Help Iowa HHS build sustainable qualitative analysis, communication, and feedback systems that strengthen how community and provider voice informs human services programs across the state. As a full‑year VISTA, you will support the Performance & Operations Division and collaborate with teams across Iowa HHS to improve how staff capture, code, synthesize, and communicate input from partners serving low-income Iowans.
This role is ideal for individuals interested in human services, public policy, qualitative research, organizational operations, or systems improvement. You will develop analysis tools, communication routines, standard operating procedures, feedback workflows, and sustainability resources that help HHS make more transparent, data-informed decisions.
The VISTA will work closely with collaborators on our Performance & Operations Team to gain hands-on experience with statewide operations and performance management practices. You will also support one agency-wide volunteer engagement objective that strengthens sustainable volunteer-supported capacity across Iowa HHS.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Develop qualitative coding tools, templates, codebooks, and workflows to standardize analysis across HHS.
- Create thematic summaries, synthesis memos, and plain-language “what we heard/what we’re doing” communication products.
- Build job aids, SOPs, process maps, and documentation that support long-term sustainability.
- Pilot analysis routines using existing provider and community feedback sources.
- Support internal communication routines that promote transparency and strengthen trust with partners serving low-income Iowans.
- Build resource hubs (e.g., SharePoint) to organize materials and examples. Conduct assessments of existing feedback and workflow processes.
- Support volunteer-engagement capacity building: identify volunteer-supported roles, develop onboarding materials, and draft volunteer role templates.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required:
- Strong written, verbal, and plain-language communication skills.
- Ability to analyze qualitative information, develop documentation, and organize complex themes.
- Interest in human services, systems operations, organizational development, or qualitative methods.
- Comfort with technology, digital tools, and learning new platforms.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively across teams.
Timeframe:
- Length of Commitment: 1 Year, Full‑Time VISTA Term
- Scheduling: Monday–Friday, standard business hours
- Worksite: Iowa HHS Central Office (Des Moines) with hybrid modality; routine in-person attendance required
Benefits of Serving:
- Professional development, mentorship, and training in qualitative analysis, communication, and performance management.
- First-hand experience with statewide human services operations.
- Opportunities to build systems that improve service equity and strengthen agency transparency.
- Connection to PHIG initiatives, HHS divisions, and community partners statewide.
- A meaningful service year that builds skills in research, analysis, communication, operations, and project design.
AmeriCorps VISTA Benefits:
- Living allowance paid biweekly
- End‑of‑service award (Segal Education Award or cash stipend)
- Relocation assistance if eligible
- Health coverage*
- Childcare assistance if eligible
- Access to AmeriCorps training and career development resources
*For details about VISTA healthcare benefits, visit https://americorpsvista.imglobal.com/.
Volunteer Agrees To:
- Follow guidelines provided by Iowa HHS and AmeriCorps VISTA
- Maintain a professional and respectful approach across all partner interactions
- Dedicate sufficient time and energy to meet position expectations
- Acknowledge that this is an AmeriCorps VISTA service position, not employment
