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Pension Analyst Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

State of Iowa

Treasury Investment Officer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$53K - $81K/yr

Conduct investment research and prepare analysis and recommendations for Treasury leadership. Participate in meetings with pension investment staff, consultants, investment managers, and other ...

Nestlé S.A.

US Retirement Consultant

Solon, IA · On-site

$100 - $140/hr

Participate in special pension projects and initiatives as a consultant, contributing analysis, recommendations and technical expertise to support broader HR and organizational objectives. * Serve as ...

US Bank

Treasury Management Sales Analyst

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$86K - $101K/yr

... analytical and project management skills - Strong customer service/relations skills - Effective ... and pension (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements). Pay Range: $86,530.00 - $101 ...

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All JobsPension Analyst JobsPension Analyst Jobs in Iowa

Pension Analyst information

See Iowa salary details

$29.1K

$68.8K

$122.1K

How much do pension analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for pension analyst in Iowa is $68,811.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,300.00 and $81,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a pension analyst?

Pension Analysts are professionals who evaluate, administer, and manage pension plans for organizations or individuals. They ensure that retirement benefits are calculated correctly, comply with regulations, and are distributed appropriately. Their responsibilities often include analyzing plan data, preparing reports, assisting with audits, and answering plan participants' questions. Pension Analysts play a vital role in helping employees understand their retirement options and maintaining compliance with federal and state laws.

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

To thrive as a Pension Analyst, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a solid background in mathematics, finance, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with pension administration software, database management systems, and proficiency in Microsoft Excel are commonly required, while actuarial certifications can be advantageous. Excellent problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and the capacity to interpret complex regulations help professionals excel in this role. These skills are vital for accurately managing pension data, ensuring regulatory compliance, and providing clear information to clients or plan participants.

What are some common challenges pension analysts face when interpreting complex plan documents?

Pension Analysts often encounter challenges when reviewing and interpreting complex plan documents due to the detailed legal language and frequent updates to regulations. Navigating ambiguous clauses or legacy plan provisions can require extra attention to detail and collaboration with legal or compliance teams. Staying current with changing pension laws and ensuring accurate application to plan calculations are essential parts of the role. Developing strong analytical skills and leveraging team knowledge can help address these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Pension Analyst vs Actuary?

AspectPension AnalystActuary
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, certifications like CFA or pension-specific trainingDegree in mathematics, statistics, or actuarial science; professional actuarial exams
Work EnvironmentFinancial firms, pension funds, consulting firmsInsurance companies, consulting firms, pension plans
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in pension management and financial analysisIn insurance, risk assessment, and pension valuation
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for pension planning rolesMore specialized, but related in pension valuation

While both Pension Analysts and Actuaries work within the pension and financial sectors, Pension Analysts focus on analyzing pension plan data, funding status, and compliance, often with certifications like CFA. Actuaries perform complex risk assessments and valuation calculations, requiring advanced actuarial credentials. The roles overlap in pension valuation but differ in scope and technical depth.

How do you become a pension analyst?

To become a pension analyst, you typically need a bachelor's degree in finance, economics, actuarial science, or a related field. Gaining experience in financial analysis, working with pension plans, and obtaining certifications such as the CFA or actuarial credentials can enhance job prospects. Strong analytical skills and proficiency with financial software are also important.

What are the most commonly searched types of Pension Analyst jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Pension Analyst jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Pension Analyst jobs in Iowa?

For Pension Analyst jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Pension Analyst jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Pension Analyst jobs in Iowa are:

Pension Analyst jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pension Analyst job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,811 per year, or $33.1 per hour.

Retirement Benefit Analyst V

Principal Financial Group

Des Moines, IA • On-site, Remote

$69K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

What You'll Do

As a Retirement Benefit Analyst V, you will be responsible for updating and maintaining accurate Defined Benefit participant records. This is a great opportunity for those with strong Defined Benefit knowledge and attention to detail.

We are looking for someone who thrives on using their analytical skills, enjoys collaborating with a wide variety of internal partners, and can develop tools and processes to meet the needs of an evolving retirement services landscape.

Other types of things you’ll do:

  • Complete assigned projects, including gathering and organizing information/data, processing benefit calculations and analysis. Identify and implement areas for improvement including the development of new tools and processes.
  • Provide pension technical assistance to business partners involving research, calculation analysis and solving questions and problems. Articulate technical benefit information to internal and external parties.
  • Analyze and review of benefit information; may involve performing quality reviews.
  • Mentor team members and act as a SME expert to all defined benefit areas. Write and maintain procedures, as needed.
  • Performs other job-related duties and special projects as required.

Operating at the intersection of financial services and technology, Principal builds financial tools that help our customers live better lives. We take pride in being a purpose-led firm, motivated by our mission to make financial security accessible to all. Our mission, integrity, and customer focus have made us a trusted leader for more than 140 years.


