Top 10 Tech Companies to Work for in Des Moines in 2024

By Chevas Balloun

Last Updated: December 5th 2024

Skyline of Des Moines, Iowa showcasing top tech companies headquarters.

Too Long; Didn't Read:

Discover the top 10 tech companies in Des Moines to work for in 2024. Des Moines’ tech sector grew 18% from 2018-2023, outpacing the national average. Key companies include Workiva, Dwolla, and Pillar Technology, offering innovative projects, competitive benefits, and a great work-life balance. Choosing the right company impacts your career growth and satisfaction.

Looking for the latest updates? Check out the 2025 version of this article here.

Des Moines might not be the first spot that pops into your mind when you think of tech hotspots, but this lively Iowa capital is quickly becoming a prime destination for techies.

According to a recent study, the number of tech gigs in Des Moines grew by a whopping 18% from 2018 to 2023, outpacing the national average.

With a chill cost of living and a ton of leading companies, Des Moines offers a sweet environment for launching or leveling up your tech career.

Picking the right company is key for your professional growth and job satisfaction.

This blog post will be your guide to the top 10 tech companies to work for in Des Moines in 2024, based on factors like:

  • Company culture and values
  • Employee benefits and career development opportunities
  • Innovative projects and industry impact

From cutting-edge fintech firms to software solutions providers that are changing the game, Des Moines is home to a diverse range of tech powerhouses.

Get ready to explore the city's thriving tech landscape and find your dream job!

Table of Contents

  • Methodology for Selection
  • Workiva: A Leader in SaaS Solutions
  • Dwolla: Innovators in Online Payments
  • Pillar Technology: Agile Solutions Provider
  • Principal Financial Group: Tech within Finance
  • Berkley Technology Services: Insurance Tech
  • Sammons Financial Group: Fintech Focused
  • Source Allies: Consultancy Excellence
  • Shazam: Pioneer in Payments and Risk Management
  • LightEdge Solutions: Data Centers and Cloud Services
  • Kingland Systems: Data & Analytics Services
  • Conclusion: Best Tech Companies to Work for in Des Moines
  • Frequently Asked Questions

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Methodology for Selection

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To put together the Top 10 Tech Companies to Work for in Des Moines in 2024, we had to be super thorough. We analyzed a ton of factors like how much cash these companies are making, how happy their employees are, their growth potential, workplace vibes, and cutting-edge tech.

We dug deep into legit sources like Forbes' Best Employers list, Glassdoor reviews, and Iowa's own Workforce Development data to evaluate each company.

Our ranking process was a multi-step hustle:

  1. Identified Des Moines-based tech companies that are killing it locally.
  2. Checked out employee reviews and ratings on sites like Glassdoor and Indeed, zeroing in on work-life balance, pay, and career growth opportunities.
  3. Looked at financials like revenue growth, profits, and market share to gauge their long-term stability and growth potential.
  4. Evaluated their drive for innovation, cutting-edge tech advancements, and industry leadership through awards, patents, and thought leadership initiatives.
  5. Considered workplace culture, employee perks, diversity and inclusion efforts, and community involvement programs.

The final selection was a weighted average of all these criteria, giving us a well-rounded view of each company's appeal as an employer.

Here's a breakdown of the key evaluation metrics we used:

Criteria Weight
Employee Satisfaction 30%
Company Financials 25%
Innovation & Technology 20%
Workplace Culture 15%
Community Impact 10%

By following this comprehensive process, we aimed to give you a data-driven, on-point assessment of the top tech companies in Des Moines, helping you make informed career moves.

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Workiva: A Leader in SaaS Solutions

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Check this out - Workiva is an absolute beast in the cloud game! These guys are all about making life easier for businesses by streamlining complex data and reporting processes.

They've been disrupting the scene since 2008, and their headquarters is right here in Ames, Iowa. Their mission? To revolutionize how companies handle compliance, financial reporting, and business operations.

Sounds like a tall order, but Workiva delivers with their killer Wdesk platform. This bad boy integrates data seamlessly, manages documents like a boss, and keeps everything in line with regulations.

Major players like Walmart, McDonald's, and Cisco have all teamed up with Workiva, so you know they're legit. Even Marriott International relies on their solutions to crank out over 300 SEC reports annually, talk about efficiency! But it's not just about the tech - Workiva's co-founder and former CEO David Davis has been a driving force behind their success, championing transparency and sustainability. Workiva knows how to treat their crew right.

