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Department Of State Contractor Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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Department Of State Contractor information

See Iowa salary details

$62.5K

$96.5K

$145.6K

How much do department of state contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for department of state contractor in Iowa is $96,469.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $127,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Department of State contractor?

Department of State Contractors are individuals or companies hired by the U.S. Department of State to provide specialized services, support, or expertise that supplement the work of direct government employees. These roles can include security, logistics, IT, translation, construction, and administrative support, both domestically and abroad. Contractors work under specific contracts and are not considered federal employees, but they play a crucial role in fulfilling the Department's global mission.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Department of State contractor?

To thrive as a Department of State Contractor, you need specialized expertise in your field, a relevant degree or certification, and experience working in government or international environments. Familiarity with government contracting procedures, security clearance protocols, and systems like GSA or SAM.gov is often required. Exceptional communication, cultural sensitivity, and adaptability are crucial soft skills for collaborating across diverse teams and navigating complex assignments abroad. These skills ensure compliance, effective project execution, and successful representation of U.S. interests in challenging global contexts.

What are some common challenges Department of State contractors face when working on international assignments?

Department of State Contractors often encounter challenges such as adapting to different cultural norms, navigating complex security protocols, and working in high-pressure environments. Assignments may require flexibility to handle rapidly changing situations, sometimes in regions with limited resources or heightened political sensitivities. Collaboration with both U.S. government officials and local partners is essential, and clear communication is key to ensuring mission success and personal safety.

What is the difference between Department Of State Contractor vs Diplomatic Security Officer?

AspectDepartment Of State ContractorDiplomatic Security Officer
Required CredentialsSecurity clearance, relevant certifications, sometimes military or law enforcement backgroundSecurity clearance, law enforcement or military experience, specialized training in security and protection
Work EnvironmentContract-based, often in diplomatic missions, government facilities, or international locationsOn-site security at diplomatic facilities, embassies, or consulates, often in high-threat areas
Employer & Industry UsagePrivate contractors working for the Department of State, government contracting firmsU.S. Department of State, diplomatic security services

While both roles involve security and require clearance, Department Of State Contractors typically work on contractual projects supporting diplomatic missions, whereas Diplomatic Security Officers are employed directly by the State Department to provide security at diplomatic facilities. The roles differ mainly in employment status and specific duties, but both require similar credentials and security expertise.

What are popular job titles related to Department Of State Contractor jobs in Iowa?

For Department Of State Contractor jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Department Of State Contractor jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Department Of State Contractor jobs in Iowa are:

Department Of State Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Department Of State Contractor job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 32% Full Time, and 68% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $96,469 per year, or $46.4 per hour.

Custodian I - Department of Residence

Iowa State University

Ames, IA • On-site

$14 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Iowa State University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

385th of 621 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Title:Custodian I - Department of ResidenceJob Group:MeritRequired Minimum Qualifications: Ability to read, write, and follow instructions.Job Description:

Are you ready to embark on a custodial role that's steady, meaningful, and rooted in community?

Iowa State University is seeking a dependable and motivated applicants to join the Department of Residence as a Custodian I. You'll have the opportunity to become a valued member of our campus community; supporting the spaces where students live, study, and connect.

As one of the largest non-academic departments on campus, the Department of Residence employs more than 400 staff members who work together to create a supportive learning and social environment for students. In this role, you'll be at the forefront of maintaining campus buildings and common areas, helping ensure spaces are clean, welcoming, and ready for daily use. Each day brings a mix of routine and variety, offering hands-on work that makes a visible difference.

If you're looking for reliable work, strong benefits, and a team-oriented environment, we encourage you to apply.

What You'll Do

  • Perform general cleaning throughout residence hall buildings, including common areas, restrooms, offices, and other assigned spaces

  • Maintain floors using a variety of methods such as vacuuming, mopping, scrubbing, stripping, and waxing

  • Clean and disinfect bathrooms, fixtures, furniture, and high-touch surfaces

  • Restock supplies such as soap, paper towels, and toilet paper in assigned areas

  • Collect and remove trash and recycling throughout the building

  • Move furniture and equipment as needed to support cleaning and daily operations

  • Assist with basic upkeep such as changing light bulbs and reporting maintenance concerns

  • Support conferences and events by handling linens, room setup, and cleanup as needed

  • Perform limited exterior duties such as clearing entrances, sidewalks, and nearby areas

What You'll Get

  • Insurance benefits beginning on your first day, with timely enrollment.

  • Retirement benefits with strong university contributions.

  • Paid vacation, sick leave, and holiday pay.

  • Tuition reimbursement available after one year of employment.

  • A collaborative, service-oriented workplace dedicated to supporting students.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Prior custodial, janitorial, or commercial cleaning experience

  • Experience operating commercial cleaning equipment

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

  • Resume/Curriculum Vitae

  • Letter of Application/Cover Letter

Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:

  • Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans

  • Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans

  • Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)

  • Life insurance and long-term disability

  • Flexible Spending Accounts

  • Various voluntary benefits and discounts

  • Employee Assistance Program

  • Wellbeing program

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Appointment Type:RegularNumber of Months Employed Per Year:12 Month Work PeriodTime Type:Full timePay Grade:0003aOriginal Posting Date:April 29, 2026Posting Close Date:September 3, 2026Job Requisition Number:R19111

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.

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