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Sales Development Representative Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Sales Development Rep

Davenport, IA · On-site

$35K - $55K/yr

As a Sales Development Representative you will be a key contributor to our enterprise wide sales initiative. We are looking for someone with a proven track record and hunger for success in our ...

The Sales Development Representative is a hunter at heart, and often Workiva's first contact with a prospect organization. Are you an expert at outbound prospecting and cold calls? The SDR possesses ...

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Sales Development Representative information

See Iowa salary details

$26.8K

$51.7K

$83.6K

How much do sales development representative jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for sales development representative in Iowa is $51,676.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,400.00 and $57,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Sales Development Representatives face when qualifying leads, and how can they overcome them?

Sales Development Representatives (SDRs) often encounter challenges such as reaching decision-makers, handling objections, and distinguishing qualified prospects from uninterested contacts. To overcome these hurdles, successful SDRs use targeted research to personalize outreach, employ effective questioning to identify pain points, and listen actively to address concerns. Regular collaboration with account executives and marketing teams also helps refine lead qualification criteria, ensuring SDRs focus their efforts on the most promising opportunities.

What does a sales development representative do?

A sales development representative (SDR) is responsible for prospecting and qualifying potential customers to generate sales leads. They typically conduct outreach via calls, emails, and social media, and use customer relationship management (CRM) tools to track interactions. SDRs focus on early-stage sales activities to support the sales team and often require strong communication skills and product knowledge.

Is SDR the hardest sales job?

Sales Development Representatives (SDRs) often face high rejection rates and must quickly learn to qualify leads and communicate value propositions. The role requires strong communication skills, resilience, and the ability to handle a fast-paced environment, which can make it challenging compared to other sales positions. However, difficulty varies based on individual skills and company expectations.

What Does a Sales Development Representative Do?

Sales development representatives seek sales leads through marketing on social media, email, and phone calls. As a sales development representative, you determine if a sales lead has a good chance of purchasing the product or service you are marketing before sending that lead to a sales closer. This process allows salespeople to focus on closing the deal instead of prospecting. You speak with main buyers at companies or with prospective buyers who contact you after seeing your marketing materials, and you discuss their needs to see if your product is a good fit for their overall goals. Many sales development reps have a degree in business, marketing, or a related field. Others enter the role without formal education but with several years of experience in sales or marketing.

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

To thrive as a Sales Development Representative, you need strong communication, prospecting, and lead qualification skills, typically supported by a bachelor's degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with CRM systems like Salesforce, email outreach tools, and sales enablement platforms is usually required. Persistence, active listening, and resilience are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities are essential for effectively identifying prospects, nurturing leads, and driving revenue growth in a competitive sales environment.

Is SDR an entry-level role?

Yes, a Sales Development Representative (SDR) is typically an entry-level position in sales, often suitable for candidates with little to no prior experience. It usually involves training in sales techniques, CRM tools, and lead generation, making it accessible for recent graduates or those transitioning into sales careers.

What is the difference between Sales Development Representative vs Business Development Representative?

AspectSales Development RepresentativeBusiness Development Representative
Primary FocusGenerating qualified leads and setting appointmentsBuilding strategic partnerships and expanding market opportunities
Work EnvironmentInside sales, cold calling, email outreachNetworking, strategic meetings, market research
Required CredentialsTypically high school diploma or equivalent; sales trainingSimilar credentials; often with additional business or marketing knowledge

While both roles involve outreach and lead generation, Sales Development Representatives focus on qualifying leads and scheduling sales meetings, whereas Business Development Representatives work on creating strategic partnerships and expanding business opportunities. The roles often overlap but serve different stages of the sales and growth process.

What are Sales Development Representatives?

Sales Development Representatives (SDRs) are professionals responsible for identifying and qualifying potential customers for a company’s products or services. They focus on outbound prospecting, engaging with leads through calls, emails, and social media, and setting up meetings or appointments for the sales team. SDRs play a crucial role in building the sales pipeline by generating and nurturing leads before passing them to account executives or senior sales staff. Their efforts help increase the efficiency and productivity of the overall sales process.

