1

Recovery Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Support a safe, structured, and welcoming residential environment. * Assist with transportation ... Have you navigated recovery from addiction, mental health challenges, trauma, or housing ...

Answers phone and assist with housekeeping duties as necessary; * Implements motivational interviewing and active listening techniques in supporting clients recovering from drug/alcohol dependence;

Behavioral Health Tech

Pleasant Hill, IA ยท On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Facilitate or co-facilitate psychoeducational, recovery, or skills-based groups under supervision. * Assist clients experiencing emotional, social, or health-related crises and escalate appropriately.

Behavioral Health Tech

Iowa City, IA ยท On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Facilitate or co-facilitate psychoeducational, recovery, or skills-based groups under supervision. * Assist clients experiencing emotional, social, or health-related crises and escalate appropriately.

Behavioral Health Tech

Pleasant Hill, IA ยท On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Facilitate or co-facilitate psychoeducational, recovery, or skills-based groups under supervision. * Assist clients experiencing emotional, social, or health-related crises and escalate appropriately.

Behavioral Health Technician

Cedar Falls, IA ยท On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... * Assist patients with daily routines, schedules, activities, meals, and program expectations. * Support patient participation in treatment programming, recovery activities, and community meetings.

Behavioral Health Tech

Iowa City, IA ยท On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Facilitate or co-facilitate psychoeducational, recovery, or skills-based groups under supervision. * Assist clients experiencing emotional, social, or health-related crises and escalate appropriately.

Behavioral Health Tech

Pleasant Hill, IA ยท On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Facilitate or co-facilitate psychoeducational, recovery, or skills-based groups under supervision. * Assist clients experiencing emotional, social, or health-related crises and escalate appropriately.

Behavioral Health Tech

Pleasant Hill, IA

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Facilitate or co-facilitate psychoeducational, recovery, or skills-based groups under supervision. * Assist clients experiencing emotional, social, or health-related crises and escalate appropriately.

Behavioral Health Tech

Iowa City, IA ยท On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Facilitate or co-facilitate psychoeducational, recovery, or skills-based groups under supervision. * Assist clients experiencing emotional, social, or health-related crises and escalate appropriately.

Showing results 21-40

Recovery Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$10

$13

$17

How much do recovery assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for recovery assistant in Iowa is $13.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.81 and $15.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Recovery Assistant, you typically need a solid understanding of mental health or substance abuse recovery concepts, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant certification such as CPR/First Aid. Familiarity with documentation systems, client progress tracking tools, and crisis intervention techniques is commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, patience, and the ability to motivate clients are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure effective support for clients' recovery journeys and contribute to a safe, positive care environment.

How does a recovery assistant typically collaborate with clinical staff and other team members in a healthcare setting?

As a Recovery Assistant, collaboration with clinical staff such as nurses, therapists, and case managers is an essential part of the role. Recovery Assistants often provide frontline support to patients, relay important observations to the clinical team, and help implement care or recovery plans. Effective communication and the ability to work as part of a multidisciplinary team are crucial for ensuring coordinated, patient-centered care. Regular team meetings, documentation, and informal check-ins are common ways Recovery Assistants contribute to smooth team operations and positive patient outcomes.

What is a recovery assistant?

Recovery Assistants are professionals who support individuals recovering from mental health issues, addiction, or physical injuries. They work to help clients regain independence, develop coping strategies, and access community resources. Recovery Assistants often collaborate with healthcare professionals, provide emotional support, and assist with daily living activities. Their goal is to empower individuals in their recovery journey and promote overall well-being.

What is the difference between Recovery Assistant vs Peer Support Specialist?

AspectRecovery AssistantPeer Support Specialist
CredentialsMay require certification or training in mental health or addiction supportOften requires peer support certification or lived experience
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, recovery centersCommunity programs, mental health agencies, recovery centers
Employer & IndustryHealthcare, addiction treatment facilitiesBehavioral health, community outreach programs
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in recovery supportPeer-led recovery support roles

Recovery Assistants and Peer Support Specialists both work in mental health and addiction recovery settings. Recovery Assistants typically focus on supporting clients through structured programs, often requiring formal training. Peer Support Specialists leverage lived experience to provide empathetic support and advocacy. While their roles overlap, Recovery Assistants are more clinical, whereas Peer Support Specialists emphasize peer-led recovery. Both roles are vital in supporting individuals on their recovery journey.

What are the most commonly searched types of Recovery jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Recovery jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Recovery Assistant jobs in Iowa? For Recovery Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Recovery Assistant jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Recovery Assistant jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Recovery Assistant jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Recovery Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Recovery Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $28,259 per year, or $13.6 per hour.

