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Developer Jobs in Des Moines, IA (NOW HIRING)

Software Developer Lead

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$113K - $142K/yr

Athene is seeking a Software Developer Lead to help shape the next generation of AI-native platforms that power critical insurance workflows. In this hands-on technical leadership role, you will ...

Software Developer Lead

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$113K - $142K/yr

Athene is seeking a Software Developer Lead to help shape the next generation of AI-native platforms that power critical insurance workflows. In this hands-on technical leadership role, you will ...

SQL Developer DBA5

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$44.25 - $60.50/hr

SQL Developer DBA5 Department: Department of Human Services Work Location: 1305 East Walnut, Des Moines, IA 50315 Duration: 6+ Months End Client: State Of Iowa Interview Mode: In Person Only ...

SQL Developer DBA5

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$44.25 - $60.50/hr

SQL Developer DBA5 Department: Department of Human Services Work Location: 1305 East Walnut, Des Moines, IA 50315 Duration: 6+ Months End Client: State Of Iowa Interview Mode: In Person Only ...

Principal Java Developer Des Moines, Iowa (Hybrid) Schedule: 4 Days Onsite | 1 Day Remote A well-established financial institution is seeking a Principal Java Developer to provide hands-on technical ...

DevOps Engineer Terraform Expert

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$51.50 - $70.50/hr

DevOps Engineer Terraform Expert Des Moines, IA 50309 - Hybrid 3-12 months assignment with possibility for extension The State client is on the lookout for a highly skilled DevOps Engineer with 10+ ...

Java Developer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$49.75 - $64.50/hr

We use Objective C and Swift programming languages to create native applications for iPhone, whereas we use Android Code to develop native applications for Android devices. To create applications ...

Lead Developer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$102K - $121K/yr

The Lead Developer is a member of the application development team. The position is responsible for designing and developing technical solutions in support of our business needs. Using a continuous ...

Java Developer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$49.75 - $64.50/hr

Deep understanding of object-oriented programming principles, design patterns, application architecture, test-driven development (TDD), and the complete software development lifecycle (SDLC). * Hands ...

Business Intelligence Developer

Des Moines, IA · On-site +1

$110K - $116K/yr

Dwolla, Inc. is seeking a Business Intelligence Developer to optimize data and design visualizations to improve processes and services for the Dwolla platform. The position duties include the ...

Senior .NET Developer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$53.75 - $68.25/hr

NET Developers Location: Des Moines, IA Duration: 12+ Months Client: IA-DOM-DOIT-SDP6 Hybrid The Department of Management's Division of Information Technology (DoIT) is seeking a highly skilled ...

Python Sr Developer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$118K - $159K/yr

Tata Consultancy Services is seeking an experienced Senior Python Developer with strong AWS cloud expertise to design, develop, and support scalable, cloud-native applications, APIs, and data ...

Showing results 21-40

Developer information

See Des Moines, IA salary details

$39K

$126.2K

$154.7K

How much do developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for developer in Des Moines, IA is $126,234.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $103,400.00 and $153,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Developer vs Software Engineer?

AspectDeveloperSoftware Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in computer science or related field, certifications varyOften requires a degree in computer science or software engineering, certifications may include Microsoft, AWS, etc.
Work EnvironmentWorks on coding, debugging, and implementing software applicationsDesigns, develops, tests, and maintains software systems, often involved in architecture decisions
Industry UsageCommonly used in tech companies, startups, and software firmsUsed across industries for system development, enterprise solutions, and software projects
Search & Comparison IntentPeople compare Developer with Software Engineer to understand roles and career paths

While both Developers and Software Engineers work on software projects, Developers primarily focus on coding and implementing features, whereas Software Engineers often take a broader role in designing and architecting software systems. The roles overlap significantly, but Software Engineers typically have a more comprehensive scope involving system design and engineering principles.

Is a developer still in demand?

Yes, developers are in high demand across many industries due to ongoing digital transformation and the need for software solutions. Skills in programming languages like Java, Python, and JavaScript, as well as experience with cloud platforms and agile development, enhance employability in this field.

What are some common challenges developers face when working on large-scale projects, and how can they overcome them?

