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Local Government Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Iowa League of Cities

Be Seen First

Safety and Risk Improvement Adviser

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$67K/yr

Qualifications · Minimum of three years of experience in safety, risk management, local government, or a related field. · Working knowledge of safety and risk management practices, preferably ...

City of Independence

Intern (Unpaid)

Independence, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

This general application is designed for students and recent graduates who are eager to learn how local government functions and who wish to contribute to the community. While we may not always have ...

Fortinet

Regional Account Manager, SLED

Des Moines, IA · Remote

The Regional Account Manager (RAM) is an exciting role within the Fortinet sales organization that is focused on an important subset of the SLED (State, Local Government and Education) segment. RAM ...

New

Trinity Health

Physical Therapist Des Moines

Riverside, IA · On-site

$1.5K - $2.0K/wk

The local government serves more than 211,000 residents throughout 49 neighborhoods with more than 4,000 acres of parkland and 81 miles of trails. Some cities are great places to retire. Others are ...

New

Trinity Health

Physical Therapist Des Moines

Riverside, IA · On-site

$1.5K - $2.0K/wk

The local government serves more than 211,000 residents throughout 49 neighborhoods with more than 4,000 acres of parkland and 81 miles of trails. Some cities are great places to retire. Others are ...

New

Trinityhealth

Physical Therapist Des Moines

Riverside, IA

$1.5K - $2.0K/wk

The local government serves more than 211,000 residents throughout 49 neighborhoods with more than 4,000 acres of parkland and 81 miles of trails. Some cities are great places to retire. Others are ...

New

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All JobsLocal Government JobsLocal Government Jobs in Iowa

Local Government information

See Iowa salary details

$42.7K

$105.7K

$147K

How much do local government jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for local government in Iowa is $105,711.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,300.00 and $124,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in local government roles?

Professionals in local government often encounter challenges such as balancing the needs of diverse community groups, navigating limited budgets, and adapting to frequent policy changes. They may also face tight deadlines, high public expectations, and the need for close collaboration with other departments, elected officials, and external stakeholders. Successfully managing these challenges requires effective communication, problem-solving abilities, and a strong commitment to public service.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Local Government role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Local Government role, you need a solid understanding of public administration, local laws, and policy implementation, typically supported by a relevant degree in public administration, political science, or a similar field. Familiarity with government management software, budgeting tools, and legal compliance systems is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and community engagement skills help build trust and foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders. These competencies are essential for effectively serving the public, ensuring transparent operations, and meeting community needs.

What is the difference between Local Government vs City Planner?

AspectLocal GovernmentCity Planner
Required CredentialsVaries; often includes degrees in public administration, political science, or related fieldsBachelor's or master's in urban planning, geography, or related fields
Work EnvironmentGovernment offices, community centers, public meetingsUrban areas, planning departments, public consultations
Employer & Industry UsageLocal government agencies, municipalitiesCity or regional planning departments, consulting firms
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on governance, policy, and administration at the local levelFocuses on designing and developing urban spaces and land use

While both roles operate within local government structures, Local Government professionals oversee broader administrative functions, policies, and community services. City Planners specialize in land use, urban development, and spatial planning to shape city growth. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations within local government sectors.

What are local government jobs?

Local government jobs are positions within city, county, or municipal organizations responsible for providing various public services and managing community resources. These jobs range from administrative roles, such as city clerks and finance officers, to public service positions like police officers, public works employees, and librarians. Local government employees help maintain infrastructure, enforce local laws, and support community development, playing a vital role in the daily functioning of towns and cities. Working in local government often involves serving the public and contributing to the well-being and growth of the local area.

What Types of Jobs Are Available in Local Government?

There are a wide variety of local government jobs available. Regardless of whether you want to get involved in local politics, you can find government jobs that involve any number of tasks. Towns need people to issue permits, handle paperwork, maintain buildings and lawns, and more. There are many departments within the local government that help a town run including parks and recreation, sewage, and city planning. If you are interested in politics, you can find jobs as a secretary or even run for your town’s city council. Regardless of your job preferences, chances are you can find a job that helps out your local community at the same time.

More about Local Government jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Government jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Government jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Local Government jobs in Iowa? For Local Government jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Local Government jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Local Government jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Local Government jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Local Government job openings:
Local Government jobs near you
Infographic showing various Local Government job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,711 per year, or $50.8 per hour.
Safety and Risk Improvement Adviser

Safety and Risk Improvement Adviser

Iowa League of Cities

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$67K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Be Seen First

After you apply to this job, you can share why you’re interested to jump to the top of the candidate list.

Job description

Safety and Risk Improvement Adviser

The Iowa Municipal Workers’ Compensation Association (IMWCA) is seeking a Safety and Risk Improvement Adviser to provide professional risk management and safety consulting services to local government members throughout Iowa. This position plays a key role in helping cities, counties, and other public entities reduce workplace injuries, manage risk exposures, and improve overall safety performance.

Key Responsibilities

·         Conduct on-site safety and risk assessments for municipal and county members.

·         Identify workplace hazards and provide practical recommendations to reduce risk and prevent losses.

·         Analyze workers’ compensation trends, loss data, and risk exposures.

·         Investigate incidents and recommend corrective actions.

·         Prepare written reports and present findings to local government officials and management.

·         Develop and deliver safety training programs, workshops, and presentations.

·         Assist with underwriting reviews and provide risk assessment recommendations.

·         Build strong working relationships with elected officials, administrators, and member organizations.

·         Travel extensively throughout Iowa to conduct member visits and consultations.

Qualifications

·         Minimum of three years of experience in safety, risk management, local government, or a related field.

·         Working knowledge of safety and risk management practices, preferably within local government operations.

·         Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to present to groups and work with diverse stakeholders.

·         Ability to analyze data, identify trends, and develop practical solutions.

·         Proficiency with computer applications and reporting tools.

·         Valid Iowa driver’s license with an insurable driving record.

Preferred Qualifications

·         Experience with workers’ compensation programs.

·         Experience working with municipalities or other governmental entities.

·         Associate degree or coursework in a related field.

·         Professional certifications such as Associate in Risk Management (ARM), Certified Safety Professional (CSP), or OSHA 30-Hour certification.

Why Join IMWCA?

This position offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on workplace safety across Iowa’s local governments while working with a team dedicated to serving public entities through education, consultation, and risk management expertise.

To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter for consideration by July 31, 2026.

Company Description

The Iowa League of Cities serves as the unified voice of cities, providing advocacy, training and guidance to strengthen Iowa’s communities.
We recognize the need for strong leadership in our missions and in each of our values. These values represent the shared principles that guide all of our efforts and decisions.