Their employees rave about the collaborative vibes, work-life balance, and opportunities to level up. Competitive benefits and a diverse, inclusive environment? Sign me up! It's no wonder they've been named a Top Workplace by the Des Moines Register for multiple years running.

These guys are definitely ones to watch in the SaaS game!

Dwolla: Innovators in Online Payments

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Check out Dwolla! This fintech OG has been killing the online payments game since 2008 when Ben Milne founded it.

They're all about making digital money transfers wicked simple and affordable. Their slick API lets businesses easily integrate payment processing into their apps, enabling real-time fund transfers across the US. But it's not just about the tech.

Dwolla's got some sweet offerings too:

  • Open Banking Services: Dwolla's pre-integrated with major open banking providers, making it a breeze to verify accounts, check balances, and fight fraud.
  • Digital Wallet: Initiate faster transactions by holding funds in Dwolla's digital wallet.
  • Webhooks and Correlation IDs: Stay in the loop with real-time notifications and easily track transactions.

According to Finovate, Dwolla started as a direct-to-consumer platform but pivoted to focus on creating dope payment APIs for businesses.

And they're moving tens of billions annually! Employees rave about the awesome culture, with one saying,

"The people at Dwolla are truly amazing and make you feel like a part of the family."

Flexible work, growth opportunities, and a diverse, inclusive vibe? Count me in, says David Perez!

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Pillar Technology: Agile Solutions Provider

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Alright check this out, Pillar Technology is legit! These guys have been crushing it since '97, providing top-notch agile software solutions and guiding companies through the digital revolution.

Their whole vibe is about empowering businesses with cutting-edge tech and fostering a culture that lets creativity flow freely. Imagine working someplace where your ideas are valued and you can truly grow, that's the Pillar experience.

But it's not just talk, they've got the receipts to back it up.

Accenture scooped them up in 2018 to bolster their Industry X.0 capabilities, recognizing Pillar's skills in developing smart, connected products like autonomous vehicles.

And their client roster reads like a who's who of corporate giants – we're talking Fortune 500 companies and major players across finance, healthcare, retail, you name it.

Just take a peek at some of their recent projects in 2024: Wells Fargo's slick mobile banking app powered by AI? That's Pillar's handiwork.

Pfizer's secure cloud platform for streamlining clinical trials? Yep, they built that too. And Walmart's AI-driven logistics system optimizing their supply chain? You guessed it, Pillar knocked that one out of the park as well.

These guys are clearly at the top of their game.

Principal Financial Group: Tech within Finance

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Principal Financial Group has been achieving success since way back in 1879, and now they're a global investment management leader.

With over 18,000 employees and an impressive $818.2 billion in assets under management (as of June 2022), they've fully embraced tech to transform the finance industry.

Their digital solutions blend seamlessly with traditional financial services, giving clients a complete package of innovative products and services.

These professionals are at the cutting edge of tech innovation, developing advanced data analytics platforms and AI-driven investment strategies that are remarkable.

Their investment models use machine learning algorithms to analyze massive datasets, spotting market trends and optimizing portfolio performance with expertise.

Principal has also pioneered the use of robotic process automation (RPA) to streamline back-office operations, making everything more efficient and reducing costs with proficiency.

Principal isn't just about work, work, work.

They've got their employees' backs with an impressive benefits package and a work culture that'll make you want to join the team.

Employees get:

  • Competitive compensation: Salaries and bonuses that'll make your wallet smile.
  • Health and wellness programs: Access to fitness facilities, mental health resources, and wellness initiatives to keep you feeling your best.
  • Learning and development opportunities: Numerous training programs, tuition reimbursement, and professional development resources to enhance your skills.
  • Flexible work arrangements: Remote work options, flexible schedules, and a solid work-life balance that'll keep you balanced.

Principal knows how to foster an inclusive and collaborative environment, encouraging innovation and employee engagement.

As one employee put it on Glassdoor,

"The company culture is fantastic, with a focus on diversity, inclusion, and work-life balance."

It sounds like an excellent opportunity!

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And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

Berkley Technology Services: Insurance Tech

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Alright, let's talk about Berkley Technology Services - these guys are seriously killing it in the insurance tech game.

Founded back in 2001, they've been providing top-notch IT solutions to W.R. Berkley Corporation and its companies for over two decades now.

With offices worldwide and a team of over 500 employees, they're definitely a major player.

