1

Actuary Science Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Actuary

West Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$106K - $125K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Actuarial Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Data Analytics, or related field Experience: * Minimum 7 years of actuarial experience * At least 5 years of experience with life ...

Actuary

West Des Moines, IA

$106K - $125K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Actuarial Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Data Analytics, or related field Experience: * Minimum 7 years of actuarial experience * At least 5 years of experience with life ...

Chief Actuary

Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$113K - $133K/yr

Bachelor's degree or higher in Actuarial Science, Mathematics, Finance, or related field. * Certification: MAAA and FSA (or career ASA) designations. * Experience: At least 10 years in the actuarial ...

Chief Actuary

Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$113K - $133K/yr

Bachelor's degree or higher in Actuarial Science, Mathematics, Finance, or related field. * Certification: MAAA and FSA (or career ASA) designations. * Experience: At least 10 years in the actuarial ...

Chief Actuary

Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$180 - $280/hr

Bachelor's degree or higher in Actuarial Science, Mathematics, Finance, or related field. * Certification: MAAA and FSA (or career ASA) designations. * Experience: At least 10 years in the actuarial ...

Actuary (Validation & Special Projects)

Cedar Rapids, IA ยท Hybrid

$114K - $134K/yr

FSA or equivalent professional designation along with bachelor's degree in actuarial science, Mathematics, Statistics, Economics or related field and 7 years of relevant experience, In lieu of ...

New

Int Actuary Modeler

Cedar Rapids, IA ยท On-site

$88 - $95/hr

Leverage advanced knowledge of actuarial, financial, statistical, data science and/or balance sheet modeling analytics to develop, test and validate models for various functions within the company.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Actuary Science information

See Iowa salary details

$106.1K

$123.8K

$129.1K

How much do actuary science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for actuary science in Iowa is $123,834.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $109,400.00 and $128,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is actuarial science?

Actuarial science is the discipline that applies mathematical and statistical methods to assess risk in insurance, finance, and other industries. Actuaries use these skills to analyze uncertain future events, such as accidents, deaths, and natural disasters, and help organizations make informed decisions about policies and financial planning. The field combines knowledge from mathematics, statistics, economics, and finance, making it essential for managing risk and ensuring financial stability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an actuary, and why are they important?

To thrive as an actuary, you need strong mathematical, statistical, and analytical skills, typically backed by a bachelor's degree in actuarial science, mathematics, or a related field, and progress toward actuarial certifications such as SOA or CAS. Proficiency in actuarial software, Excel, programming languages like SQL or Python, and risk modeling tools is commonly required. Exceptional problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help actuaries interpret complex data and explain findings to stakeholders. These competencies are crucial for accurately assessing risk, informing business decisions, and ensuring financial stability for organizations.

What are some common challenges actuaries face when working on cross-functional teams?

Actuaries often collaborate with professionals from finance, IT, marketing, and underwriting to develop models and communicate risk assessments. A common challenge is translating complex statistical findings into actionable insights that non-technical stakeholders can understand. Additionally, balancing strict regulatory requirements with business objectives requires strong problem-solving and communication skills. Being adaptable and open to feedback is key to ensuring project success and effective teamwork.

What is the difference between Actuary Science vs Data Analyst?

AspectActuary ScienceData Analyst
Required CredentialsActuarial exams, certifications (e.g., ASA, FSA)Bachelor's degree, sometimes certifications (e.g., CAP, CDA)
Work EnvironmentInsurance, finance, consulting firmsVarious industries including marketing, finance, healthcare
Industry UsageRisk assessment, insurance pricing, pension planningData interpretation, reporting, business insights

Actuary Science and Data Analyst roles share skills in data analysis and statistical tools, but actuaries focus more on risk modeling and insurance-related calculations, often requiring professional certifications. Data analysts typically handle broader data interpretation across industries without the same certification requirements.

Are there jobs in actuarial science?

Actuarial science offers a variety of job opportunities in insurance, finance, and consulting firms. Actuaries analyze risk using mathematics, statistics, and financial theory, often requiring professional certifications such as the SOA or CAS. These roles typically require strong analytical skills and proficiency in spreadsheet and statistical software.

What jobs can you do with actuarial science?

Actuarial science prepares individuals for roles such as actuary, risk analyst, insurance underwriter, pension consultant, and data analyst. These jobs involve analyzing financial risks, using statistical tools and software, and often require professional certifications like the SOA or CAS exams.

What are popular job titles related to Actuary Science jobs in Iowa?

