Assistant Director Jobs in Iowa
Assistant Director jobs in Iowa concentrate in healthcare administration, higher education, and nonprofit management, with steady demand at both the mid-level program director and senior organizational leadership tiers. The largest markets are Des Moines, Iowa City, and Cedar Rapids, where employers like UnityPoint Health, the University of Iowa, and Mercy Medical Center sustain consistent openings. The most in-demand specialties across Iowa are clinical program administration, student affairs, and community services leadership. See the openings below and apply to the ones that match your experience.
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Department Summary:
Drake University is currently seeking a new team member to join our Facilities Planning and Management department. We are looking for a capable, service-minded individual who takes pride in their work and enjoys being part of a collaborative team.
This position offers the opportunity to work alongside an outstanding group of dedicated professionals who help keep our campus operating efficiently, safely, and beautifully every day. If you are motivated by service, teamwork, and making a visible impact on the campus community, we encourage you to apply and become part of the Drake family.
Job Summary:
The Assistant Director serves as a key member of the FPM leadership team. This position provides strong management and leadership to one or more of the following areas: HVAC, buildings, custodial, and/or grounds. Reporting to the Executive Director, Facilities, Planning & Management, this position serves as an operational leader and acts in the Executive Director’s absence when designated. This position is expected to report to campus during emergencies.
Minimum Qualifications:
Associate’s degree, bachelor’s degree preferred,
Five (5) years of increasingly responsible professional experience in facilities, operations, or related discipline
Three (3) years of direct supervisory or management experience, including responsibility for employee performance, work planning, coaching, and accountability.
Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively
Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Preferred Qualifications/Skills/Knowledge:
Strong knowledge of building systems, deferred maintenance prioritization processes, construction, and/or regulatory compliance.
Experience managing multiple priorities, responding to operational challenges, and delivering results in a customer service-oriented environment.
Proven ability to foster a collaborative, inclusive, collegial, and consensus building relationship at all levels of the university based on competence, trust, and respect.
Knowledge of design process for capital projects and understanding of contracts and insurance requirements.
Demonstrated experience as a strategic thinker with proven planning and organization skills to effectively manage multiple projects of varying size and complexity, and the ability to modify or adjust priorities.
Essential Functions:
30% Provide leadership and department management
Directly oversee and manage one or more FPM departments by providing clear direction, establishing priorities, and aligning team efforts with departmental and institutional goals. Cultivate a positive, inclusive work environment where employees are empowered, supported, and equipped to perform at their highest potential. Engages in recruitment, hiring and training of FPM staff. Maintains and schedules monthly staff safety training, professional development planning processes and conducts employee performance reviews. Fosters a culture of safety.
20% Manage departmental planning and continuous improvement efforts
Assist in the development and implementation of unit-level planning documents, including the FP&M continuous improvement plan and the facilities condition index. In close collaboration with all FPM managers, develop response plans to the administrative services survey (an internal customer service survey) and annual employee morale surveys. Develop and implement new ways to continually improve reporting, monitoring, and implementation of unit plans.
20% Lead communication efforts and build relationships
Serve as a liaison between FPM and campus constituents by fostering effective communication regarding work orders, maintenance activities, construction projects, facility-related issues, and operational concerns. Coordinate with faculty, staff, students, and departmental representatives to provide timely updates, address questions, manage expectations, and ensure customer concerns are appropriately resolved. Monitor work orders to ensure timely communication with constituents and support employees in their respective communications efforts. Serve on university committees and ad hoc task forces, as assigned.
10% Provide budget oversight and monitoring
Assist in the fiscal management of assigned FPM operations, including the development, administration, and monitoring of departmental operating and capital budgets. Analyze expenditures and revenue trends, prepare financial forecasts, reconcile accounts, and ensure resources are allocated effectively to support departmental priorities.
10% Manage safety and emergency management functions
Oversee and ensure campus buildings have annual safety building inspections and are in full compliance with building codes and regulatory agencies. Work collaboratively with other campus partners on emergency management planning and as needed, play a key role in the deployment of emergency plans. Partners with Environmental Health & Safety and other stakeholders to identify, assess, and mitigate operational and compliance risks.