What sets them apart is their commitment to delivering cutting-edge software applications that boost productivity and profits.

They're constantly upgrading their systems, adding fresh features to help insurance companies stay ahead of the curve. From developing innovative tech to providing stellar operational support, these guys have got it covered.

But it's not just about the tech - Berkley Technology Services is also a pretty awesome place to work.

They offer a laid-back environment with perks like casual dress code, indoor recreational areas, and even fun competitions throughout the year. And let's not forget the solid benefits package, including health insurance, 401(k) with profit sharing, and opportunities for professional growth.

Current and former employees rave about the friendly atmosphere and work-life balance.

Whether you're a software developer, business analyst, or IT specialist, Berkley Technology Services could be the perfect fit.

They're constantly expanding and seeking talented individuals to join their dynamic team. So if you're looking for a company that values innovation, collaboration, and employee satisfaction, definitely give them a look.

Sammons Financial Group: Fintech Focused

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Sammons Financial Group has been a major player in the finance game since 1886, offering top-notch insurance products across the country.

But they're not just resting on their laurels – they've been investing heavily in fintech to level up their digital capabilities and give their agents and customers a truly next-level experience.

One of their biggest moves has been implementing a brand-spanking-new policy admin system for their life division, which is a game-changer for streamlining processes and providing seamless digital services.

And that's just the start – they've got big plans to keep improving the agent and customer journey with more cutting-edge tech solutions.

But it's not just about the tech – Sammons Financial Group is also killing it when it comes to being an awesome place to work.

They offer competitive salaries, killer benefits (health insurance, paid time off, retirement plans, and more), and plenty of opportunities for professional growth and development.

Plus, they prioritize fostering a positive, collaborative culture where work-life balance is valued. As one employee put it,

"Sammons Financial Group truly values its employees and provides ample opportunities for growth and advancement within the company."

With their focus on fintech innovation and commitment to their staff, Sammons Financial Group is a top destination for tech talent in Des Moines.

Source Allies: Consultancy Excellence

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Source Allies is straight-up killing it in the tech consultancy game! These dudes are like a one-stop shop for all your software development, cloud migration, cybersecurity, and digital transformation needs.

Big shots like Principal Financial Group, Nationwide Insurance, and Kum & Go have been rocking with their innovative solutions, so you know they're legit.

In 2024, these guys were on fire! They helped Workiva make the switch to a cloud-native architecture, making their SaaS offerings scalable AF and secure as hell.

And that's not all, they also teamed up with Dwolla to revamp their online payment platform, adding dope new tech for a seamless user experience.

Check out some of their other massive wins:

  • Cybersecurity: Built a robust cybersecurity framework for Shazam, locking down their systems tighter than Fort Knox.
  • Productivity: Streamlined Pillar Technology's agile development processes, making them more productive than a swarm of bees.
  • Cloud Infrastructure: Set up a scalable cloud infrastructure for LightEdge Solutions, ensuring their data center operations run smoother than butter.

Their "Allies Academy" program hooks teammates up with certifications, workshops, and mentors to keep their skills sharper than a samurai sword.

As one of their senior consultants, Matthew Harris, put it,

"At Source Allies, we empower our people to reach their full potential, enabling them to deliver exceptional value to our clients."

Sounds like a win-win to me!

Shazam: Pioneer in Payments and Risk Management

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Check this out! Shazam is a wicked cool company based right here in Des Moines, Iowa. Can you believe they've been around since 1976? Talk about OGs in the game! These guys were the first to ever launch an integrated point-of-sale pilot program back in '81.

Straight up pioneers.

But that's not all. Shazam is like a one-stop shop for all things payment processing and risk management. They've got debit card processing, fraud detection, compliance solutions - you name it.

And they don't answer to any shareholders, so they can just keep reinvesting in dope new technologies to stay ahead of the curve.

From what I've heard, working at Shazam is an absolute vibe.

Employees rave about the sweet benefits, opportunities for growth, and that collaborative, innovative workplace culture. One software engineer even said,

"Shazam has a fantastic work-life balance and truly cares about its employees' well-being."

So if you're looking to get your career poppin' in the fintech world, keep an eye on Shazam.

With their trailblazing history and forward-thinking approach, they're definitely one of the coolest tech companies to work for in Des Moines right now.

