Most common jobs in Des Moines
Written by:
January 11, 2021
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Most common jobs in Des Moines
The 10 largest occupations in America employ 30.5 million workers, representing 21% of all workers. Keeping America’s economy moving would be impossible without office workers, package handlers, food prep workers, and truck drivers. And what would the sick do without the millions of hospital workers, nurses, and home health aides?
Stacker compiled a list of the most common jobs in Des Moines using data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Jobs are ranked by total employment as of May 2019. While much has changed during the coronavirus pandemic, the jobs featured here give a holistic view at the most popular industries in your area and how many jobs are supported.
Keep reading to see which jobs in Des Moines are the most common.
1 / 50
Canva
#49. Landscaping and groundskeeping workers
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 1,680
- Employment per 1,000: 4.531 (27% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $33,210
National
- Employment: 912,660 (#33 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $32,360
- Entry level education requirements: No formal educational credential
- Employment: 1,680
- Employment per 1,000: 4.531 (27% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $33,210
National
- Employment: 912,660 (#33 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $32,360
- Entry level education requirements: No formal educational credential
2 / 50
Shift Drive // Shutterstock
#49. Computer user support specialists
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 1,680
- Employment per 1,000: 4.509 (2% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $53,830
National
- Employment: 647,330 (#47 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $56,550
- Entry level education requirements: Some college, no degree
- Employment: 1,680
- Employment per 1,000: 4.509 (2% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $53,830
National
- Employment: 647,330 (#47 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $56,550
- Entry level education requirements: Some college, no degree
3 / 50
Rawpixel.com // Shutterstock
#49. Maids and housekeeping cleaners
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 1,680
- Employment per 1,000: 4.513 (28% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $25,090
National
- Employment: 926,960 (#31 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $26,810
- Entry level education requirements: No formal educational credential
- Employment: 1,680
- Employment per 1,000: 4.513 (28% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $25,090
National
- Employment: 926,960 (#31 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $26,810
- Entry level education requirements: No formal educational credential
4 / 50
comzeal images // Shutterstock
#47. Loan officers
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 1,700
- Employment per 1,000: 4.563 (117% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $66,760
National
- Employment: 308,370 (#104 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $76,200
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Employment: 1,700
- Employment per 1,000: 4.563 (117% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $66,760
National
- Employment: 308,370 (#104 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $76,200
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
5 / 50
Hulton Archive // Getty Images
#46. Electricians
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 1,740
- Employment per 1,000: 4.668 (0% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $54,400
National
- Employment: 688,620 (#41 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $60,370
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Employment: 1,740
- Employment per 1,000: 4.668 (0% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $54,400
National
- Employment: 688,620 (#41 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $60,370
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
6 / 50
CHRISTOF STACHE // Getty Images
#45. Preschool teachers, except special education
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 1,820
- Employment per 1,000: 4.904 (67% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $26,410
National
- Employment: 431,350 (#72 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $34,650
- Entry level education requirements: Associate’s degree
- Employment: 1,820
- Employment per 1,000: 4.904 (67% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $26,410
National
- Employment: 431,350 (#72 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $34,650
- Entry level education requirements: Associate’s degree
7 / 50
B Brown // Shutterstock
#44. Secondary school teachers, except special and career/technical education
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 1,830
- Employment per 1,000: 4.92 (30% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $60,470
National
- Employment: 1,035,850 (#28 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $65,930
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Employment: 1,830
- Employment per 1,000: 4.92 (30% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $60,470
National
- Employment: 1,035,850 (#28 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $65,930
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
8 / 50
Rido // Shutterstock
#42 (tie). Human resources specialists
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 1,920
- Employment per 1,000: 5.168 (20% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $65,940
National
- Employment: 633,040 (#50 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $67,760
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Employment: 1,920
- Employment per 1,000: 5.168 (20% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $65,940
National
- Employment: 633,040 (#50 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $67,760
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
9 / 50
Daniel Lee // Flickr
#42 (tie). Cooks, fast food
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 1,920
- Employment per 1,000: 5.176 (44% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $25,560
National
- Employment: 527,220 (#61 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $23,530
- Entry level education requirements: No formal educational credential
- Employment: 1,920
- Employment per 1,000: 5.176 (44% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $25,560
National
- Employment: 527,220 (#61 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $23,530
- Entry level education requirements: No formal educational credential
