Data Scientist 1

Data Scientist 1

Salary

$79,601.60 - $122,428.80 Annually

Location

Des Moines - 50319 - Polk County, IA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

26-03360

Agency

625 Iowa Department of Revenue

Division

Internal Services Division

Opening Date

06/10/2026

Closing Date

6/25/2026 11:59 PM Central

LinkedIn Tag

#LI-POST

Point of Contact

idrrecruitment@iowa.gov

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Job Description

The Iowa Department of Revenue's Internal Services Division is seeking a Data Scientist 1 to join the Data Analytics Bureau. The Internal Services Division plays a crucial role in ensuring the Departments day-to-day operations run smoothly, efficiently, and effectively. Its responsibilities span many areas, from the safeguarding of confidential taxpayer data, management of the GovConnectIowa Program, integration of technology solutions with business objectives, human resources, data analytics, and business continuity activities. The dedicated staff of this division focus on elevating both the internal and external customer experience. Throughout the year, the division coordinates education and outreach initiatives, fostering connection with our customers.

The Data Scientist will harness the Department's incredible wealth of data to develop analytical insights, drive positive organizational value and outcomes to encourage the adoption of data driven decisions that will lead to improvements for the overall public good and IDR's operations and performance.

In this position you will be responsible for:

• Working with stakeholders to identify opportunities to enhance the Department's performance by using data-driven tools to obtain, measure and analyze results.
• Conducting data analysis to uncover patterns, trends, and anomalies using statistical techniques (e.g. Heat Maps, Predicator Screening, Regression models, Time Series Models, Decision Trees Analysis, and Survey & Text Analysis).
• Overseeing the identification, research, and investigation of opportunities for both leveraging data and adopting/applying new technology (e.g. artificial intelligence) to drive business growth, efficiency, and innovation.
• Researching and implementing techniques and tools in machine learning and artificial intelligence to make data analysis more efficient.
• Managing, implementing and maintaining the Analytical and Artificial Intelligence (AI) platforms used by the Department.
• Spearheading the Department's usage of the Analytical and Artificial Intelligence platforms through dashboard development and maintenance of the platforms. This includes the technical support to improve the design of the models to run more efficiently.
• Developing, refining, and optimizing AI-generated text prompts that are fed into AI platforms to ensure they are accurate, engaging, and relevant for various applications.
• Collaborating with different teams to improve the prompt generation process and overall AI system performance.
• Determining the data needed for key performance indicators (KPIs), metrics, and dashboards, gather the data from multiple sources, manipulate in preparation for analysis and present data findings and recommendations to stakeholders.
• Assisting in the building and design of statistical models (i.e. What-if, Diagnostic, financial models) to answer business questions.

Preference will be given to candidates with experience in the following:

• Knowledge and experience using SAS Viya, Excel, SQL, and other analytical tools to respond to data requests and to solve problems. This consists of writing relevant code or reviewing existing code to resolve programming and data issues. It involves calculating, organizing, and summarizing data for analysis.
• Experience creating advanced visualizations and dashboards that clearly and easily communicate complex findings while adhering to industry best practices. This is done via the use of tools such as Tableau, Power BI, SAS Visual Analytics, JMP, etc.
• Experience in the management and administration of Analytical and Artificial Intelligence platforms

Job Specific Competencies:

• Mathematical Reasoning - Choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
• Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
• Written Expression - Communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.

Employer Highlights:

The Iowa Department of Revenue is a well-respected employer. We are focused on providing excellent customer service, while offering a wonderful team atmosphere, work-life balance, free parking, and casual attire. We offer a flexible working environment and opportunities to work from home with the ability to work from anywhere in the State of Iowa as long as it is your primary residence.

We have a great total compensation package for all of our full-time employees, including:

• Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS)
• Retirement Investors Club (RIC)
• Flexible Working Environment- Work from Home Opportunities
• Health, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Vacation Leave
• Sick Leave
• Paid Holidays (9 days/year)
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Life Insurance
• Long-Term Disability Insurance

The mission of the Iowa Department of Revenue is to serve Iowans through the responsible collection and generation of revenue to support the public good. If you're looking for a career with an organization that values its employees and customers, you've come to the right place.

Applicants must live within the State of Iowa to qualify for this position.

This position will be required to come into the Hoover Building in Des Moines for meetings as needed.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without the need for employer sponsorship, now or in the future.

A background check, including a criminal history check, fingerprint and Iowa tax filing check, will be conducted on the final candidate.

Effective July 1st, 2025, all Department of Revenue staff and their household will not be able to play any Iowa Lottery games.

