Accounts Payable Specialist.

In Des Moines, large enterprises typically pay Accounts Payable Specialists 10 to 20% more in base salary than small companies, but startups often compensate with equity that can exceed base salary value. Total compensation for Accounts Payable Specialists runs roughly $57K at median when factoring base + typical bonus (~3% of base). The $38,000 to $64,000 range reflects this entire spectrum.

Iowa has a flat 3.8% state income tax. Des Moines has no city income tax. The low rate and affordable housing create strong purchasing power. When comparing offers across states, your take home pay matters more than the number on the offer letter. A lower salary in a no income tax state can net more than a higher one elsewhere.

Entry level Accounts Payable Specialist positions in Des Moines typically start near $38,000. Candidates with relevant internships, certifications, or portfolio work often negotiate closer to the median of $49,000. Accounts Payable Specialists progress from entry to senior in 4 to 6 years, with lead and manager levels requiring 8+ years plus either deeper technical specialization or broader organizational scope.

Accounts Payable Specialists progress from entry to senior in 4 to 6 years, with lead and manager levels requiring 8+ years plus either deeper technical specialization or broader organizational scope. In Des Moines, each step up the ladder is amplified by the local cost of living multiplier, which means senior roles pay proportionally more than in lower cost markets.

Ask about equity structure, vesting schedule, annual bonus targets, 401(k) match, health insurance premiums, PTO policy, and remote flexibility. Total compensation for Accounts Payable Specialists runs roughly $57K at median when factoring base + typical bonus (~3% of base). In Des Moines's market, these extras can add $12,250 or more on top of the base salary.

Accounts Payable Specialists in Des Moines earn a median of $49,000, which positions this role competitively within its field. Related roles may pay 10 to 25% more or less depending on specialization depth. Use Orbyt's Salary Explorer to compare specific roles side by side in Des Moines.

Accounts Payable Specialist compensation is driven by certification depth, tooling expertise, and the criticality of the function to revenue or compliance. Base salary carries most of the total compensation, with bonuses adding roughly 3% in a typical year. Within office administration, industry context (legal, medical, financial) and certifications shift the band; executive-level support roles command the premium. In Des Moines, these factors can push compensation from the 25th percentile of $38,000 to the 75th percentile of $64,000 or beyond.