LightEdge Solutions: Data Centers and Cloud Services

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LightEdge Solutions has been a major player in the data center and cloud game since '96. With seven badass facilities dotted across the Midwest, these are killing it when it comes to performance, security, and scalability for businesses.

Their lineup covers the full spectrum - colocation, cloud computing, disaster recovery, managed services, you name it.

What sets LightEdge apart is their relentless drive for innovation and making customers stoked.

Their data centers are built like fortresses, ticking all the boxes for uptime, redundancy, and top-notch physical security. With a 100% uptime record, you can bet your bottom dollar that mission-critical apps and data storage are in safe hands.

And let's talk about their cloud services, which are flexing hard with cutting-edge tech like VMware, AWS, and Azure.

These empower businesses to adapt like chameleons to market changes while squeezing every penny out of their IT investments. Talk about smart spending!

  • Elite data centers: Carrier-neutral connectivity, redundancy out the wazoo, and security protocols tighter than a drum.
  • Cloud solutions on steroids: Public, private, hybrid - you get the full monty for seamless integration.
  • Managed services: 24/7 monitoring, patching, performance optimization - they've got your back.

LightEdge employees are singing their praises, gushing about the "collaborative and supportive work environment" and "ample opportunities for professional growth." With a solid emphasis on work-life balance and a positive corporate culture, LightEdge has cemented itself as the place to be for techies in Des Moines.

Kingland Systems: Data & Analytics Services

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Kingland Systems has been killing it in the data game since '92! These guys are all about unlocking the true potential of your data and helping companies make smarter moves.

Their expertise spans data management, business intelligence, data governance, and next-level analytics that will blow your mind. They're like the tech wizards of Des Moines, constantly pushing boundaries and delivering game-changing solutions.

But it's not just about the tech.

Kingland Systems understands that their crew is the real MVP. They've built a culture where innovation thrives, and personal growth is a top priority. Employees rave about the

"excellent opportunities for career advancement, competitive pay, and a work environment that actually values that work-life balance."

Can you believe it? A tech company that gets it! With top-notch training programs, they're equipping their team to stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving world of data and analytics.

Conclusion: Best Tech Companies to Work for in Des Moines

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The tech scene in Des Moines is seriously on fire, and it's about to get even hotter in 2024. You know companies like John Deere and PwC are already killing it here, but there are some killer startups you need to keep an eye on too.

Companies like Pitchly are shaking things up with their data enablement tools, and they're just the tip of the iceberg. If you're looking to score a sweet gig as a Software Engineer or any other high-paying tech role, Des Moines is the place to be.

The job market is booming, with tech roles expected to grow by 8.9% by 2026, and Des Moines ranked 5th for tech job growth in mid-sized metro areas last year.

Plus, the cost of living here is way lower than in other major tech hubs, so your paycheck goes further. Just check out this guide on landing a tech job in Des Moines in 2024 to stay ahead of the game.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Why is Des Moines becoming a prime destination for tech professionals?

Des Moines offers a rapidly growing tech job market, with an 18% increase in tech gigs from 2018 to 2023, surpassing the national average. Combined with a lower cost of living and leading tech companies, it provides an ideal environment for tech professionals.

What methodology was used to select the top tech companies in Des Moines for 2024?

The selection process included analyzing factors such as employee satisfaction, company financials, innovation and technology, workplace culture, and community impact. Data was gathered from sources like Forbes' Best Employers list and various industry ratings.

What makes Workiva a top tech company in Des Moines?

Workiva excels in providing innovative SaaS solutions, particularly in cloud-based compliance and financial reporting. They are recognized for a collaborative work culture, comprehensive employee benefits, and have been named a Top Workplace by the Des Moines Register.

How does Dwolla lead in the online payments industry?

Dwolla specializes in simplifying digital money transfers with their efficient payment APIs. They offer services like Open Banking, digital wallets, and real-time transaction tracking. Employees appreciate the strong corporate culture and growth opportunities.

What notable achievements does Pillar Technology have?

Pillar Technology provides agile software solutions and has contributed to major projects such as Wells Fargo's AI-powered mobile banking app and Pfizer's secure cloud platform for clinical trials. They are known for fostering a creative and growth-oriented work culture.

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Chevas Balloun

Director of Marketing & Brand

Chevas has spent over 15 years inventing brands, designing interfaces, and driving engagement for companies like Microsoft. He is a practiced writer, a productivity app inventor, board game designer, and has a builder-mentality drives entrepreneurship.