily needs such as feeding, diapering, and toilet training.
  • Promote communication and social-emotional development using tools like PECS, communication devices, and guided behavioral support.
  • Accurately document care, follow change-of-shift procedures, and communicate professionally with families, staff, and community partners.
 
What You’ll Need:
 
  • Two-year degree in human services or education preferred; experience working with children with special healthcare needs preferred.
  • Must complete and pass the National DCI fingerprint process, child/adult abuse and criminal background checks, and child abuse affidavit prior to hire and every two years thereafter.
  • Must be able to pass a physical examination at commencement of employment and as regulations require; lift up to 35 lbs, be mobile within clinic areas, and frequently bend, lift, reach, and stand.
  • Maintain a calm demeanor in an environment that can change quickly with elevated behaviors and different demands, and communicate effectively in reading, writing, and speaking the English language.
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. 
 
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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