Application Developer I (Contract to Hire)

About Us:
EquiTrust Life Insurance Company is a national carrier of competitive, client-friendly annuity products sold through a variety of distribution channels, including more than 20,000 independent agents and independent marketing organizations (IMOs). Since 2003, we have provided exceptional customer service to our clients by operating with integrity and passion. Our efforts are supported by a dedicated workforce who execute their responsibilities through teamwork and an entrepreneurial spirit. EquiTrust sells products nationwide and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with operations in West Des Moines, Iowa.

How You’ll Contribute:
The Application Developer I is responsible for developing new system applications per requests, including coding, testing, and completion of required system documentation. The incumbent also performs maintenance to existing applications. The Application Developer I keeps up-to-date on hardware, development techniques and development languages being used by the company for development purposes by continuing to refine their technical development skills. 

What You’ll Do: 

• Develops new applications as per specifications including developing application code, testing completed applications, and develop required documentation as defined by company development standards.
• Maintains strict adherence to standards for documentation, development techniques, testing, and other related development activity.
• Maintains existing programs as per project task specifications including coding the alterations, testing the corrected application and updating the required documentation as defined by company development standards.
• Participates in walk-throughs of program design, coding, and testing in order to minimize occurrence of program problems.
• Keeps up-to-date on system development techniques and languages which are being used for system development and apply those techniques during development effort.
• Keeps designated individuals informed on project/work status.
• Continues to focus on developing technical skills in system application development.
• Supports the Information Technology team and other departments on an as needed basis.
• Willingly takes on additional responsibilities as requested in order to accomplish department and Company objectives.
• Actively participates and contributes to the goals and objectives of the Company by working collaboratively and fostering a positive and inclusive work environment.

What You'll Bring:
Education: 

• Associate's degree – Computer Science or a related field of study required
• Bachelor’s Degree, Computer Science or a related field of study preferred

Experience: 

• If Associate's degree, minimum 1 year of application development experience required.
• If Bachelor's degree, 0 years of application development experience required. 
• Experience working in an insurance company preferred. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Demonstrated ability to develop in at least 2 programming languages, one of which must be Java or .NET.
• Familiarity with or basic working knowledge of code versioning tools.
• Demonstrated ability to proactively identify and solve problems and issues of all types; must be able to identify situations that fall outside the parameters of normal or routine activity.
• Possess analytical skills including proficiency with research tools and techniques.
• Must be able to multi-task and manage time in order to meet varying deadlines; must be able to execute under pressure.
• Responsible, reliable, dedicated, and accountable.
• Organized and self-directed.
• Intuitive, problem solver, and analytical.
• Quick learner.
• Ability to work effectively with all departments and affiliates to ensure integration of strategic goals and principles

Where You’ll Work:

• West Des Moines, IA
• Office Location: Mostly Off-Site 
• Travel not required or likely

Total Rewards:
In addition to base pay, eligible employees may receive an annual discretionary incentive bonus and access to a competitive benefits package including: 

• Medical, Dental & Vision coverage:
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Paid time off: Vacation, Sick, Holiday, and more
• Paid Parental Leave for both Mothers and Fathers
• Hybrid/Remote Work Options
• Early Friday Closure

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