Residential Recovery Intern (56166)

Iowa Youth Services

Cambridge, IA โ€ข On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Internship

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Come join our Ember team as a Residential Recovery Intern!
At YSS our Residential Recovery Interns have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience supporting youth as they navigate their recovery journey. Working alongside a dedicated team of professionals, you'll learn what it takes to create a safe, structured, and supportive environment where young people can build confidence, develop healthy skills, and work toward lasting change.
This internship provides a unique opportunity to see residential recovery services in action while learning from experienced staff who are passionate about helping youth and families thrive. You'll gain valuable experience in youth engagement, recovery support, relationship-building, and the day-to-day operations of a residential treatment setting.
Learning Outcomes - By the end of this internship, you will:
  • Gain firsthand experience working in a residential addiction treatment environment.
  • Develop skills in youth engagement, communication, and professional relationship-building.
  • Learn about recovery support, trauma-informed care, and strengths-based approaches.
  • Practice responding to challenges with patience, empathy, and professionalism.
  • Understand the role of structure, consistency, and connection in helping youth succeed.
  • Explore career opportunities in behavioral health, social work, counseling, and related fields.

Job Duties - Responsibilities for this internship include:
  • Shadow residential recovery staff and learn about addiction treatment, recovery support, and daily program operations.
  • Build positive relationships with youth through encouragement, support, and role modeling.
  • Assist with resident supervision, daily routines, activities, and skill-building opportunities.
  • Participate in recovery-focused groups and learn strategies for coping skills, conflict resolution, and healthy decision-making.
  • Support a safe, structured, and welcoming residential environment.
  • Assist with transportation, meals, school support, and other program needs.
  • Complete documentation, administrative tasks, and other responsibilities that support program operations.
  • Participate in orientation, professional development, and required trainings, including Mandatory Reporter and CPR/First Aid.
  • Meet regularly with a supervisor for guidance, feedback, and reflection.

Who You Are
You're ready to turn what you've learned in the classroom into meaningful, hands-on experience. You're compassionate, dependable, and interested in behavioral health, counseling, psychology, social work, criminal justice, or a related field. You enjoy connecting with people from all walks of life, are open to feedback, and are eager to learn from experienced professionals while making a positive impact in your community.
Schedule / Time Commitment
  • Schedule is flexible to meet interns needs. It is the intern's responsibility to ensure the number of hours worked meets their academic requirements.
  • At least 4 hours must be completed each week, between the hours of 7:00 am - 10:30 pm

We want to create a world where youth are valued and empowered to stand strong. To do this, we ask our staff to embrace YSS core values - Commitment, Collaboration, Compassion, Innovation, Integrity, and a "Can Do" Spirit.
Required Qualifications - MUST HAVES:
  • Must be at least 19 years old.
  • Currently pursuing a bachelors degree.
  • Possesses general understanding of the issues facing at-risk youth and their families.
  • Must have access to reliable transportation

Preferred Qualifications - SHOULD HAVES:
  • All majors are accepted. The following majors are preferred: Criminal Justice, Social Work, Human Services and related fields.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA requirements and professional ethical standards.
  • Ability to remain calm, professional, and compassionate in challenging situations.
  • Possesses excellent observational, listening, verbal, and writing skills.
  • Reliable, steady, and able to follow through independently
  • Ability to work collaboratively and independently
  • Proficient with the majority of Microsoft Office applications and basic database use.
  • Curious and eager to learn.
  • Takes initiative, seeks out opportunities for learning, and effectively manages one's own time and work.

The IDEAL Candidate
  • Is rooted in purpose and driven by equity, inclusion, and positive social impact.
  • Brings humility, respect, and cultural awareness to every interaction.
  • Speaks a second language (especially one spoken in our communities).

We Celebrate Your Story...
Have you navigated recovery from addiction, mental health challenges, trauma, or housing instability? Your lived experience offers a unique, compassionate perspective that can inspire real change. By sharing your story and serving as a role model or mentor, you can make a meaningful impact in the lives of youth and families. Your journey matters. If you're ready to use it to uplift and empower others, we warmly encourage you to apply.
Who We Are...
We're YSS-one of Iowa's largest and longest-standing nonprofits dedicated to putting kids first. Our mission is simple but powerful: spark hope, create opportunity, and help young people thrive.
  • From life-changing programs to a new 50-acre recovery campus, we're expanding fast and thinking big. Learn more at yss.org.
  • We value the unique backgrounds, identities, and experiences each team member brings. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we're committed to building a respectful, inclusive, and supportive workplace where everyone can grow and succeed.
  • YSS is a nicotine-free workplace.

Stay Connected...
We communicate with applicants via email - straight from our Paycom system address: systemmessage@paycomonline.com. Please check your inbox regularly (and your spam/junk folder just in case). If the message does end up in spam/junk, make sure to add systemmessage@paycomonline.com to your list of safe senders. We may also send you texts if you give us that permission when you apply. Questions? Reach us anytime at yss@yss.org
Our Hiring Process - Here's What to Expect...
  • Apply - Submit your application at yss.org/ysscareers
  • Assessment - We review your skills and experience
  • Interview - Phone, video, or in-person conversation
  • References - We'll connect with 3+ professional references
  • Screening - Background check, driving record check, and license verification if required
  • Offer - If it's a match, you'll receive a formal offer through Paycom