5% Oversee project management and issue resolution
Provides management guidance and technical direction in the resolution of problems associated with maintenance, facilities and landscaping issues. Work with contractors to ensure the most appropriate course of action and to oversee the implementation of assigned repair or maintenance projects. Responds to emergencies and shutdowns, both during and outside regular shifts.
5% Performs other duties as assigned
Special Instructions to Applicants:
For consideration, you must apply online. Please include a resume and cover letter. ‌
If you have any questions about this job positing or the application process, please email kevin.moran@drake.edu
A review of applications will begin immediately. This position will remain open until filled.
All offers are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check.
Salary is competitive with peer schools and will be commensurate with qualifications and experience of the selected candidate.
At Drake, we are proud to offer our employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents a comprehensive benefits package, which includes a wide range of core benefits, perks, and discounts.
One of our very popular policies provides a tuition waiver for Drake employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents. Drake also participates in not one, but two tuition exchange programs available to dependent children.
For faculty positions, selection will depend on the receipt of recommendation confirming the candidate's scholarly achievements and teaching abilities and/or on the candidate's satisfactory passing of a teaching demonstration if selected for an on-campus interview. For staff positions, selection will depend upon careful review of each applicant’s references, education, and, if applicable, experience.
About Drake:
Drake University is recognized as a top private university in the Midwest. Drake is a midsize university in Des Moines, Iowa, with an increasingly diverse student body. We are deeply committed to equity and inclusion and creating a sense of belonging for all members of the campus community—faculty, staff, and students alike. More than 900 faculty and staff are part of the Bulldog pack, a close-knit group of colleagues enthusiastic about preparing students to be global citizens and leaders, challenging assumptions. Drake University is not only an outstanding institution of higher learning, it is also a wonderful place to work. We are enthusiastically committed to welcoming new ideas and people into the fold, and to retaining and rewarding stellar employees.
All positions at Drake provide opportunities to contribute to Drake University’s core mission of creating of creating an exceptional learning environment that prepares students of all backgrounds for meaningful lives and professional accomplishments.
STRONG COMMITMENT TO A DIVERSE AND INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY
At Drake University, we don’t just accept differences—we celebrate them, we support them, and we thrive on them for the benefit of our students, our employees, and our community. Drake University is proud to support an equal opportunity, diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace. Learn more about why Drake is an exceptional place to work: An Exceptional Working Environment | Drake University
Drake University is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. If you would benefit from an accommodation at any point in the recruitment process (including using our online application process), please contact Drake Human Resources (ph: 515.271.3133; email: jobs@drake.edu ) and let us know how we can assist you.
At Drake University, we highly value a diverse, inclusive workforce. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We stand firmly against discrimination including on the basis of race, color, national origin, creed, religion, age, disability, sex, pregnancy, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, or any characteristic protected by law.
Department Summary:
Drake University is currently seeking a new team member to join our Facilities Planning and Management department. We are looking for a capable, service-minded individual who takes pride in their work and enjoys being part of a collaborative team.
This position offers the opportunity to work alongside an outstanding group of dedicated professionals who help keep our campus operating efficiently, safely, and beautifully every day. If you are motivated by service, teamwork, and making a visible impact on the campus community, we encourage you to apply and become part of the Drake family.
Job Summary:
The Assistant Director serves as a key member of the FPM leadership team. This position provides strong management and leadership to one or more of the following areas: HVAC, buildings, custodial, and/or grounds. Reporting to the Executive Director, Facilities, Planning & Management, this position serves as an operational leader and acts in the Executive Director’s absence when designated. This position is expected to report to campus during emergencies.
Minimum Qualifications:
Associate’s degree, bachelor’s degree preferred,
Five (5) years of increasingly responsible professional experience in facilities, operations, or related discipline
Three (3) years of direct supervisory or management experience, including responsibility for employee performance, work planning, coaching, and accountability.
Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively
Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Preferred Qualifications/Skills/Knowledge:
Strong knowledge of building systems, deferred maintenance prioritization processes, construction, and/or regulatory compliance.
Experience managing multiple priorities, responding to operational challenges, and delivering results in a customer service-oriented environment.