10 / 50
Krakenimages.com // Shutterstock
#41. Childcare workers
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 1,950
- Employment per 1,000: 5.24 (37% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $24,480
National
- Employment: 561,520 (#59 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $25,510
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Employment: 1,950
- Employment per 1,000: 5.24 (37% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $24,480
National
- Employment: 561,520 (#59 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $25,510
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
11 / 50
Lopolo // Shutterstock
#40. Middle school teachers, except special and career/technical education
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 1,980
- Employment per 1,000: 5.329 (26% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $55,790
National
- Employment: 622,330 (#54 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $63,550
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Employment: 1,980
- Employment per 1,000: 5.329 (26% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $55,790
National
- Employment: 622,330 (#54 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $63,550
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
12 / 50
nullplus // Shutterstock
#38 (tie). Light truck drivers
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 2,060
- Employment per 1,000: 5.54 (12% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $36,520
National
- Employment: 923,050 (#32 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $38,520
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Employment: 2,060
- Employment per 1,000: 5.54 (12% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $36,520
National
- Employment: 923,050 (#32 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $38,520
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
13 / 50
Pressmaster // Shutterstock
#38 (tie). Market research analysts and marketing specialists
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 2,060
- Employment per 1,000: 5.531 (20% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $74,020
National
- Employment: 678,500 (#42 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $71,570
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Employment: 2,060
- Employment per 1,000: 5.531 (20% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $74,020
National
- Employment: 678,500 (#42 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $71,570
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
14 / 50
Education Images // Getty Images
#37. Substitute teachers, short-term
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 2,070
- Employment per 1,000: 5.565 (39% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $32,630
National
- Employment: 587,120 (#57 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $32,460
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Employment: 2,070
- Employment per 1,000: 5.565 (39% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $32,630
National
- Employment: 587,120 (#57 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $32,460
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
15 / 50
Monkey Business Images // Shutterstock
#36. Claims adjusters, examiners, and investigators
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 2,100
- Employment per 1,000: 5.636 (187% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $66,480
National
- Employment: 287,960 (#112 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $68,940
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Employment: 2,100
- Employment per 1,000: 5.636 (187% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $66,480
National
- Employment: 287,960 (#112 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $68,940
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
16 / 50
Tim Goode/PA Images // Getty Images
#35. Sales representatives of services, except advertising, insurance, financial services, and travel
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 2,130
- Employment per 1,000: 5.722 (19% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $71,880
National
- Employment: 1,039,670 (#27 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $66,760
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Employment: 2,130
- Employment per 1,000: 5.722 (19% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $71,880
National
- Employment: 1,039,670 (#27 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $66,760
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
17 / 50
New Africa // Shutterstock
#34. Receptionists and information clerks
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 2,280
- Employment per 1,000: 6.137 (15% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $32,400
National
- Employment: 1,057,370 (#26 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $31,250
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Employment: 2,280
- Employment per 1,000: 6.137 (15% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $32,400
National
- Employment: 1,057,370 (#26 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $31,250
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
18 / 50
OLIVIER DOULIERY // Getty Images
#33. First-line supervisors of food preparation and serving workers
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 2,340
- Employment per 1,000: 6.295 (9% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $37,020
National
- Employment: 1,011,100 (#30 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $36,960
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Employment: 2,340
- Employment per 1,000: 6.295 (9% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $37,020
National
- Employment: 1,011,100 (#30 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $36,960
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
19 / 50
Crew // Wikimedia Commons
#32. Bartenders
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 2,440
- Employment per 1,000: 6.563 (49% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $22,860
National
- Employment: 646,850 (#48 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $28,000
- Entry level education requirements: No formal educational credential
- Employment: 2,440
- Employment per 1,000: 6.563 (49% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $22,860
National
- Employment: 646,850 (#48 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $28,000
- Entry level education requirements: No formal educational credential
20 / 50
Pixabay
#31. Construction laborers
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 2,620
