Lead Application Developer

Information Technology Specialist 5

The Department of Management's Division of Information Technology (DOM-DoIT) is seeking a highly skilled Information Technology Specialist 5 (ITS5) to lead the design, development, optimization, and support of software solutions that deliver statewide services. This position is pivotal in ensuring technical excellence, adherence to enterprise standards, and the delivery of secure, scalable, and maintainable systems. The ITS5 will collaborate with cross-functional teams, mentor junior staff, and drive innovation through the adoption of emerging technologies and best practices.

What You Will Do

• Design, develop, optimize, and support software solutions managed by DOM-DoIT for statewide services
• Architect new solutions
• Act as a Team Lead
• Implementation of user experience testing, design and research
• Remediation and implement WCAG 2.2 AA coding best practices
• Ensure alignment with enterprise architecture, quality expectations, and technical standards
• Implement and maintain CI/CD pipelines and DevSecOps practices for enhanced security and operational efficiency
• Lead adherence to enterprise testing standards, ensuring reliable and secure systems and operational efficiency
• Conduct risk assessments and implement risk management strategies to ensure operational stability
• Analyze and assess system specifications for alignment with technical requirements and enterprise objectives
• Optimize development efforts and strategic purchasing decisions for cost efficiency
• Lead, coach, mentor, and train junior team members; utilize AI for QA and software engineering
• Monitor performance and resolve issues to ensure stable system operations in alignment with SLAs and incident protocols
• Oversee technical documentation and contribute to enterprise-wide policies, SOPs, and guidelines
• Collaborate with Product Owners, cross-functional teams, and stakeholders for successful project alignment
• Focus on training in AI Engineering, SQL, .Net, Angular, Accessibility/ADA Compliance, USWDS, and Design Systems
• Keep informed about emerging technologies and industry trends to foster innovation and professional growth

What We Are Seeking

• Strong technical proficiency in software development, accessibility for applications for government and UI/UX (e.g..Net, Angular, C#, SQL, HTML5, Visual Studio, SASS, Figma, Design Systems, USWDS)
• Experience with CI/CD, DevSecOps, and enterprise testing standards
• Ability to lead and mentor junior staff, and collaborate with diverse teams
• Knowledge of accessibility standards (WCAG 2.2 AA, Section 508, Title I & II), user experience design, and research principles
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
• Experience with user experience research tools & methods (e.g. heat maps, behavioral flows, Google analytics, A/B testing)
• Experience with accessibility testing tools (e.g. Jaws, NVDA, Browser Stack, Wave, manual testing)
• Must complete the free accessibility DHS Trusted Tester Certification prior to starting
• Strategic mindset focused on continuous improvement and risk management
• Must pass DOM background check and reside in Iowa (will consider applicants moving to Iowa within 2 weeks of offer)
• Selective certifications: 198 HTML

What We Offer

• Flexible work environment
• Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System (IPERS)
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Generous vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays
• Life and disability insurance
• Retirement savings options (RIC)
• Flexible Spending Accounts

Why Work with Us?

At the Iowa Department of Management (DOM), we help government agencies across the state perform at their best by managing financial resources, technology, and information. Our mission is rooted in service—we provide efficient, innovative, and strategic solutions that empower agencies to fulfill their goals.

We're guided by four core values:

• Integrity – We act with honesty and accountability.
• Teamwork – We collaborate to achieve shared success.
• Service – We are committed to excellence in public service.
• Partnership – We build strong relationships to drive results.

Working Arrangement

This position occasionally requires onsite work in Des Moines, IA. Employees meeting all expectations of their work responsibilities may request fully remote work and develop a hybrid/remote schedule collaboratively with their manager.

Please note, candidates for this position must reside in the state of Iowa at the time of starting the role.

Background Check Requirements

• After a conditional offer of employment has been made, and as the final step in the hiring process, candidates for this position will be subject to a background investigation, which may include but may not be limited to a verification of a candidate's education, previous employment/work history, contact of personal references, motor vehicle records, and a criminal history check (including through Federal, State, or Local criminal justice agencies).
• Information gathered as part of such background investigation will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by Iowa Code section 22.7, 8B.4A, and other applicable laws, rules, and regulations; provided that, to the extent permitted by applicable law, such information shall be available to candidates upon request.

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