Job Description

The Department of Administrative Services- Human Resources Enterprise (DAS-HRE) is seeking a Human Resources Associate (HRA) to join our team in Des Moines, Iowa.
If you have a passion for human resources, enjoy problem-solving, and take pride in delivering excellent customer service, this is an opportunity to support multiple state agencies and play a key role in the employee experience from hire to retirement.
As a Human Resources Associate, you will provide comprehensive HR support across several state agencies, serving as a trusted liaison between agency leadership and DAS-HRE. This role blends customer service, compliance, payroll, benefits, and recruiting functions, making it ideal for someone who enjoys variety and meaningful impact in their daily work.
Key Responsibilities
Recruitment & Hiring Support

• Develop and post vacancy announcements in the applicant tracking system
• Guide agencies through required hiring steps and timelines
• Ensure policy reviews and documentation are completed accurately and on time

Personnel & Payroll Administration

• Process personnel actions in Workday, including hires, promotions, pay changes, reclassifications, and reinstatements
• Review and approve employee timesheets
• Assist employees and supervisors with payroll questions and system navigation
• Verify preliminary and final payroll to ensure accuracy and timeliness

Benefits & Employee Support

• Coordinate with DAS-HRE benefits units on health, dental, life insurance, flexible spending, deferred compensation, and other programs
• Support employees during annual enrollment and life-event changes
• Provide clear guidance on benefit options and updates

Compliance & Records Management

• Maintain secure personnel, medical, and hiring files
• Track workers' compensation injuries and OSHA-reportable incidents
• Provide managers with key employment data such as leave balances, salary review dates, FMLA status, and leave-without-pay timelines

Why This Role Matters:
This position sits at the center of the employee lifecycle, ensuring people are paid accurately, receive the benefits they depend on, and experience a smooth hiring and onboarding process. Your work directly supports Iowa's public workforce and the agencies that serve communities across the state.
If you're organized, detail-oriented, and motivated by helping others succeed, we encourage you to apply and grow your HR career with DAS-HRE.
Benefits:
At the State of Iowa, we are committed to your well-being. As a valued team member, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Paid Time Off: Enjoy vacation with accruals that rollover on a yearly basis, sick leave with no limits on accrual and 9 paid holidays per year.
• Great Benefits: Excellent Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance Options.
• Retirement Plan: IPERS Retirement package and an option for a deferred compensation plan.
• Flexibility: Flexible Spending Accounts (medical and dependent care).
• Life Insurance: Free Life Insurance.
• Support: Employee Assistance Programs and Employee Discount Programs.

To learn more about the benefits of working with the State of Iowa, visit our
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 federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit .
Minimum Qualification Requirements
Applicants must meet at least one of the following minimum requirements to qualify for positions in this job classification:
1) Four years of full-time work experience in administrative support, at least two years of which were in a human-resources-related program area.
2) All of the following (a, b, and c):
a. One year of full-time work experience in administrative support in a human-resources-related program area; and
b. A total of one year of education and/or full-time experience in administrative support in a human-resources-related program area, where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university course work in any field equals one year of full-time experience.
c. A total of two years of education and/or full-time experience in general administrative support, where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university course work in any field equals one year of full-time experience.
3) Current, continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes experience equal to 12 months of full-time work as a Human Resources Technical Assistant, Human Resources Technical Specialist, Secretary (any level), or Administrative Assistant (any level).
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Why Choose the State of Iowa?
At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset - our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.
Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:
Competitive Compensation:
Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.
Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendly . Gain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.
Health and Wellness:
Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.
Retirement Planning:
We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind. .
Paid Time Off:
Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.
Professional Development:
Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP):
We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.
Diversity and Inclusion:
Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.
Join Us - Elevate Your Career:
Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa? to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!

Skills Required