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Recreation Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Grinnell College

Outdoor Recreation Assistant

Grinnell, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

The Physical Education, Athletics, & Recreation Department is seeking an Outdoor Recreation Assistant to assist with the logistical planning, coordination, and operation of the Grinnell Outdoor ...

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City of Marion

PT Recreation Assistant

Marion, IA · On-site

$12/hr

Job Summary The Recreation Assistant primary duties include administration, coordination, instruction, and supervision of participants related to parks and recreation activities. Duties * Interact ...

City of Marion

PT Recreation Assistant

Marion, IA · On-site

$12/hr

Job Summary The Recreation Assistant primary duties include administration, coordination, instruction, and supervision of participants related to parks and recreation activities. Duties * Interact ...

City of Marion

PT Recreation Assistant Lead

Marion, IA · On-site

$13/hr

Job Summary The Recreation Assistant Lead supports the coordination, supervision, and implementation of a variety of recreational programs, events and activities. This position assists the Recreation ...

City of Marion

PT Recreation Assistant Lead

Marion, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

Job Summary The Recreation Assistant Lead supports the coordination, supervision, and implementation of a variety of recreational programs, events and activities. This position assists the Recreation ...

UnityPoint Health

Recreation Coordinator

Hiawatha, IA · On-site

Under the supervision of the Program Manager, works with the Recreation Assistants in providing recreational services and Activities of Daily Living (ADL) assistance to participants attending the ...

City of Ankeny Iowa

Recreation Staff

Ankeny, IA

$11.25 - $16.75/hr

... assist with programs as assigned Monitor attendance and ensure a safe environment for participants Promote recreation programs and facilitate participant growth and learning Entry Requirements and ...

Wartburg College

Community Recreation

Waverly, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Community Recreation Program Assistant Function of Position: Oversee recreational programming for youth and adults as an instructor or official. Principal Job Duties and Responsibilities: Youth ...

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All JobsRecreation JobsRecreation Assistant JobsRecreation Assistant Jobs in Iowa

Recreation Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do recreation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreation assistant in Iowa is $16.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $17.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Recreation Assistant, you need knowledge of recreational programming, physical fitness, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with scheduling software, activity planning tools, and CPR/First Aid certification is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, creativity, and the ability to motivate others help you engage diverse participants and foster a positive environment. These competencies ensure safe, enjoyable, and inclusive recreational experiences for all participants.

What skills do you need to be a recreation assistant?

A recreation assistant needs strong communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with the public and team members. Organizational abilities, knowledge of recreational activities, and basic first aid certification are also important for planning programs and ensuring safety. Physical stamina and flexibility are often required to assist with activities and events.

What does a recreation assistant do?

A Recreation Assistant helps plan, organize, and lead recreational activities for groups and individuals in community centers, parks, camps, or fitness facilities. Their duties often include setting up equipment, assisting with event coordination, supervising participants, and ensuring safety guidelines are followed. They may also help maintain facilities and provide customer service to participants. Recreation Assistants play a key role in creating enjoyable and engaging experiences for people of all ages.

How does a recreation assistant typically collaborate with other team members to ensure successful events and activities?

As a Recreation Assistant, collaboration is a key part of the role. You will often work closely with recreation coordinators, instructors, and facility staff to plan, set up, and supervise activities and events. Regular communication is essential to coordinate logistics, share updates, and address any issues that arise during programs. Being proactive, adaptable, and a team player helps ensure that events run smoothly and participants have a positive experience.

What is the difference between Recreation Assistant vs Recreation Coordinator?

AspectRecreation AssistantRecreation Coordinator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; CPR/First Aid certifications often requiredSame as Recreation Assistant; additional experience may be preferred
Work EnvironmentCommunity centers, parks, recreational facilitiesSimilar settings, often overseeing programs and staff
Employer & IndustryMunicipalities, community organizations, parks departmentsMunicipalities, nonprofit organizations, recreation departments
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles, responsibilities, and qualificationsLooking for roles with more responsibility and program oversight

The main difference between a Recreation Assistant and a Recreation Coordinator lies in their level of responsibility. Recreation Assistants typically support recreational programs and activities under supervision, while Recreation Coordinators oversee program planning, staff management, and larger projects. Both roles often require similar certifications and work in comparable environments, but the Coordinator position generally involves more leadership and organizational duties.

More about Recreation Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Recreation jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Recreation jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Recreation Assistant jobs in Iowa? For Recreation Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Recreation Assistant jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Recreation Assistant jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Recreation Assistant jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Recreation Assistant job openings:
Recreation Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recreation Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,718 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

PT Recreation Assistant

City of Marion, Iowa

Marion, IA

$12/hr

Part-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Please note that all communication will be done via email and text message.


Job Summary

The Recreation Assistant primary duties include administration, coordination, instruction, and supervision of participants related to parks and recreation activities.


Duties

  • Interact with participants and the public in a courteous, professional manner and respond to basic questions or concerns.
  • Instructors recruit and train assistant personnel with assistance from the Recreation/Aquatic Coordinator.
  • Promote recreational programs within the community.
  • Provide general supervision and promote safe participation in program activities.
  • Maintain a constant surveillance, keeping all participants within the designated activity area and in view at all times.
  • Incorporate information on activity origins, variations, scoring, concepts, and strategies into daily lessons.
  • Modify activities to meet specific characteristics of age, group, and ability level.
  • Never leave participants unattended. Arrive early and stay until the last participant has left the site.
  • Execute first aid or emergency procedures as necessary. Follow steps in first aid treatment to injured participants. Complete accident report immediately and submit to Recreation/Aquatic Coordinator.


Required Knowledge/Skills

  • Instructors must have the ability to supervise assistant staff and participants.
  • Ability to plan new drills and modify existing ones as necessary.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with fellow assistant personnel and public.
  • Prepare clear and concise written reports.
  • Observe necessary precautions to ensure safety of participants.
  • Teach fundamental techniques and components using instruction methods, which include discussion, demonstration, repetitive practice or drills and integration of component skills into overall activity goals.
  • Knowledge of first aid or emergency procedures.


Essential Functions/Physical Abilities

  • Ability to coordinate and participate in recreation activities.
  • Ability to work outdoors under adverse weather conditions.
  • Ability to repetitively bend and stoop to operate equipment in conjunction with recreation activities.
  • Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English to communicate effectively with fellow employees and the general public by telephone, written word, and in person.
  • Must not pose a threat to the health or safety of other individuals in the workplace or citizens encountered during work.


Qualifications

  • Experience in recreational activities in which instruction/supervision is to be given.


Working Conditions

  • Work is primarily outdoors in the elements.


Required Background Checks

  • Pre-employment Physical
  • Criminal Checks
  • Sex Offender Registry


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