Iowa’s thriving economy and diverse industries make it an excellent choice for graduates entering the workforce. With opportunities in renewable energy, finance, healthcare, and more, the state provides a strong foundation for career growth and job stability.
This guide highlights Iowa’s top employers using CareerDNA data, which evaluates companies based on their career impact scores—measuring their potential to shape your future career—and two-year retention rates, reflecting workplace satisfaction. Whether you’re interested in energy innovation, financial services, or academic opportunities, these employers stand out in Iowa’s job market.
Top Employers in Iowa for Graduates
- MidAmerican Energy
- Career Impact Score: 10.76 (highest in Iowa)
- Two-Year Probability: 53.04%
MidAmerican Energy is a leader in renewable energy and utilities, offering graduates opportunities in engineering, environmental science, and energy management. Its high career impact score makes it a top choice for professional growth.
- Principal Financial Group
- Career Impact Score: 9.06
- Two-Year Probability: 60.81%
A global financial services leader, Principal Financial Group provides graduates with opportunities in finance, analytics, and customer service. Its retention rate reflects a supportive and stable workplace environment.
- John Deere
- Career Impact Score: 7.43
- Two-Year Probability: 48.14%
Known for its innovation in agricultural machinery, John Deere offers graduates roles in engineering, manufacturing, and corporate operations.
- MercyOne
- Career Impact Score: 6.67
- Two-Year Probability: 75.00% (highest retention rate in the state)
A key healthcare provider in Iowa, MercyOne provides graduates with opportunities in clinical care, healthcare administration, and technology, supported by an exceptional retention rate.
- Wells Fargo
- Career Impact Score: 4.92
- Two-Year Probability: 57.26%
A leader in banking and financial services, Wells Fargo offers graduates career paths in finance, technology, and customer relations.
- University of Iowa
- Career Impact Score: 4.81
- Two-Year Probability: 34.83%
A premier academic institution, the University of Iowa offers career opportunities in education, research, and administration.
- Hy-Vee
- Career Impact Score: 4.27
- Two-Year Probability: 51.51%
Headquartered in Iowa, Hy-Vee offers graduates career paths in retail management, logistics, and corporate operations, blending career impact with stability.
- Collins Aerospace
- Career Impact Score: 4.13
- Two-Year Probability: 33.29%
A leader in aerospace technology, Collins Aerospace provides graduates with opportunities in engineering, product development, and manufacturing.
- Casey’s General Stores
- Career Impact Score: 3.59
- Two-Year Probability: 36.10%
Casey’s General Stores offers roles in retail management, operations, and supply chain, providing graduates with a strong foundation in the retail sector.
- Iowa State University
- Career Impact Score: 3.08
- Two-Year Probability: 27.31%
Iowa State University, a leading academic and research institution, offers graduates career-building opportunities in education and administration.
Explore salary benchmarks, career progression opportunities, and jobs tailored to your career goals—all for free at yourcareerdna.com.