Do SDRs make good money?

Sales Development Representatives (SDRs) can earn a base salary plus commissions or bonuses based on sales performance. Their total compensation varies by industry, location, and experience, with many earning a competitive income that can increase significantly with success in lead generation and qualification efforts.
What are the most commonly searched types of Sales Development Representative jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Sales Development Representative jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Sales Development Representative jobs in Iowa? For Sales Development Representative jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Sales Development Representative jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Sales Development Representative jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Sales Development Representative jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Sales Development Representative job openings:
Infographic showing various Sales Development Representative job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,676 per year, or $24.8 per hour.
Sales Development Representative

Sales Development Representative

Transparent Financial

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Sales Development Representative

Transparent Financial — Des Moines, IA
Full-Time | $70,000–$120,000 per year

Transparent Financial is a nationally recognized sales organization headquartered in Bloomington, MN. Established in 2004, our team has averaged 31% growth year over year for the last 17 years — expanding from 2 representatives in Minneapolis to more than 300 across 26 states. This consistent growth, driven by top-performing professionals, has created a unique expansion opportunity and an increased need for leadership in the Des Moines region.

We are looking for individuals who are growth-minded, driven, and passionate, and who are seeking a long-term career where they can truly be paid what they’re worth. We operate in a business-to-business sales environment offering unlimited income and advancement potential.

About the Role

As a Sales Development Representative, you’ll build meaningful relationships with local business owners, general managers, and HR directors to provide supplemental insurance benefits for their employees. You’ll help employers offer affordable, impactful solutions that make a real difference in people’s lives.

What You Can Expect

  • Competitive sales and leadership bonuses
  • Industry-leading incentives and recognition trips
  • Hands-on training with top-performing leaders — both in the classroom and in the field
  • Accelerated growth opportunities (many representatives are promoted within their first 3 months)
  • Lifetime vesting in renewals to reward long-term success
  • Ongoing corporate-sponsored leadership and sales training
  • A positive, high-energy culture focused on growth and teamwork

Career Advantages

  • Flexible work schedule and autonomy in your day
  • Achievable incentives with cash bonuses and travel rewards
  • Territory range of 15–45 miles from your location
  • Less than 10% travel required, with opportunities for those who enjoy it
  • Industry-leading training tailored to your strengths
  • Merit-based advancement — your performance drives your success
  • Continuous recognition for achievements
  • A supportive culture that fosters ownership, development, and empowerment
  • Backed by an A+ BBB rating and multiple Stevie Business Awards

Ideal Candidates

  • Have 1+ year of sales experience (preferred, not required)
  • Enjoy face-to-face interactions and relationship building
  • Maintain a positive, driven, and coachable attitude
  • Are motivated to learn, grow, and lead
  • Thrive working independently toward meaningful goals
  • Seek personal and professional growth within a high-performing team

Compensation & Schedule

  • Annual earnings potential: $70,000–$120,000+
  • Bonus opportunities and advancement potential
  • Full-time schedule: Monday to Friday
  • In-person role in Des Moines, IA

Ready to take your career — and your income — to the next level?
Join a proven, nationally recognized team where your ambition is rewarded and your growth has no limits. Apply today to become a Sales Development Representative with Transparent Financial and make 2025 your breakthrough year.

Company Description

Transparent Financial is a nationally recognized, fast-growing agency dedicated to protecting families from the financial impact of unexpected illness and accidents through our 100% money-back policies. Since 2004, we’ve helped thousands of clients secure peace of mind while building a team of high-performing professionals across multiple states.
A career with us means more than a paycheck — it’s a chance to make a meaningful impact, build long-term wealth and stability for your family, and grow into leadership. We offer world-class training, a supportive culture, and unlimited income potential for those who are driven to succeed.