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Civil Service Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

City of Muscatine

Program Aide

Muscatine, IA · On-site

$12 - $13/hr

Hiring Process For civil service positions, applications are screened for minimum qualifications. Applicants meeting the criteria will be invited to participate in the civil service testing process.

City of Muscatine

Program Aide

Muscatine, IA · On-site

$12 - $13/hr

Hiring Process For civil service positions, applications are screened for minimum qualifications. Applicants meeting the criteria will be invited to participate in the civil service testing process.

City of Ottumwa

Police Officer

Ottumwa, IA · On-site

$32.79 - $42.28/hr

Successfully pass all Civil Service examinations / processes and be placed on the eligibility list * Pass a psychological exam * Successfully complete an oral interview, background investigation, and ...

U.S. Navy

Civil Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$2.9K - $5.8K/mo

There are no uniforms, no drilling, and no service obligation until after you graduate. Simply work ... RESPONSIBILITIES As part of the Navy Civil Engineer Corps, you can receive unrivaled hands-on ...

Melloy Search Group

Civil Engineer

Iowa City, IA

They deliver unique technical solutions and outstanding service -- and are seeking a Civil Engineer I to join their Coralville or Cedar Rapids office. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS * Bachelor's degree in ...

U.S. Navy

Civil Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$2.9K - $5.8K/mo

There are no uniforms, no drilling, and no service obligation until after you graduate. Simply work ... RESPONSIBILITIES As part of the Navy Civil Engineer Corps, you can receive unrivaled hands-on ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsCivil Service JobsCivil Service Jobs in Iowa

Civil Service information

See Iowa salary details

$35.7K

$77.7K

$115.5K

How much do civil service jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for civil service in Iowa is $77,652.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,400.00 and $92,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Which is the best civil service job?

The best civil service job depends on individual interests and skills, but roles such as administrative officers, policy analysts, and law enforcement officers are highly regarded for their stability, benefits, and opportunities for advancement. These positions often require relevant qualifications, exams, and security clearances, and they typically offer a structured work environment with regular hours.

What opportunities for career advancement exist within the civil service, and how can employees prepare for them?

The Civil Service offers a well-structured career path with opportunities for advancement through internal promotions, professional development programs, and rotational assignments. Employees are encouraged to take part in training sessions, pursue relevant qualifications, and demonstrate leadership potential to progress to higher grades or specialized roles. Networking with colleagues across departments and seeking mentorship can also support career growth. Actively engaging in challenging projects and displaying adaptability are key factors in standing out for advancement.

What is a civil service job?

Civil Service jobs are positions within government departments and agencies that support the functioning of the public sector. These roles can include administrative, technical, and professional work in areas such as education, healthcare, transportation, and law enforcement. Civil servants are typically hired based on merit and are responsible for implementing government policies and delivering public services. Working in the Civil Service offers job stability, opportunities for career advancement, and the chance to make a positive impact on society.

What is the difference between Civil Service vs Government Clerk?

AspectCivil ServiceGovernment Clerk
Required CredentialsTypically a degree in public administration, political science, or related fieldsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require administrative certifications
Work EnvironmentGovernment offices, agencies, and departments with policy and administrative responsibilitiesClerical and administrative settings within government offices
Employer & Industry UsagePublic sector, federal, state, and local government agenciesLocal and federal government offices, often in administrative roles
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for career stability, benefits, and entry requirementsCompared for administrative duties, job scope, and career progression

In summary, Civil Service roles generally require higher education and involve policy or administrative work within government agencies, offering broader responsibilities and career growth. Government Clerks typically perform clerical tasks with lower entry requirements, focusing on administrative support within government offices.

What skills and qualifications are needed for a civil service role?

To thrive in a Civil Service role, you typically need strong analytical skills, organizational abilities, and a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with government procedures, policy development tools, and office software systems such as Microsoft Office Suite is often required. Effective communication, problem-solving, and adaptability are crucial soft skills for success in public sector environments. These skills and qualities are essential for efficiently serving the public, implementing policy, and navigating complex administrative processes.

What are the most commonly searched types of Civil Service jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Civil Service jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Civil Service jobs in Iowa?

For Civil Service jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Civil Service jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Civil Service jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Civil Service jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Civil Service job openings:

Civil Service jobs near you
Infographic showing various Civil Service job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,652 per year, or $37.3 per hour.

Public Safety Telecommunicator I

CITY OF WEST DES MOINES

West Des Moines, IA • On-site

$30.10 - $32.34/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

City Of West Des Moines rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

196th of 846 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Description
Civil Service Status
This is a Civil Service position
Hours of Work
Shift and days of work will vary depending on shift bid. Overtime and weekend work as required
Tentative Start Date
October/November 2026
Job Summary
Westcom Emergency Communications is currently seeking full-time qualified individuals to provide emergency dispatch services for the 175,000 residents of the City of West Des Moines, Urbandale, Clive, Norwalk, Waukee, and Windsor Heights. Under the general direction of the Public Safety Telecommunications Shift Supervisor, dispatches Police, Fire Department, and EMS to situations in the government entities served by Westcom. Maintains and coordinates accurate communication between Police, Fire, EMS Departments, other government entities, and the public.
Deadline to Apply
August 31, 2026 at 11:59 pm
Job Description
Public Safety Telecommunicator I
Requirements
This position requires a High School Diploma or equivalent, plus one (1) year additional schooling or a minimum one (1) year of experience dealing with the public and/or heavy customer service contact. Previous experience in public safety is preferred. Applicants must be flexible with working various days, shifts and overtime hours, including holidays and weekends.
Special Note:
An essential function of the Public Safety Telecommunicator position is to be able to access the Iowa/National Crime Information Center (NCIC). In accordance with the Criminal Justice Information Service (CJIS) manual, the following criminal history would disqualify a candidate from being hired:
If the applicant pleads or is found guilty of a felony or aggravated misdemeanor, whether or not judgment is entered, access [to the NCIC system] will not be granted.
The Department of Public Safety makes the determination if access is granted to the NCIC system at their sole discretion. Candidates will not be eligible for hire if it is determined by the Department of Public Safety that they would not be granted NCIC certification.
Criminal history checks are conducted after the recruitment process is completed and the Civil Service Certified List has been approved by the Civil Service Commission.

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