Proven ability to foster a collaborative, inclusive, collegial, and consensus building relationship at all levels of the university based on competence, trust, and respect.
Knowledge of design process for capital projects and understanding of contracts and insurance requirements.
Demonstrated experience as a strategic thinker with proven planning and organization skills to effectively manage multiple projects of varying size and complexity, and the ability to modify or adjust priorities.
Essential Functions:
30% Provide leadership and department management
Directly oversee and manage one or more FPM departments by providing clear direction, establishing priorities, and aligning team efforts with departmental and institutional goals. Cultivate a positive, inclusive work environment where employees are empowered, supported, and equipped to perform at their highest potential. Engages in recruitment, hiring and training of FPM staff. Maintains and schedules monthly staff safety training, professional development planning processes and conducts employee performance reviews. Fosters a culture of safety.
20% Manage departmental planning and continuous improvement efforts
Assist in the development and implementation of unit-level planning documents, including the FP&M continuous improvement plan and the facilities condition index. In close collaboration with all FPM managers, develop response plans to the administrative services survey (an internal customer service survey) and annual employee morale surveys. Develop and implement new ways to continually improve reporting, monitoring, and implementation of unit plans.
20% Lead communication efforts and build relationships
Serve as a liaison between FPM and campus constituents by fostering effective communication regarding work orders, maintenance activities, construction projects, facility-related issues, and operational concerns. Coordinate with faculty, staff, students, and departmental representatives to provide timely updates, address questions, manage expectations, and ensure customer concerns are appropriately resolved. Monitor work orders to ensure timely communication with constituents and support employees in their respective communications efforts. Serve on university committees and ad hoc task forces, as assigned.
10% Provide budget oversight and monitoring
Assist in the fiscal management of assigned FPM operations, including the development, administration, and monitoring of departmental operating and capital budgets. Analyze expenditures and revenue trends, prepare financial forecasts, reconcile accounts, and ensure resources are allocated effectively to support departmental priorities.
10% Manage safety and emergency management functions
Oversee and ensure campus buildings have annual safety building inspections and are in full compliance with building codes and regulatory agencies. Work collaboratively with other campus partners on emergency management planning and as needed, play a key role in the deployment of emergency plans. Partners with Environmental Health & Safety and other stakeholders to identify, assess, and mitigate operational and compliance risks.
5% Oversee project management and issue resolution
Provides management guidance and technical direction in the resolution of problems associated with maintenance, facilities and landscaping issues. Work with contractors to ensure the most appropriate course of action and to oversee the implementation of assigned repair or maintenance projects. Responds to emergencies and shutdowns, both during and outside regular shifts.
5% Performs other duties as assigned
Special Instructions to Applicants:
For consideration, you must apply online. Please include a resume and cover letter. ‌
If you have any questions about this job positing or the application process, please email kevin.moran@drake.edu
A review of applications will begin immediately. This position will remain open until filled.
All offers are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check.
Salary is competitive with peer schools and will be commensurate with qualifications and experience of the selected candidate.
At Drake, we are proud to offer our employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents a comprehensive benefits package, which includes a wide range of core benefits, perks, and discounts.
One of our very popular policies provides a tuition waiver for Drake employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents. Drake also participates in not one, but two tuition exchange programs available to dependent children.
For faculty positions, selection will depend on the receipt of recommendation confirming the candidate's scholarly achievements and teaching abilities and/or on the candidate's satisfactory passing of a teaching demonstration if selected for an on-campus interview. For staff positions, selection will depend upon careful review of each applicant’s references, education, and, if applicable, experience.
About Drake:
Drake University is recognized as a top private university in the Midwest. Drake is a midsize university in Des Moines, Iowa, with an increasingly diverse student body. We are deeply committed to equity and inclusion and creating a sense of belonging for all members of the campus community—faculty, staff, and students alike. More than 900 faculty and staff are part of the Bulldog pack, a close-knit group of colleagues enthusiastic about preparing students to be global citizens and leaders, challenging assumptions. Drake University is not only an outstanding institution of higher learning, it is also a wonderful place to work. We are enthusiastically committed to welcoming new ideas and people into the fold, and to retaining and rewarding stellar employees.
