What You'll Do

We are actively seeking an Associate Accountant to join our Tax Financial Reporting team, which is responsible for income tax reporting and the preparation of tax returns for our domestic non‑insurance entities. This role is ideal for someone who has a solid understanding of financial statements, can learn and apply technical accounting concepts, and is a motivated self-starter.

Under direct supervision, the Associate Accountant will build technical accounting knowledge, develop familiarity with organizational processes and systems, and contribute to accurate and compliant financial reporting.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Analysis & Reporting

Perform basic accounting analysis and reporting of financial transactions in accordance with GAAP, SAP, and tax or other regulatory guidance
Execute transaction processing, exception handling, and month‑end close activities
Prepare routine journal entries and ensure accurate, timely financial submissions
Reconcile accounts and prepare supporting documentation for the financial control process
Conduct routine variance analysis and extract management reports used for decision making

Compliance & Controls

Apply general compliance requirements to ensure accurate and timely financial reporting
Understand and operate within the internal control framework
Assist with compliance efforts related to regulatory internal control requirements, including SOX

Professional Development

Demonstrate awareness of applicable professional accounting standards
Develop competence through structured work assignments
Build knowledge of organizational processes, products, tools, and customers

Operating at the intersection of financial services and technology, Principal builds financial tools that help our customers live better lives. We take pride in being a purpose-led firm, motivated by our mission to make financial security accessible to all. Our mission, integrity, and customer focus have made us a trusted leader for more than 140 years!

Who You Are

Bachelor's degree in accounting or finance, or equivalent experience required
Must have strong problem solving, leadership and analytical skills
Excellent communication skills required
Must have good interpersonal, customer service and organizational skills
Demonstrates the ability to accept and adapt to a changing environment
Strong Excel capabilities preferred

Salary Range Information

Salary ranges below reflect targeted base salaries. Non-sales positions have the opportunity to participate in a bonus program. Sales positions are eligible for sales incentives, and in some instances a bonus plan, whereby total compensation may far exceed base salary depending on individual performance. Actual compensation for all roles will be based upon geographic location, work experience, education, licensure requirements and/or skill level and will be finalized at the time of offer.

Salary Range (Non-Exempt expressed as hourly; Exempt expressed as yearly)

$24.20 - $32.43 / hour

Time Off Program

Personal Time Off (PTO) is provided to hourly (non-exempt) employees and provides a set amount of accrued time earned each pay period. Employees can use their PTO for vacation, personal or short-term illness.

Pension Eligible

Yes

Work Environments

This role offers in-office, hybrid (blending at least three office days in a typical work week) from Des Moines, IA.

Work Authorization/Sponsorship

At this time, we're not considering applicants that need any type of immigration sponsorship (additional work authorization or permanent work authorization) now or in the future to work in the United States. This includes, but IS NOT LIMITED TO: F1-OPT, F1-CPT, H-1B, TN, L-1, J-1, etc. For additional information around work authorization needs please use the following links.

Nonimmigrant Workers and Green Card for Employment-Based Immigrants

Investment Code of Ethics

For Principal Asset Management positions, you’ll need to follow an Investment Code of Ethics related to personal and business conduct as well as personal trading activities for you and members of your household. These same requirements may also apply to other positions across the organization.

Experience Principal

At Principal, we value connecting on both a personal and professional level. Together, we’re imagining a more purpose-led future for financial services – and that starts with you. Our success depends on the unique experiences, backgrounds, and talents of our employees. And we support our employees the same way we support our customers: with comprehensive, competitive benefit offerings crafted to protect their physical, financial, and social well-being. Check out our careers site to learn more about our purpose, values and benefits.

Principal is an Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Posting Window

We will accept applications for 3 full days following the Original Posting Date, after which the posting may remain open or be removed based upon applications received. If we choose to post the job again, we will accept additional applications for at least 1 full day following the Most Recently Posted Date. Please submit applications in a timely manner as there is no guarantee the posting will be available beyond the applicable deadline.

Original Posting Date

4/22/2026

Most Recently Posted Date