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 www.e-verify.gov

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Applicants must meet at least one of the following minimum requirements to qualify for positions in this job classification:

1) Seven years of full-time work experience in business/data/statistical analytics, economic research, or data science.

2) Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in business analytics, economics, data science, statistics, mathematics, management information systems, or industrial management, and experience equal to three years of full-time (as described in number one).

3) All of the following (a, b, and c):

a. One year of full-time work experience in business/data/statistical analytics, economic research, or data science; and

b. A total of four years of education and/or full-time experience (as described in part a), where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university coursework in business analytics, economics, data science, statistics, mathematics, management information systems, or industrial management equals one year of full-time experience; and

c. A total of two years of graduate-level education and/or full-time experience (as described in part a), where twenty-four semester hours of accredited graduate college or university coursework in business analytics, economics, data science, statistics, mathematics, management information systems, or industrial management equals one year of full-time experience.

4) All of the following (a, b, and c):

a. One year of full-time work experience business/data/statistical analytics, economic research, or data science; and

b. A total of four years of education and/or full-time experience (as described in part a), where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university coursework in any field equals one year of full-time experience; and

c. Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Master's degree in business analytics, economics, data science, statistics, mathematics, management information systems, or industrial management.

5) All of the following (a, b, and c):

a. Three years of full-time work experience in business/data/statistical analytics, economic research, or data science; and

b. A total of four years of education and/or full-time experience (as described in part a), where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university coursework in any field equals one year of full-time experience; and

c. Possession of a professional certificate in data science, business analytics, or data analytics.

6) Current, continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes six months of full-time work as a Data Analyst 2.

For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description.

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 Total Compensation Calculator. 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. Click here to learn more about IPERS.

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? Click here to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!

01

Do you understand that the answers to all of the following questions must be truthful, honest, and accurate to the best of your ability? Please read all questions and answers thoroughly and make sure you understand them completely. Ensure the answers to your questions match the information filled out on your application and the attachments you have uploaded. If the answers to your questions are inconsistent with your application information or uploaded attachments, you will be given zero points for the question. Knowingly misrepresenting the facts when submitting any information related to an application, examination, certification, appeal, or any other facet of the selection process will result in your disqualification from this application and future employment with the state of Iowa.

• Yes - I understand and agree.
• No

02

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY

Have you filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq?

• No - I have NOT filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq
• Yes - I HAVE filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq

03

Do you have seven years of full-time work experience in business/data/statistical analytics, economic research, or data science?

• Yes
• No

04

Have you graduated from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in business analytics, economics, data science, statistics, mathematics, management information systems, or industrial management, AND have experience equal to three years of full-time work in business/data/statistical analytics, economic research, or data science?

• Yes
• No

05

Do you meet A, B and C: A. One year of full-time work experience in business/data/statistical analytics, economic research, or data science; and B. A total of four years of education and/or full-time experience in business/data/statistical analytics, economic research, or data science, where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university coursework in business analytics, economics, data science, statistics, mathematics, management information systems, or industrial management equals one year of full-time experience; and C. A total of two years of graduate-level education and/or full-time experience in business/data/statistical analytics, economic research, or data science, where twenty-four semester hours of accredited graduate college or university coursework in business analytics, economics, data science, statistics, mathematics, management information systems, or industrial management equals one year of full-time experience.

• I meet A, B and C
• I do not meet A, B and C

06

Do you meet A, B and C: A. One year of full-time work experience business/data/statistical analytics, economic research, or data science; and B. A total of four years of education and/or full-time experience in business/data/statistical analytics, economic research, or data science, where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university coursework in any field equals one year of full-time experience; and C. Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Master's degree in business analytics, economics, data science, statistics, mathematics, management information systems, or industrial management.

• I meet A, B and C
• I do not meet A, B and C

07

Do you meet A, B and C: A. Three years of full-time work experience in business/data/statistical analytics, economic research, or data science; and B. A total of four years of education and/or full-time experience in business/data/statistical analytics, economic research, or data science, where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university coursework in any field equals one year of full-time experience. C. Possession of a professional certificate in data science, business analytics, or data analytics.

• Yes - I meet A, B and C
• I do not meet A, B and C

08

Are you a current permanent State of Iowa employee? IF YES - Do you have current, continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes six months of full-time work as a Data Analyst 2?

• I am a current State of Iowa employee with current, continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes six months of full-time work as a Data Analyst 2
• I am not a current State of Iowa employee with current, continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes six months of full-time work as a Data Analyst 2

Required Question

Employer State of Iowa

Agency 625 Iowa Department of Revenue Address Hoover State Office Building, 4th Floor

1305 E Walnut St

Des Moines, Iowa, 50319

Website https://revenue.iowa.gov