- Employment per 1,000: 7.048 (1% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $38,830
National
- Employment: 1,020,350 (#29 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $41,730
- Entry level education requirements: No formal educational credential
- Employment: 2,620
- Employment per 1,000: 7.048 (1% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $38,830
National
- Employment: 1,020,350 (#29 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $41,730
- Entry level education requirements: No formal educational credential
21 / 50
Rob Kim // Getty Images
#30. First-line supervisors of retail sales workers
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 2,670
- Employment per 1,000: 7.186 (10% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $42,370
National
- Employment: 1,171,900 (#24 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $45,830
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Employment: 2,670
- Employment per 1,000: 7.186 (10% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $42,370
National
- Employment: 1,171,900 (#24 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $45,830
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
22 / 50
Monkey Business Images // Shutterstock
#29. Insurance sales agents
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 2,720
- Employment per 1,000: 7.326 (162% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $76,880
National
- Employment: 410,050 (#78 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $67,780
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Employment: 2,720
- Employment per 1,000: 7.326 (162% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $76,880
National
- Employment: 410,050 (#78 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $67,780
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
23 / 50
Pixabay
#27 (tie). Maintenance and repair workers, general
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 2,810
- Employment per 1,000: 7.573 (22% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $42,410
National
- Employment: 1,418,990 (#18 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $41,960
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Employment: 2,810
- Employment per 1,000: 7.573 (22% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $42,410
National
- Employment: 1,418,990 (#18 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $41,960
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
24 / 50
Jorge Royan // Wikimedia Commons
#27 (tie). Cooks, restaurant
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 2,810
- Employment per 1,000: 7.549 (21% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $28,960
National
- Employment: 1,401,890 (#20 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $28,700
- Entry level education requirements: No formal educational credential
- Employment: 2,810
- Employment per 1,000: 7.549 (21% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $28,960
National
- Employment: 1,401,890 (#20 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $28,700
- Entry level education requirements: No formal educational credential
25 / 50
Sean Rayford // Getty Images
#26. Security guards
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 2,920
- Employment per 1,000: 7.846 (2% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $33,980
National
- Employment: 1,126,370 (#25 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $33,030
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Employment: 2,920
- Employment per 1,000: 7.846 (2% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $33,980
National
- Employment: 1,126,370 (#25 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $33,030
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
26 / 50
Monkey Business Images // Shutterstock
#25. Insurance claims and policy processing clerks
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 2,940
- Employment per 1,000: 7.897 (351% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $44,410
National
- Employment: 257,000 (#120 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $43,280
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Employment: 2,940
- Employment per 1,000: 7.897 (351% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $44,410
National
- Employment: 257,000 (#120 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $43,280
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
27 / 50
fizkes // Shutterstock
#24. Management analysts
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 3,100
- Employment per 1,000: 8.35 (73% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $85,900
National
- Employment: 709,750 (#37 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $95,560
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Employment: 3,100
- Employment per 1,000: 8.35 (73% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $85,900
National
- Employment: 709,750 (#37 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $95,560
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
28 / 50
G-Stock Studio // Shutterstock
#23. Secretaries and administrative assistants, except legal, medical, and executive
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 3,390
- Employment per 1,000: 9.129 (34% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $40,760
National
- Employment: 2,038,340 (#12 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $39,180
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Employment: 3,390
- Employment per 1,000: 9.129 (34% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $40,760
National
- Employment: 2,038,340 (#12 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $39,180
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
29 / 50
Canva
#22. Financial managers
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 3,490
- Employment per 1,000: 9.377 (110% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $132,340
National
- Employment: 654,790 (#46 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $147,530
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Employment: 3,490
- Employment per 1,000: 9.377 (110% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $132,340
National
- Employment: 654,790 (#46 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $147,530
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
30 / 50
Canva
#21. Computer systems analysts
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 3,630
- Employment per 1,000: 9.76 (143% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $85,710
National
- Employment: 589,060 (#56 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $96,160
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Employment: 3,630
