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Public Administration Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Philanthropy Internship

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Nonprofit Management, Business Administration, Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Human Services, Social Work, Public Administration, Event Management

Bachelor's degree in information technology, computer science, information systems, business administration, public administration, educational leadership, or a related field. * Progressively ...

Currently enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Software Engineering, Data Science, Public Administration, Political Science, Economics, Business, or a ...

Public Policy Manager

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$70.72 - $106.60/hr

Bachelor's in Public Policy, Political Science, Health Care Administration, Public Health, or related field.* 4-6 years of progressively responsible experience in public policy, government affairs ...

Public Policy Manager

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$70.72 - $106.60/hr

Bachelor's in Public Policy, Political Science, Health Care Administration, Public Health, or related field.* 4-6 years of progressively responsible experience in public policy, government affairs ...

Public Policy Manager

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$70.72 - $106.60/hr

Bachelor's in Public Policy, Political Science, Health Care Administration, Public Health, or related field.* 4-6 years of progressively responsible experience in public policy, government affairs ...

Public Policy Manager

Sioux Center, IA · On-site

$70K - $106K/yr

Bachelor's in Public Policy, Political Science, Health Care Administration, Public Health, or related field. * 4-6 years of progressively responsible experience in public policy, government affairs ...

Public Policy Manager

Sibley, IA · On-site

$70K - $106K/yr

Bachelor's in Public Policy, Political Science, Health Care Administration, Public Health, or related field. * 4-6 years of progressively responsible experience in public policy, government affairs ...

Public Policy Manager

Spencer, IA · On-site

$70K - $106K/yr

Bachelor's in Public Policy, Political Science, Health Care Administration, Public Health, or related field. * 4-6 years of progressively responsible experience in public policy, government affairs ...

Public Policy Manager

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$70K - $106K/yr

Bachelor's in Public Policy, Political Science, Health Care Administration, Public Health, or related field. * 4-6 years of progressively responsible experience in public policy, government affairs ...

Public Policy Manager

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$70K - $106K/yr

Bachelor's in Public Policy, Political Science, Health Care Administration, Public Health, or related field. * 4-6 years of progressively responsible experience in public policy, government affairs ...

Public Policy Manager

Rock Rapids, IA · On-site

$70K - $106K/yr

Bachelor's in Public Policy, Political Science, Health Care Administration, Public Health, or related field. * 4-6 years of progressively responsible experience in public policy, government affairs ...

Public Policy Manager

Estherville, IA · On-site

$70K - $106K/yr

Bachelor's in Public Policy, Political Science, Health Care Administration, Public Health, or related field. * 4-6 years of progressively responsible experience in public policy, government affairs ...

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Public Administration information

See Iowa salary details

$38.5K

$90.7K

$127.3K

How much do public administration jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for public administration in Iowa is $90,729.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,100.00 and $99,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is public administration?

Public administration is the implementation of government policies and the management of public programs and services. Professionals in this field work to ensure that government operations run efficiently, transparently, and in the public interest. Public administrators may be involved in policy analysis, budgeting, human resources, and community outreach, often working at local, state, or federal government levels. Their goal is to serve the public by developing and managing programs that address societal needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in public administration?

To thrive in Public Administration, you need a strong background in public policy, organizational management, and often a degree in public administration or a related field. Familiarity with government regulations, data analysis tools, and public budgeting software is typically required. Exceptional communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help professionals navigate complex bureaucracies and serve diverse communities effectively. These skills ensure efficient governance, ethical decision-making, and the successful implementation of public programs.

What are common challenges faced by professionals in public administration, and how can they effectively navigate them?

Professionals in public administration often encounter challenges such as balancing competing stakeholder interests, adapting to changing regulations, and managing limited resources. Navigating these challenges requires strong communication skills, adaptability, and a collaborative approach to problem-solving. Building relationships with community members, policymakers, and other agencies is essential for effective program implementation. Additionally, staying informed about policy developments and engaging in ongoing professional development can help public administrators remain effective and resilient in their roles.

What is the difference between Public Administration vs Public Policy?

AspectPublic AdministrationPublic Policy
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Public Administration, Public Policy, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Public Policy, Political Science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, non-profits, public sector organizationsThink tanks, government offices, research institutions
Employer & Industry UsagePublic sector organizations managing operations and servicesPolicy analysis, development, and advocacy roles
Common Search & ComparisonPublic Administration vs Public Policy

Public Administration focuses on managing public sector organizations and implementing policies, while Public Policy emphasizes analyzing, developing, and advocating for policies. Both roles often require similar educational backgrounds and work in government or non-profit sectors, but their core functions differ: administration manages operations, whereas policy focuses on creating and influencing policies.

What can I do in public administration?

Public administration involves managing government agencies and programs, developing policies, and ensuring effective delivery of public services. Professionals in this field often work in areas such as urban planning, public finance, policy analysis, and administrative support, typically requiring knowledge of government regulations and strong organizational skills.

What can you do with a public administration degree?

A public administration degree prepares individuals for careers in government agencies, non-profit organizations, and public service roles. Graduates can work as city managers, policy analysts, public affairs specialists, or administrative officers, often requiring skills in management, policy analysis, and familiarity with government operations.

What do you do as a public administrator?

A public administrator manages government agencies and public programs, overseeing policy implementation, budgeting, and staff coordination. They often work with community stakeholders and use administrative tools to ensure effective delivery of public services.

What are the most commonly searched types of Public Administration jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Public Administration jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Public Administration jobs in Iowa?

For Public Administration jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Public Administration jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Public Administration job openings:

Infographic showing various Public Administration job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,729 per year, or $43.6 per hour.

Business/Public Administration Intern (Motor Vehicle Division)

State of Iowa

Ames, IA • On-site

$16.46/hr

Part-time, Internship

Posted 13 days ago


State Of Iowa rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 87 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Description The Iowa Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division is seeking two motivated and detail-oriented interns to support its Driver Education Programs (Parent Taught and Skip the Trip). This is an exciting opportunity for students pursuing a degree in business, Public Administration, or related fields who are passionate about public service and want to contribute to transportation safety across the state of Iowa. Help ensure Iowa's roads remain safe by supporting the systems and processes that help develop responsible and well prepared drivers.

Duties: Review and process driver education program applications (Parent Taught and Skip the Trip) in the queue Communicate by email with external customers to respond to inquiries regarding their applications Process various queue information efficiently and accurately Handle confidential work with tact and discretion Always Comply with the Federal Privacy Act. Duration: Part-time during fall and spring semesters (up to 20-hours per week) Minimum Qualification Requirements Currently enrolled students in a degree program at an accredited educational institution. Eligible majors: Public Administration or Business Administration.


What State Of Iowa employees say

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Get the full story on Breakroom


State of Iowa logo

About State of Iowa

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Iowa is not a company but the governmental structure of the U.S. state of Iowa, stationed in the capital city, Des Moines. The official website, iowa.gov, is a platform dedicated to providing information and services related to the state's governance. As a governmental establishment, the State of Iowa's 'industry' primarily involves social governance, policy-making, and public administration, overseeing sectors like education, health, transportation, agriculture, and other public services.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1939