For Actuary Science jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Actuary Science jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Actuary Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Actuary Science job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,834 per year, or $59.5 per hour.

Actuary

EQUITRUST

West Des Moines, IA โ€ข On-site

$106K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Posting Title: Actuary
Location: West Des Moines, Iowa (Mostly On-Site)
Employment Type: Full-time
About Us:
EquiTrust Life Insurance Company is a national carrier of competitive, client-friendly annuity products sold through a variety of distribution channels, including more than 20,000 independent agents and independent marketing organizations (IMOs). Since 2003, we have provided exceptional customer service to our clients by operating with integrity and passion. Our efforts are supported by a dedicated workforce who execute their responsibilities through teamwork and an entrepreneurial spirit. EquiTrust sells products nationwide and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with operations in West Des Moines, Iowa.
How You'll Contribute:
As an Actuary, you will lead key actuarial modeling initiatives within Corporate Actuarial, overseeing actuarial professionals and driving the maintenance, enhancement, testing, and governance of actuarial models. In this role, you will provide technical leadership to the actuarial modeling team, oversee model development activities, support the integration of new products and regulatory requirements, and partner closely with stakeholders across the organization to deliver high-quality modeling solutions. We are seeking a collaborative actuarial leader who brings strong technical expertise, sound judgment, and a passion for continuous improvement.
What You'll Do:
  • Lead and develop a team of actuarial professionals through coaching, performance management, work prioritization, and professional development
  • Serve as a senior technical resource for the actuarial modeling team, providing guidance on model design, governance, and implementation practices
  • Lead key actuarial modeling initiatives and oversee the maintenance, enhancement, testing, and governance of corporate actuarial models
  • Oversee and support the integration of new products, regulatory requirements, and business initiatives into corporate actuarial models
  • Support robust model development, documentation, governance, and change management processes
  • Enhance testing processes, from unit testing through user acceptance testing, to ensure accurate and timely model updates
  • Validate actuarial models and analyze model results for reasonableness, accuracy, and consistency
  • Identify opportunities to automate processes, improve analytics, and strengthen controls using sound actuarial practices
  • Assess current modeling methodologies and provide effective challenge to assumptions, techniques, and processes
  • Build and maintain strong partnerships with Investments, Finance, Accounting, Risk, model user groups, and other stakeholders across the organization
  • Support internal and external audits, regulatory reviews, and other actuarial initiatives as needed
  • Foster a positive, inclusive team environment aligned with EquiTrust's core values

What You'll Bring:
Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in Actuarial Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Data Analytics, or related field

Experience:
  • Minimum 7 years of actuarial experience
  • At least 5 years of experience with life insurance and fixed indexed annuity products
  • Significant experience with actuarial modeling systems and model development practices
  • Supervisory or leadership experience preferred
  • FSA required

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Advanced actuarial and quantitative modeling expertise
  • Strong actuarial modeling experience required; MG-ALFA experience strongly preferred
  • Experience with model development, maintenance, testing, validation, and governance practices
  • Understanding of statutory and tax reserving, cash flow testing, and ALM principles
  • Programming or scripting experience (e.g., VBA, SQL, Python) preferred
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex concepts clearly to technical and non-technical audiences
  • Ability to build strong partnerships across departments and effectively collaborate with diverse stakeholders
  • Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities, projects, and deadlines in a dynamic environment
  • Commitment to ethical standards, accountability, and collaborative teamwork

Physical Requirements:
  • Primarily seated work with continuous use of hands for fine manipulation (computer work)
  • Frequent sitting; occasional standing, walking, bending, and reaching
  • Ability to lift up to 20 pounds occasionally
  • Ability to communicate effectively (talk/hear) and maintain sustained visual focus
  • Moderate stress levels consistent with leadership responsibilities

Where You'll Work:
  • Location: West Des Moines, Iowa
  • Work Arrangements: Mostly On-Site
  • Travel Requirements: Infrequent travel (less than 5%)

Total Rewards:
In addition to base pay, eligible employees may receive an annual discretionary incentive bonus and access to a competitive benefits package including:
  • Medical, Dental & Vision coverage:
  • 401(k) with Company Match
  • Paid time off: Vacation, Sick, Holiday, and more
  • Paid Parental Leave for both Mothers and Fathers
  • Hybrid/Remote Work Options
  • Early Friday Closure

EquiTrust is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in the U.S. Federal E-Verify program. Applicants have rights under federal and state employment laws. To learn more, visit EquiTrust Careers.
#LI-SD01
#LI-HYBRID