- Employment per 1,000: 9.76 (143% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $85,710
National
- Employment: 589,060 (#56 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $96,160
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
31 / 50
GaudiLab // Shutterstock
#20. First-line supervisors of office and administrative support workers
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 3,680
- Employment per 1,000: 9.901 (2% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $64,100
National
- Employment: 1,487,870 (#15 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $60,130
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Employment: 3,680
- Employment per 1,000: 9.901 (2% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $64,100
National
- Employment: 1,487,870 (#15 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $60,130
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
32 / 50
The Boston Globe // Getty Images
#19. Elementary school teachers, except special education
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 3,720
- Employment per 1,000: 9.999 (3% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $58,330
National
- Employment: 1,430,480 (#16 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $63,930
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Employment: 3,720
- Employment per 1,000: 9.999 (3% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $58,330
National
- Employment: 1,430,480 (#16 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $63,930
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
33 / 50
Stock Rocket // Shutterstock
#18. Sales representatives, wholesale and manufacturing, except technical and scientific products
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 3,960
- Employment per 1,000: 10.664 (16% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $76,260
National
- Employment: 1,344,530 (#22 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $71,110
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Employment: 3,960
- Employment per 1,000: 10.664 (16% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $76,260
National
- Employment: 1,344,530 (#22 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $71,110
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
34 / 50
The Boston Globe // Getty Images
#17. Stockers and order fillers
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 4,060
- Employment per 1,000: 10.913 (25% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $30,000
National
- Employment: 2,135,850 (#11 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $29,660
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Employment: 4,060
- Employment per 1,000: 10.913 (25% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $30,000
National
- Employment: 2,135,850 (#11 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $29,660
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
35 / 50
ImageFlow // Shutterstock
#16. Accountants and auditors
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 4,070
- Employment per 1,000: 10.958 (26% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $75,230
National
- Employment: 1,280,700 (#23 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $79,520
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Employment: 4,070
- Employment per 1,000: 10.958 (26% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $75,230
National
- Employment: 1,280,700 (#23 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $79,520
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
36 / 50
Paul.J.West // Shutterstock
#15. Teaching assistants, except postsecondary
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 4,260
- Employment per 1,000: 11.465 (25% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $26,380
National
- Employment: 1,346,910 (#21 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $29,640
- Entry level education requirements: Some college, no degree
- Employment: 4,260
- Employment per 1,000: 11.465 (25% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $26,380
National
- Employment: 1,346,910 (#21 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $29,640
- Entry level education requirements: Some college, no degree
37 / 50
GagliardiPhotography // Shutterstock
#14. Nursing assistants
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 4,290
- Employment per 1,000: 11.54 (19% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $32,250
National
- Employment: 1,419,920 (#17 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $30,720
- Entry level education requirements: Postsecondary nondegree award
- Employment: 4,290
- Employment per 1,000: 11.54 (19% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $32,250
National
- Employment: 1,419,920 (#17 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $30,720
- Entry level education requirements: Postsecondary nondegree award
38 / 50
Roman Samborskyi // Shutterstock
#13. Software developers and software quality assurance analysts and testers
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 4,490
- Employment per 1,000: 12.092 (26% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $96,640
National
- Employment: 1,406,870 (#19 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $111,620
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Employment: 4,490
- Employment per 1,000: 12.092 (26% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $96,640
National
- Employment: 1,406,870 (#19 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $111,620
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
39 / 50
Rawpixel.com // Shutterstock
#12. Bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 4,860
- Employment per 1,000: 13.064 (27% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $44,220
National
- Employment: 1,512,660 (#14 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $42,960
- Entry level education requirements: Some college, no degree
- Employment: 4,860
- Employment per 1,000: 13.064 (27% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $44,220
National
- Employment: 1,512,660 (#14 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $42,960
- Entry level education requirements: Some college, no degree
40 / 50
Unsplash
#11. Janitors and cleaners, except maids and housekeeping cleaners
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 5,720
- Employment per 1,000: 15.396 (5% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $28,380
National
- Employment: 2,145,450 (#10 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $30,010
- Entry level education requirements: No formal educational credential
- Employment: 5,720
- Employment per 1,000: 15.396 (5% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $28,380
