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State Controller Jobs in Des Moines, IA (NOW HIRING)

Robert Half

Controller

Des Moines, IA · On-site

Controller Role - Opportunity to Lead and Influence If you're an experienced accounting ... Knowledge of multi-state tax compliance, including payroll, sales, and use tax filings. * Ability ...

Telligen

Controller

West Des Moines, IA

As the Controller, you will direct and control financial management and financial reporting ... state and federal government programs, and employers and health plans. Over our 50-year history ...

Telligen

Controller

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

As the Controller, you will direct and control financial management and financial reporting ... state and federal government programs, and employers and health plans. Over our 50-year history ...

Telligen

Controller

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

As the Controller, you will direct and control financial management and financial reporting ... state and federal government programs, and employers and health plans. Over our 50-year history ...

State of Iowa

State Park Technician

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$41K - $61K/yr

Perform vital conservation work such as controlled burns, habitat improvements, invasive species control, and pesticide application. Public Engagement: Represent the DNR at public events, collaborate ...

City of Des Moines, IA

Comptroller

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$116K - $165K/yr

Finance Division: FN080000 - FN Controller/Accounting Opening Date: 04/17/2026 Closing Date ... state and federal officials and the public. The principal duties of this class are performed in a ...

Ventura Foods

Operations Finance Mgr

Bondurant, IA · On-site

Records cost information for use in controlling expenditures. * Compiles cost information to be ... Prepare and submit state and federal government documentation. Other duties/Responsibilities

City of Des Moines

Comptroller

Des Moines, IA

$116K - $165K/yr

... state and federal officials and the public. The principal duties of this class are performed in a general office environment. The City of Des Moines promotes a healthy work life balance and offers a ...

Iowa State University

Certified Pharmacy Technician

Ames, IA

$17.50 - $21.50/hr

If so, Thielen Student Health Center at Iowa State University is seeking applicants for a Certified ... Receive and verify controlled substance shipments and assist with inventory audits. * Train and ...

Iowa State University

Certified Pharmacy Technician

Ames, IA · On-site

$17.50 - $21.50/hr

If so, Thielen Student Health Center at Iowa State University is seeking applicants for a Certified ... Receive and verify controlled substance shipments and assist with inventory audits. * Train and ...

Athene

AVP, Finance Implementation

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

Lead the execution of strategic Controllership initiatives from current-state assessment through implementation, adoption, stabilization, and transition to sustainable business ownership. * Diagnose ...

New

State of Iowa

HVAC Technician

Johnston, IA · On-site

$54K - $70K/yr

... controllers, and BACnet devices Perform installation, maintenance, and repair of refrigeration ... At the State of Iowa, we are committed to your well-being. As a valued team member, you'll enjoy a ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsState Controller JobsState Controller Jobs in Des Moines, IA

State Controller information

See Des Moines, IA salary details

$53.7K

$116.6K

$171.3K

How much do state controller jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for state controller in Des Moines, IA is $116,619.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,700.00 and $135,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the responsibilities of a state controller?

A State Controller is a high-ranking government official responsible for overseeing the financial operations and accounting of a state. Their duties typically include managing the state's accounting systems, processing payments, auditing government agencies, and preparing financial reports. The State Controller ensures transparency and accountability in the handling of public funds, and often plays a key role in developing state budgets and financial policies. This position is critical for maintaining the financial integrity of state government operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a state controller?

To thrive as a State Controller, you need a strong background in accounting, finance, and public administration, often supported by a CPA license or advanced degree. Familiarity with government financial systems, auditing software, and compliance tools is typically required. Leadership, ethical judgment, and effective communication are essential soft skills for managing teams and ensuring transparency. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring the financial integrity of state operations.

What are some common challenges faced by a state controller in managing statewide financial operations?

State Controllers often navigate challenges such as ensuring compliance with complex and evolving governmental accounting standards, managing large-scale budgets, and overseeing the timely preparation of financial reports. They must coordinate with multiple state agencies, each with unique financial needs and regulations, which requires strong communication and problem-solving skills. Additionally, State Controllers are responsible for implementing new technologies and systems to improve efficiency, all while maintaining transparency and accountability in public fund management.

What is the difference between State Controller vs State Treasurer?