Developers working on large-scale projects often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple team members, managing complex codebases, and ensuring consistent documentation. To overcome these obstacles, it's important to follow best practices like version control, code reviews, and regular communication through agile methodologies. Additionally, leveraging collaboration tools and maintaining clear documentation can help streamline workflows and minimize misunderstandings within the team.

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

To thrive as a Developer, you need strong programming skills in languages like Java, Python, or JavaScript, paired with a solid understanding of algorithms and software development principles, often supported by a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with version control systems (such as Git), integrated development environments (IDEs), and sometimes cloud platforms or specific frameworks is typical. Problem-solving ability, attention to detail, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial for building reliable, maintainable software and collaborating efficiently within development teams.

What is a developer?

A software developer—sometimes referred to as a software engineer, computer programmer, or computer scientist—designs and develops programs, applications, websites, and databases. Their responsibilities include creation, testing, and modification of the code that runs programs within IT systems. Software developers generally have a bachelor’s degree in computer science and are familiar with writing code in at least one programming language.

What are the most commonly searched types of Developer jobs in Des Moines, IA? The most popular types of Developer jobs in Des Moines, IA are:
What are popular job titles related to Developer jobs in Des Moines, IA? For Developer jobs in Des Moines, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Developer jobs in Des Moines, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Developer jobs in Des Moines, IA are:
What cities near Des Moines, IA are hiring for Developer jobs? Cities near Des Moines, IA with the most Developer job openings:
Infographic showing various Developer job openings in Des Moines, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,234 per year, or $60.7 per hour.

Software Developer Lead

Athene

West Des Moines, IA • On-site

$113K - $142K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Athene rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

We are driven to do more. More for our customers and the financial professionals who offer our products. If you are driven to do more and love the challenge of pursuing more, Athene is your kind of company. You will find we offer more than the basics to create an inclusive and dynamic work environment at our various locations.

Purpose:

Athene is seeking a Software Developer Lead to help shape the next generation of AI-native platforms that power critical insurance workflows. In this hands-on technical leadership role, you will design and deliver scalable, event-driven systems while advancing engineering practices that improve reliability, speed, and quality across the software development lifecycle. You'll serve as a trusted technical leader, influencing architecture, mentoring engineers, and driving adoption of modern AI-augmented development approaches.
This role offers the opportunity to solve complex technical challenges at enterprise scale while partnering across engineering and business teams to deliver innovative capabilities that directly support Athene's continued growth. Backed by Apollo's global investment platform, Athene is transforming retirement services through technology, innovation, and a culture built on our BEAM values-Believe in your co-workers, Engage actively, Act like owners, and Make it happen.

Accountabilities:

  • Lead the architecture, design, and delivery of scalable, event-driven distributed systems supporting business-critical insurance platforms.

  • Establish and champion AI-enabled, specification-driven software development practices that improve engineering quality, productivity, and delivery speed.

  • Drive platform reliability through strong observability, operational excellence, automation, and production readiness.

  • Provide technical leadership, mentorship, and architectural guidance across engineering teams while promoting engineering standards and continuous improvement.

  • Partner with cross-functional stakeholders to simplify complex technical challenges and deliver innovative, customer-focused solutions.


Qualifications and Experience:

  • 6+ years of experience designing and delivering enterprise software, distributed systems, or AI-enabled technology solutions, including recent experience applying AI to software development or business solutions, or relevant experience.

  • Demonstrated expertise designing secure, scalable, highly available distributed systems, with strong knowledge of cloud-native architectures, observability, automation, and modern engineering practices.

  • Proven ability to provide technical leadership by influencing architecture, mentoring engineers, driving innovation, and balancing speed, quality, and operational excellence in a fast-paced environment.

  • Strong critical thinking, adaptability, creativity, and a bias for action, with experience leveraging AI and automation to improve engineering effectiveness and accelerate delivery.

  • Experience working within enterprise or regulated environments is preferred.

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Technology, or a related field, or equivalent experience.

Drive. Discipline. Confidence. Focus. Commitment. Learn more about working at Athene.

Athene is a Military Friendly Employer! Learn more about how we support our Veterans.

Athene is committed to inclusion and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status or any other status protected by federal, state or local law.


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