National
- Employment: 2,145,450 (#10 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $30,010
- Entry level education requirements: No formal educational credential
41 / 50
Monkey Business Images // Shutterstock
#10. Waiters and waitresses
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 5,740
- Employment per 1,000: 15.453 (12% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $22,900
National
- Employment: 2,579,020 (#8 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $26,800
- Entry level education requirements: No formal educational credential
- Employment: 5,740
- Employment per 1,000: 15.453 (12% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $22,900
National
- Employment: 2,579,020 (#8 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $26,800
- Entry level education requirements: No formal educational credential
42 / 50
Pixabay
#9. General and operations managers
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 6,130
- Employment per 1,000: 16.489 (1% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $111,980
National
- Employment: 2,400,280 (#9 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $123,030
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Employment: 6,130
- Employment per 1,000: 16.489 (1% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $111,980
National
- Employment: 2,400,280 (#9 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $123,030
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
43 / 50
Pixabay
#8. Laborers and freight, stock, and material movers, hand
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 6,180
- Employment per 1,000: 16.635 (17% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $34,560
National
- Employment: 2,953,170 (#6 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $32,130
- Entry level education requirements: No formal educational credential
- Employment: 6,180
- Employment per 1,000: 16.635 (17% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $34,560
National
- Employment: 2,953,170 (#6 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $32,130
- Entry level education requirements: No formal educational credential
44 / 50
Ruslan Galiullin // Shutterstock
#7. Office clerks, general
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 7,010
- Employment per 1,000: 18.86 (6% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $36,810
National
- Employment: 2,956,060 (#5 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $36,360
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Employment: 7,010
- Employment per 1,000: 18.86 (6% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $36,810
National
- Employment: 2,956,060 (#5 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $36,360
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
45 / 50
Rawpixel.com // Shutterstock
#6. Registered nurses
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 7,280
- Employment per 1,000: 19.573 (4% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $62,790
National
- Employment: 2,982,280 (#4 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $77,460
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Employment: 7,280
- Employment per 1,000: 19.573 (4% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $62,790
National
- Employment: 2,982,280 (#4 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $77,460
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
46 / 50
Pixabay
#5. Heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 7,580
- Employment per 1,000: 20.381 (61% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $50,550
National
- Employment: 1,856,130 (#13 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $46,850
- Entry level education requirements: Postsecondary nondegree award
- Employment: 7,580
- Employment per 1,000: 20.381 (61% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $50,550
National
- Employment: 1,856,130 (#13 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $46,850
- Entry level education requirements: Postsecondary nondegree award
47 / 50
Pxhere
#4. Fast food and counter workers
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 9,460
- Employment per 1,000: 25.442 (7% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $22,960
National
- Employment: 3,996,820 (#2 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $23,250
- Entry level education requirements: No formal educational credential
- Employment: 9,460
- Employment per 1,000: 25.442 (7% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $22,960
National
- Employment: 3,996,820 (#2 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $23,250
- Entry level education requirements: No formal educational credential
48 / 50
Dean Drobot // Shutterstock
#3. Cashiers
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 9,910
- Employment per 1,000: 26.658 (9% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $23,590
National
- Employment: 3,596,630 (#3 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $24,370
- Entry level education requirements: No formal educational credential
- Employment: 9,910
- Employment per 1,000: 26.658 (9% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $23,590
National
- Employment: 3,596,630 (#3 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $24,370
- Entry level education requirements: No formal educational credential
49 / 50
ESB Basic // Shutterstock
#2. Customer service representatives
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 10,480
- Employment per 1,000: 28.207 (42% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $42,370
National
- Employment: 2,919,230 (#7 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $37,320
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Employment: 10,480
- Employment per 1,000: 28.207 (42% higher employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $42,370
National
- Employment: 2,919,230 (#7 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $37,320
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
50 / 50
Monkey Business Images // Shutterstock
#1. Retail salespersons
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA
- Employment: 10,750
- Employment per 1,000: 28.911 (2% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $28,990
National
- Employment: 4,317,950 (#1 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $29,360
- Entry level education requirements: No formal educational credential
- Employment: 10,750
- Employment per 1,000: 28.911 (2% lower employment than U.S. average)
- Annual mean salary: $28,990
National
- Employment: 4,317,950 (#1 most common job in U.S.)
- Annual mean salary: $29,360
- Entry level education requirements: No formal educational credential