AspectState ControllerState Treasurer
Primary ResponsibilitiesManaging state accounting, financial reporting, and overseeing budget executionManaging state funds, investments, and debt issuance
Required CredentialsAccounting or finance degree, CPA often preferredFinance, accounting, or economics degree, certifications like CFA beneficial
Work EnvironmentGovernment offices, accounting departmentsFinancial management units, treasury departments
Industry UsageCommonly used in state government financial operationsFocuses on cash management and investment activities

The State Controller and State Treasurer roles both operate within state government financial management but focus on different areas. The Controller handles accounting, financial reporting, and budget oversight, while the Treasurer manages investments and cash flow. Both positions require finance or accounting credentials and work in government financial departments, but their core functions differ significantly.

What does a State Controller do for a state?

A State Controller is responsible for managing the state's financial records, overseeing accounting, budgeting, and financial reporting. They ensure the accuracy of financial data, maintain internal controls, and often work with auditors to ensure compliance with laws and regulations.

What are popular job titles related to State Controller jobs in Des Moines, IA?

For State Controller jobs in Des Moines, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching State Controller jobs in Des Moines, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for State Controller jobs in Des Moines, IA are:

State Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various State Controller job openings in Des Moines, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,619 per year, or $56.1 per hour.

Controller

Robert Half

Des Moines, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Take ownership of core financial functions, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.

  • Ensure accurate and timely payroll, sales, and use tax compliance across Iowa, Nebraska, and Illinois.

  • Oversee and support accounts payable and accounts receivable activities, including managing two direct reports.

Job description

Controller Role – Opportunity to Lead and Influence

If you’re an experienced accounting professional looking for a role where you can truly make a difference, this Controller opportunity offers the chance to step into a key leadership position with a growing manufacturing company.

This organization generates approximately $20M in revenue and is on an upward trajectory. They’re seeking a hands-on Controller who can help guide the financial side of the business while partnering with leadership to support continued growth and operational improvement.

In this role, you would take ownership of core financial functions, including budgeting and forecasting, while also ensuring accurate and timely payroll, sales, and use tax compliance across Iowa, Nebraska, and Illinois. Beyond the traditional Controller responsibilities, this position calls for someone who can think strategically, jump into areas like AP and AR when needed, and identify ways to improve processes, solve problems, and strengthen day-to-day efficiency.

This is a highly visible role with the opportunity to work closely with operational leaders, including the plant manager, to better understand the business and help drive meaningful improvements.

What makes this opportunity especially compelling is the company culture. The team is close-knit, genuine, and committed to maintaining an employee-focused environment. Leadership values autonomy and wants this person to have the freedom to shape the role, bring ideas forward, and create impact. You would oversee two direct reports in AP and AR and work alongside a team that takes pride in supporting employees in practical, thoughtful ways.

This could be an excellent fit for someone who is organized, proactive, team-oriented, and comfortable in a hands-on manufacturing setting. The environment is straightforward, fast-moving, and full of personality, making it ideal for someone who appreciates authenticity and wants to be part of a business where contributions are noticed.

Highlights of the opportunity include:

  • Joining a company with growth projections from $20M to $30M over the next three years
  • Having the autonomy to structure your work and lead with ownership
  • Working with a leadership team that is supportive, approachable, and people-focused
  • Becoming part of a positive, engaged team in a business with strong momentum


• At least 5 years of accounting experience, including responsibility for financial reporting and close activities.
• Demonstrated background in budgeting, forecasting, and analyzing financial statements.
• Experience overseeing month-end close in a manufacturing or similarly operational business environment.
• Knowledge of multi-state tax compliance, including payroll, sales, and use tax filings.
• Ability to manage priorities independently, solve problems proactively, and adapt in a hands-on setting.
• Prior experience leading or mentoring accounting team members such as accounts payable and accounts receivable staff.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to improve processes and maintain accurate records.
• Proficiency with accounting systems and related tools, including document scanning or digital recordkeeping practices.
Robert Half logo

About Robert Half

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 1948, Robert Half pioneered the idea of professional talent solutions to connect opportunities at great companies with highly skilled job seekers. As business needs changed, we evolved to offer specialized talent solutions for finance and accounting, technology, administrative and customer support, creative and marketing, and legal fields. In 2002, we introduced our subsidiary, Protiviti, a global independent risk consulting and internal audit service, to support companies as they faced more strategic business challenges.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Ramon, CA, US

Year founded

1948

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