Job Description
The Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program Manager position directs daily program operations, oversees planning and quality assurance activities, and ensures alignment with CDC requirements, Iowa Administrative Code, and HHS standards. This position manages program policies, procedures, and provider guidance materials; evaluates progress toward annual goals; and implements improvements that strengthen statewide immunization practices. The Program Manager also oversees vaccine ordering, distribution, storage, and accountability for more than 600 enrolled providers, ensuring adherence to federal and state requirements and addressing issues related to wastage, misuse, fraud, or other compliance concerns. The role includes preparing monthly vaccine spend plans and monitoring funding availability to support vaccine access statewide. This position serves as Iowa’s technical expert on VFC Program requirements by providing training, technical assistance, and daily consultative support to physicians, nurses, pharmacists, clinic administrators, and other healthcare professionals. Responsibilities include developing educational materials, conducting provider enrollment and compliance visits, and communicating updates on federal program policy to ensure providers remain informed and compliant. The Program Manager analyzes vaccine utilization, inventory, and compliance data; prepares required state and federal reports; coordinates with epidemiologists and the Iowa Immunization Registry Information System (IRIS) team; and contributes to grant documentation and broader program evaluation efforts. This role identifies trends, monitors provider performance, and recommends operational strategies that improve vaccine availability and reduce avoidable wastage. The VFC Program Manager serves as the primary liaison to the CDC, Medicaid, local public health agencies, healthcare providers, and other statewide partners. The role includes participating in discussions related to administrative rule updates, program processes, and statewide immunization policies; representing Iowa at meetings and conferences; and collaborating to strengthen Iowa’s immunization infrastructure through improved coordination, workflow enhancements, and partner engagement.
Benefits
Working for the State of Iowa comes with its perks. In addition to a competitive salary, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth:
- Health, Dental, and Vision Coverage: Health and dental insurance packages to keep you and your family healthy at a low cost with outstanding coverage!
- Paid Time Off: Take time to recharge with paid time off, including vacation (96 hours/year to begin, increasing with years of service), sick leave (144 hours/year), and paid holidays (9 days/year).
- Retirement Plans: Participate in retirement plans such as IPERS (employees contribute 6.29% and the State of Iowa contributes 9.44%) as well as our Retirement Investors Club (RIC), Employer Sponsored Retirement Plan (the State of Iowa matches dollar for dollar up to $75/month).
- Flexible Spending Accounts: Take advantage of flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care expenses.
- Insurance Coverage: Benefit from life insurance and free long-term disability insurance for added peace of mind.
- Employee Assistance Program: Access resources and support through our Employee Assistance Program for personal and professional challenges.
- Employee Discount Programs: Enjoy discounts on a variety of goods and services through our employee discount programs.
For additional information on benefits click here. Click here to see how we compare with other employers or offers by using our Total Compensation Calculator. Background Checks Applicants will be required to complete a background check to be considered for this position. The State of Iowa is an EEO/AA Employer HHS values those with “lived experience” and encourages adults who were fostered as youth, foster parents, and/or parents who were in the DHS system to apply. Minorities, women, persons with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply (Hearing and Speech Impaired – Relay Iowa 1-800-735-2942 TDD). 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 www.e-verify.gov. All work performed on behalf of Iowa Health and Human Services must occur in the State of Iowa. Minimum Qualification Requirements Applicants must meet at least one of the following minimum requirements to qualify for positions in this job classification:
- Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in any field, and experience equal to four years of full-time professional-level work in program administration, program development, program operations, or management.
- A total of eight years of education and/or full-time experience (as described in number one), where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university course work in any field equals one year of full-time experience.
- All of the following (a, b, and c):(a) Two years of full-time professional-level work experience in program administration, program development, program operations, or management; and (b) A total of four years of education and full-time experience (as described in part a), where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university course work in any field equals one year of full-time experience; and (c) A total of two years of graduate-level education and full-time experience (as described in part a), where twenty-four semester hours of accredited graduate college or university course work in a public-service-related area (e.g., public or business administration, social work, public health, law, education, engineering) equals one year of full-time experience. Graduation from the Iowa Certified Public Manager Program is also equivalent to one year of full-time experience or education.
- Current, continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes twelve months of full-time work as a Program Manager 1 or comparable specific management-level position.
For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description.
Benefits
Why Choose the State of Iowa? At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset – our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.
Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:
Competitive Compensation:
Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise. Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendly Total Compensation Calculator. Gain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.
Health and Wellness:
Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.
Retirement Planning:
We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind. Click here to learn more about IPERS.
Paid Time Off:
Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.
Professional Development:
Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP):
We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.
Diversity and Inclusion:
Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.
Join Us - Elevate Your Career:
Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa? Click here to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!
