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Resident Activity Director Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Activity Director

Dubuque, IA

$18 - $24.50/hr

Your work will ensure our residents receive the high standard of care they have grown to expect at Harmony Dubuque by implementing and directing activity programs that meet the physical, emotional ...

Activity Director

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Your work will ensure our residents receive the high standard of care they have grown to expect at Harmony House Care Center by implementing and directing activity programs that meet the physical ...

Activity Director

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Your work will ensure our residents receive the high standard of care they have grown to expect at Harmony House Care Center by implementing and directing activity programs that meet the physical ...

Activity Director

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Your work will ensure our residents receive the high standard of care they have grown to expect at Harmony Dubuque by implementing and directing activity programs that meet the physical, emotional ...

Activity Director

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Your work will ensure our residents receive the high standard of care they have grown to expect at Harmony House Care Center by implementing and directing activity programs that meet the physical ...

Activities Assistant

Oskaloosa, IA · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

Maintain the resources needed for each resident's activity needs. * Assist the activity director with required record keeping. * Interact and communicate with residents, families, as well as the ...

Activities Assistant

Knoxville, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $16/hr

Maintain the resources needed for each resident's activity needs. * Assist the activity director with required record keeping. * Interact and communicate with residents, families, as well as the ...

Activities Assistant

Corydon, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Maintain the resources needed for each resident's activity needs. * Assist the activity director with required record keeping. * Interact and communicate with residents, families, as well as the ...

Activities Assistant

Bettendorf, IA

$13.50 - $16.25/hr

Visits with residents on a one-to-one basis as directed. * Evaluates and reassesses activity interventions based on interdisciplinary plan of care and makes revisions as appropriate. * Ensure ...

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Resident Activity Director information

What is a resident activity director?

Resident Activity Directors are professionals responsible for planning, organizing, and leading recreational and social activities for residents in settings such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and retirement communities. Their goal is to enhance the quality of life for residents by providing engaging programs that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. They often coordinate events, outings, games, and creative projects while also considering the individual interests and needs of each resident. In addition, they may work with other staff to ensure activities are safe and accessible to everyone.

How does a resident activity director collaborate with other staff to enhance residents' experiences?

A Resident Activity Director works closely with nursing staff, dietary teams, and facility management to ensure that activities align with residents' needs and preferences. Regular communication with caregivers helps tailor programs for physical, cognitive, and emotional support. The director also coordinates with volunteers and community partners to bring in diverse activities, enhancing the overall quality of life for residents. This collaborative approach ensures a well-rounded, engaging environment for everyone in the facility.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a resident activity director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Resident Activity Director, you need a background in recreation, social work, or gerontology, often supported by a degree and certification such as Activity Director Certified (ADC). Familiarity with activity scheduling software, compliance regulations, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong organizational abilities, creativity, and interpersonal communication help build engaging programs and foster a sense of community among residents. These skills ensure residents experience meaningful activities that enhance well-being and satisfaction within care facilities.

What is the difference between Resident Activity Director vs Recreation Therapist?

AspectResident Activity DirectorRecreation Therapist
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; some roles prefer a certification in activity planning or recreationRequires a bachelor's degree in recreation therapy, therapeutic recreation, or a related field; certification may be preferred
Work EnvironmentAssists seniors in nursing homes or assisted living facilities with engaging activitiesProvides therapeutic recreation services in healthcare settings, including hospitals and rehab centers
Employer & IndustryLong-term care facilities, senior living communitiesHealthcare facilities, hospitals, rehabilitation centers

The main difference is that Resident Activity Directors focus on organizing recreational activities for seniors, often with less formal healthcare training, while Recreation Therapists provide therapeutic interventions to improve patients' physical and mental health, requiring specialized degrees and certifications.

What are popular job titles related to Resident Activity Director jobs in Iowa?

For Resident Activity Director jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Resident Activity Director jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Resident Activity Director jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Resident Activity Director jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Resident Activity Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Resident Activity Director job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Activity Director

Harmony Dubuque

Dubuque, IA

$18 - $24.50/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Are you looking for a rewarding career in Skilled Nursing? We are currently searching for an Activity Director to join our friendly, caring and supportive team!

Harmony Dubuque is rapidly growing and our team is looking to invest in an Activity Director by providing opportunities to further your career and with the tools and encouragement you need to succeed. We offer great benefits including:

  • Competitive wages.
  • Bonus opportunities.
  • Shift differentials.
  • Tuition reimbursement.
  • Internal growth opportunities.
  • Comprehensive benefits package.
  • 401K with employer match.
  • Employee concierge program.
  • And more!

As an Activity Director you are responsible for our residents’ emotional and social wellbeing. Your work will ensure our residents receive the high standard of care they have grown to expect at Harmony Dubuque by implementing and directing activity programs that meet the physical, emotional, and psychosocial needs of our residents, overseeing all aspects of the Activity Department, participating in resident care conferences and developing new activity programs to keeping up with trends and industry standards. Our residents will depend on your knowledge, skills, and attention to detail to ensure they are comfortable and safe.

To be eligible for consideration applicants should have:

As a minimum, a high school diploma or equivalent. Prior Activity Aide and/or Activity Director experience in a Skilled Nursing Facility setting, one (1) year of experience in a director or managerial role and NCCAP Certification is preferable but we are willing to invest in the right candidate!

Harmony Dubuque is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, expression or orientation, genetic information, national origin, age, disability, or status as a disabled or Vietnam-era veteran. When completing this application, you may exclude information that would disclose or reference this information, or any information relating to any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.

Harmony Dubuque never requests or sends money, payment transfers, direct deposit, or Social Security Number (SSN) information as part of their recruitment process.