All positions at Drake provide opportunities to contribute to Drake University’s core mission of creating of creating an exceptional learning environment that prepares students of all backgrounds for meaningful lives and professional accomplishments.
STRONG COMMITMENT TO A DIVERSE AND INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY
At Drake University, we don’t just accept differences—we celebrate them, we support them, and we thrive on them for the benefit of our students, our employees, and our community. Drake University is proud to support an equal opportunity, diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace. Learn more about why Drake is an exceptional place to work: An Exceptional Working Environment | Drake University
Drake University is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. If you would benefit from an accommodation at any point in the recruitment process (including using our online application process), please contact Drake Human Resources (ph: 515.271.3133; email: jobs@drake.edu ) and let us know how we can assist you.
At Drake University, we highly value a diverse, inclusive workforce. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We stand firmly against discrimination including on the basis of race, color, national origin, creed, religion, age, disability, sex, pregnancy, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, or any characteristic protected by law.
See All 43 Assistant Director Jobs in Iowa
Find roles in Iowa that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Assistant Director JobsAssistant Director Jobs by City in Iowa
Where Iowa roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Assistant Director Job Market in Iowa
A snapshot from current Iowa openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Education
What Iowa Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in assistant director jobs across Iowa.
- Bachelor's degree required, master's degree strongly preferred in a relevant field
- Minimum five years of progressive leadership experience in the relevant Iowa sector
- Demonstrated experience managing staff, budgets, and cross-functional programs
- Proficiency with data reporting systems and compliance documentation used in Iowa agencies
- Strong communication skills for presenting to Iowa boards, funders, or academic committees
- Experience with Iowa regulatory requirements or accreditation standards for the specific industry
Assistant Director Jobs in Iowa: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a assistant director in Iowa?
Most assistant director roles in Iowa require a bachelor's degree in a field related to the organization's focus, with a master's degree preferred in healthcare administration, public administration, higher education, or a related discipline. Iowa does not issue a general assistant director license, but roles in healthcare or social services may require credentials recognized by the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing. Gaining several years of supervisory or program management experience within Iowa's nonprofit, education, or health sectors is the standard path to qualify.
Which companies hire assistant directors in Iowa?
Companies currently hiring assistant directors in Iowa include WesleyLife, Harmony, and MGM Healthcare, per current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Iowa's concentration of regional health systems, public universities, and large nonprofit organizations makes it a consistent market for assistant director talent across multiple industries.
Which Iowa cities have the most assistant director jobs?
Des Moines, Dubuque, and Iowa City account for the most assistant director openings in Iowa. Des Moines drives the largest share through its concentration of healthcare systems, state government agencies, and corporate headquarters, while Iowa City benefits from the University of Iowa and its affiliated medical center, and Cedar Rapids draws demand from its established nonprofit and manufacturing leadership sectors.
Are there remote assistant director jobs in Iowa?
Yes, but they're relatively limited. About 33% of assistant director openings tied to Iowa are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, reflecting that most roles involve direct oversight of staff, facilities, or programs. The sub-areas most likely to offer remote or hybrid arrangements are grant administration, policy and compliance, and higher education program coordination roles that rely primarily on meetings and documentation rather than on-site leadership.
How can I get hired as a assistant director in Iowa with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is moving into an assistant director role from a senior coordinator, program manager, or department supervisor position within the same Iowa organization. Large Iowa employers like UnityPoint Health, Kirkwood Community College, and Iowa state agencies regularly post internal advancement opportunities and run leadership development programs that prepare high-performing staff for director-track roles. Building a record of budget oversight, staff supervision, and compliance work in an Iowa nonprofit or public-sector setting, paired with a completed or in-progress master's degree, significantly strengthens a candidate's profile.
Where can I find and apply to assistant director jobs in Iowa?
You can find and apply to assistant director jobs in Iowa on Migrate Mate, which lists current Iowa openings across healthcare, education, government, and nonprofit sectors. Search the listings to find roles that match your experience level and preferred location, then apply directly to the ones that fit.
See All 43 Assistant Director Jobs in Iowa
Find roles in Iowa that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Assistant Director Jobs