Who You Are
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience (preferably in a major related to analytical fields, including Math, Actuarial Science, Statistics)
  • 5+ years of work related experience in defined benefit pension field required
  • 3+ years of previous experience using defined benefit systems preferred
  • Must be able to interpret complex plan provisions
  • Strong mathematical, technical and analytical skills along with keen attention to detail
  • High integrity and discretion to ensure the confidentiality of client information.
  • Must have strong decision making and organizational skills
  • Must have strong mentoring, interpersonal and listening skills
  • Must be a team player and a positive influence in a team environment
  • Knowledge of spreadsheet and database or similar PC software packages, is required
Skills that will help you stand out:
  • Excellent mathematical and analytical skills.
  • Knowledge of SQL, XML, VBA, or other programming languages.
  • Must be able manage a large workload and prioritize accordingly with willingness and flexibility to work overtime, as needed.

Salary Range Information
Salary ranges below reflect targeted base salaries. Non-sales positions have the opportunity to participate in a bonus program. Sales positions are eligible for sales incentives, and in some instances a bonus plan, whereby total compensation may far exceed base salary depending on individual performance. Actual compensation for all roles will be based upon geographic location, work experience, education, licensure requirements and/or skill level and will be finalized at the time of offer.
Salary Range (Non-Exempt expressed as hourly; Exempt expressed as yearly)
$69300 - $145400 / year
Salary Details

The following levels and locations are examples of market-specific salary ranges across different job levels and geographies. Candidates will be evaluated to determine the appropriate job level based on their skills and experience. 

Retirement Benefit Analyst V:

  • Wichita, KS: $69,300 – $87,500 / yr
  • Des Moines, IA: $73,150 – $92,750 / yr
  • Charlotte, NC: $77,000 – $98,000 / yr
  • Chicago, IL / Minneapolis, MN: $84,700 – $108,500 / yr
  • Los Angeles, CA / New York City, NY: $92,400 – $119,000 / yr
Senior Retirement Benefit Analyst:
  • Wichita, KS: $84,600 – $107,300 / yr
  • Des Moines, IA: $89,300 – $113,650 / yr
  • Charlotte, NC: $94,000 – $120,000 / yr
  • Chicago, IL / Minneapolis, MN: $103,400 – $132,700 / yr
  • Los Angeles, CA / New York City, NY: $112,800 – $145,400 / yr

Time Off Program
Flexible Time Off (FTO) is provided to salaried (exempt) employees and provides the opportunity to take time away from the office with pay for vacation, personal or short-term illness. Employees don't accrue a bank of time off under FTO and there is no set number of days provided.
Pension Eligible
Yes
Work Environment

This role offers hybrid (blending at least three office days in a typical workweek) and remote work arrangements (only if residing more than 30 miles from Des Moines, IA or Charlotte, NC.). You’ll work with your leader to figure out which option may align best based on several factors.

Job Level

We’ll consider talent at the next level with the right experiences and skills.

Work Authorization/Sponsorship

At this time, we're not considering applicants that need any type of immigration sponsorship (additional work authorization or permanent work authorization) now or in the future to work in the United States. This includes, but IS NOT LIMITED TO: F1-OPT, F1-CPT, H-1B, TN, L-1, J-1, etc. For additional information around work authorization needs please use the following links.

Nonimmigrant Workers and Green Card for Employment-Based Immigrants

Investment Code of Ethics

For Principal Asset Management positions, you’ll need to follow an Investment Code of Ethics related to personal and business conduct as well as personal trading activities for you and members of your household. These same requirements may also apply to other positions across the organization.

Experience Principal

At Principal, we value connecting on both a personal and professional level. Together, we’re imagining a more purpose-led future for financial services – and that starts with you. Our success depends on the unique experiences, backgrounds, and talents of our employees. And we support our employees the same way we support our customers: with comprehensive, competitive benefit offerings crafted to protect their physical, financial, and social well-being. Check out our careers site to learn more about our purpose, values and benefits.

Principal is an Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.


Posting Window
We will accept applications for 3 full days following the Original Posting Date, after which the posting may remain open or be removed based upon applications received. If we choose to post the job again, we will accept additional applications for at least 1 full day following the Most Recently Posted Date. Please submit applications in a timely manner as there is no guarantee the posting will be available beyond the applicable deadline.
Original Posting Date
8/13/2026
Most Recently Posted Date
8/13/2026
 

Principal uses artificial intelligence tools to assist in reviewing and evaluating job applications, fraud prevention, and candidate matching and comparisons. These AI tools support our human recruiters in the initial review process but do not make final hiring decisions without human involvement. By submitting your application, you acknowledge this use of AI in our recruitment process. Please review our Workforce (U.S.) Privacy Notice for more details on our practices and your data privacy rights.


LinkedIn Remote Hashtag


#LI-RemoteQualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience (preferably in a major related to analytical fields, including Math, Actuarial Science, Statistics)
  • 5+ years of work related experience in defined benefit pension field required
  • 3+ years of previous experience using defined benefit systems preferred
  • Must be able to interpret complex plan provisions
  • Strong mathematical, technical and analytical skills along with keen attention to detail
  • High integrity and discretion to ensure the confidentiality of client information.
  • Must have strong decision making and organizational skills
  • Must have strong mentoring, interpersonal and listening skills
  • Must be a team player and a positive influence in a team environment
  • Knowledge of spreadsheet and database or similar PC software packages, is required
Skills that will help you stand out:
  • Excellent mathematical and analytical skills.
  • Knowledge of SQL, XML, VBA, or other programming languages.
  • Must be able manage a large workload and prioritize accordingly with willingness and flexibility to work overtime, as needed.
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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