Senior Financial Analyst / Budget & Policy Advisor
Department of Administrative Services, Des Moines, Iowa
The Iowa Department of Administrative Services is seeking a strategic, analytical, and solutions-focused professional to join our team in a high-impact financial leadership role.
This position plays a critical role in helping guide sound fiscal decisions across Iowa state government. You will perform advanced enterprise-wide financial analysis, budgeting, forecasting, policy review, and program evaluation that directly supports statewide operations and long-term planning.
If you enjoy solving complex problems, translating data into decisions, and influencing policy through strong financial insight, this is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in public service.
Why This Role Matters
Financial decisions shape how government serves Iowans. In this role, you will help leaders understand fiscal impacts, evaluate policy choices, forecast revenues, and improve how resources are managed statewide.
Your work will support major functions such as:
Statewide accounting and payroll operations
Annual financial reporting and compliance
Revenue forecasting and tax policy analysis
Legislative fiscal impact review
Strategic budgeting and resource planning
Continuous improvement of financial processes and procedures
What You’ll Do
Lead Financial Analysis & Strategic Planning
Conduct advanced financial, operational, and management analysis across enterprise functions
Evaluate programs, spending trends, and resource use to support decision-making
Develop recommendations that improve efficiency, accountability, and performance
Assist with statewide budgeting initiatives and long-range fiscal planning
Support Revenue Forecasting & Policy Decisions
Build and maintain forecasting models for receipts, refunds, and tax credits
Analyze trends in Iowa’s economy, national markets, and tax law changes
Support the Revenue Estimating Conference through data-driven projections
Prepare fiscal notes, estimates, and impact assessments for proposed legislation
Advise Leaders & Strengthen Operations
Partner with agency administrators and financial leaders on fiscal challenges
Interpret statewide accounting and financial policies, regulations, and procedures
Provide guidance related to claims processing and statewide fiscal operations
Prepare reports and recommendations for executive leadership
Improve Systems & Processes
Conduct studies of current methods, workflows, and procedures
Identify opportunities to modernize practices and improve outcomes
Present findings and actionable recommendations clearly and effectively
What We’re Looking For
Experience in budgeting, finance, accounting, economics, or fiscal policy
Strong analytical and forecasting skills
Ability to interpret legislation, regulations, and financial impacts
Advanced Excel, reporting, and data analysis capabilities
Experience preparing executive-level reports or recommendations
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
Core Strengths for Success
Strategic thinking and sound judgment
Clear written and verbal communication
Critical thinking and complex problem solving
Attention to detail and accuracy
Collaboration and stakeholder partnership
Ability to explain technical information in practical terms
Why Join DAS?
At the Iowa Department of Administrative Services, your work supports the systems that help Iowa state government operate effectively. This role offers a unique chance to influence enterprise-wide decisions while building a meaningful career in public service.
Benefits of Working for the State of Iowa
Paid Time Off
Vacation leave with rollover accruals
Sick leave with no accrual cap
9 paid holidays each year
Health & Wellness
Competitive medical, dental, and vision plans
Flexible Spending Accounts (medical and dependent care)
Employee Assistance Program
Financial Security
IPERS retirement benefits
Deferred compensation plan options
Employer-paid life insurance
Additional Perks
Employee discount programs
Stable employment with meaningful mission-driven work
Career growth opportunities across Iowa state government
To learn more about the benefits of working with the State of Iowa, visit ourbenefits webpage.
Make an Impact
If you’re ready to use your financial expertise to help shape policy, strengthen government operations, and serve Iowans, we encourage you to apply.
E-Verify and Right to Work
The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federalRight to Worklaws, which protect employees’ rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit www.e-verify.gov.