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Substitute Secretary Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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How much do substitute secretary jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for substitute secretary in Iowa is $17.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $20.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a substitute secretary?

Substitute secretaries are administrative professionals who temporarily fill in for regular secretaries or administrative assistants when they are absent due to illness, vacation, or other reasons. They perform essential office duties such as answering phones, managing schedules, handling correspondence, and maintaining records. Substitute secretaries ensure that office operations continue smoothly in the absence of permanent staff. They may work in schools, businesses, government offices, or healthcare settings, adapting quickly to different environments and procedures.

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

To thrive as a Substitute Secretary, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in basic office administration, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with office software such as Microsoft Office Suite, email systems, and common office equipment is typically required. Excellent communication, adaptability, and reliability are standout soft skills for ensuring smooth operations during staff absences. These skills are vital for maintaining workflow continuity, supporting staff and visitors, and upholding the professionalism of the office environment.

What are some common challenges faced by substitute secretaries, and how can they be managed effectively?

Substitute secretaries often encounter challenges such as quickly adapting to new office environments, learning unfamiliar procedures, and managing tasks with limited background on ongoing projects. To manage these challenges effectively, it's helpful to arrive early, ask clarifying questions, and prioritize clear communication with permanent staff. Being organized, flexible, and proactive in seeking out necessary information can help substitutes succeed and make positive impressions in each assignment.

What is the difference between Substitute Secretary vs Administrative Assistant?

AspectSubstitute SecretaryAdministrative Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; basic office skillsHigh school diploma; often additional certifications
Work EnvironmentTemporary, often in schools or officesPermanent, in various office settings
Employer & Industry UsageSchools, small officesCorporations, government agencies, nonprofits
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Substitute Secretary and an Administrative Assistant lies in their employment status and work setting. Substitute Secretaries typically work temporarily in schools or offices, filling in as needed, while Administrative Assistants hold permanent positions supporting daily office operations. Both roles require similar basic skills, but Administrative Assistants often have additional certifications and broader responsibilities.

What qualifications do I need to be a substitute secretary?

To become a substitute secretary, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong organizational and communication skills, and proficiency with office software such as word processors and spreadsheets. Some positions may require prior clerical experience or a background check, and flexibility to work varied hours is often preferred.

What are popular job titles related to Substitute Secretary jobs in Iowa?

For Substitute Secretary jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Substitute Secretary jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Substitute Secretary jobs in Iowa are:

Substitute Secretary jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substitute Secretary job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,794 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

SUBSTITUTE SECRETARIAL

Davenport Community Schools

Davenport, IA • On-site

$13 - $17.50/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Davenport Community School District rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 639 rated elementary and secondary schools

Job description

SUBSTITUTE SECRETARIAL JobID: 12298

  • Position Type:

    Secretarial/Clerical/ Substitute

  • Date Posted:

    1/20/2026

  • Location:

    District Wide

The Davenport Community School District is an EEO/AA employer.

Duties & Responsibilities: Essential Functions of Position, Major Responsibilities, Summary of Key Duties, Special Assignments, Relationships)

Positions are generally on-call but may also include short or long term. Positions are located at the Davenport Schools' Elementary, Middle and High Schools, or the Administration Service Center.

  • Use of a PC to create projects using word processing, spreadsheets and database applications.

  • May perform general office functions such as switchboard, receptionist, data entry, etc.

  • Possess the ability to speak effectively and great customer service with students, parents, and faculty.

Physical Requirements of Position:(HBV ? Yes ? No)

(The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.)

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to -

  • Sit, stand, speak, hear, see, and walk to carry out routine duties.

  • Must be able to occasionally lift, move, or push items of 50 lbs. such as assisting children or moving/rearranging furniture.

  • Must be able to supervise students in all types of weather.

  • Meet multiple demands from several people and interact with the public and other staff.

  • Must be able to implement Crisis Prevention Intervention strategies, including appropriate physical restraint procedures and escorting.

Work Environment:

(The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.)

  • Noise level is quiet to loud.

  • Work may be indoors and/or outdoors.

  • Work may be in non-air-conditioned rooms.

  • Substance-free environment.

  • Fast-paced atmosphere with constant contact with students, staff, or the public.

  • Direct responsibility for the safety, well-being, and work output of student.

Special Qualification Desired: (Personal Qualities, Education, Skills Needed, Experience, Etc.)

  • High School Diploma or GED.

  • Documentation of extended learning beyond high school i.e. associate's degree, completion of relevant programs etc..

  • Two years of successful secretarial work experience.

What Davenport Community School District employees say

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