Principal Financial Group Inc

Associate Sales Representative - Group Benefits

Finance & Insurance
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree or 8 years of equivalent experience required
  • Strong interest in a career in external sales
  • Sales proficiency and positive relationship building skills
  • Strong work ethic, self-starter, and accountable
  • Ability to adapt to change and run multiple projects
  • Life/Health Insurance License required within 90 days of hire
  • Excellent persuasive communication and presentation skills, basic computer skills

Responsibilities

  • Participate in a long-term Sales Development Program
  • Gain in-depth knowledge through classroom instruction
  • Network and learn from senior sales leaders
  • Get thorough on-the-job training with local mentors
  • Develop and implement sales strategies
  • Build relationships with brokers
  • Grow your own book of business

Benefits

  • Comprehensive benefits package
  • Assistance securing life/health insurance license
  • Professional development opportunities, including conferences
  • Accrued Personal Time Off (PTO)
  • Pension eligibility
  • Support for employee well-being through various offerings
Full Job Description
What You'll Do

The Sales Development Program is a 9-18 month full-time salaried program within our US Life Insurance- Group Benefits division. This training program is focused on developing individuals for successful careers in sales. Our Associate Sales Representatives learn how to partner with brokers to provide customers with comprehensive insurance solutions. Our customers are owners of small to large businesses who want to provide competitive benefits for company employees and their families. When life gets unexpectedly tough, their employees rely on the insurance solutions (such as disability, accident, critical illness, and life) provided by Principal Financial.

 

Who we’re looking for:

  • You want to make a difference in others’ lives.
  • You are internally motivated to achieve your goals, persist through challenges, and reach personal success.
  • You enjoy networking, meeting new people, and building relationships.
  • You like to outperform the competition and win.

What to expect:

  • You’ll start at one of our national training centers where you’ll gain in-depth knowledge of our business through intensive classroom-based study and opportunities to network and learn from senior sales leaders.
  • Following this experience, you’ll be assigned a territory and get thorough on-the-job training with local sales leaders and mentors before gaining your own book of business toward the end of the 18-month program.

What you’ll gain:

  • Learn to actively develop and implement sales strategies
  • Mature your strategy and consulting abilities
  • Build relationships with brokers
  • Enhance your understanding of client care
  • Grow skills in marketing
  • Gain deep product knowledge
  • We’ll also provide you with study time and educational materials to secure your insurance license.

How you’ll accelerate your career:

Your training and experiences during this program will be highly visible to US Life Insurance senior leaders. Upon successful completion of the program, this career path will be responsible for sales growth and market expansion for an assigned regional territory and your earning potential will shift to depend on the volume of successful sales you bring in. You’ll continue to receive professional development opportunities including conferences and training as part of our sales community.

Who You Are
  • Bachelor's degree or 8 years of equivalent experience required at the time of hire
  • Strong interest in a career in external sales
  • Must have sales proficiency and positive relationship building skills
  • Strong work ethic, self-starter, and accountable for own actions
  • Adaptable to change as well as running multiple projects
  • Life/Health License required within 90 days of hire
  • Requires ability to work independently, excellent and persuasive written and oral communication skills, excellent presentation skills, and basic computer skills
  • Willingness to travel within the identified territory as needed for this position

Preferred skills include:

  • Awards or recognition from sales competitions
  • Bilingual English/Spanish skills preferred but not required
  • Outstanding extra-curricular, leadership, or community involvement
Salary Range InformationThis position offers a competitive compensation package consisting of a base salary combined with incentive earnings. The base salary will provide financial stability, while the incentive component offers additional earning potential based on performance metrics. Salary Range$55000 - $55000 / hour Time Off ProgramPersonal Time Off (PTO) is provided to hourly (non-exempt) employees and provides a set amount of accrued time earned each pay period. Employees can use their PTO for vacation, personal or short-term illness. Pension EligibleYes Additional Information

Location

This role can be located in Des Moines, IA; Minnetonka, MN; Denver, CO; Charlotte, NC; Nashville, TN; or Downers Grove, IL.

Work Authorization/Sponsorship

At this time, we're not considering candidates that need any type of immigration sponsorship (additional work authorization or permanent work authorization) now or in the future to work in the United States? This includes, but IS NOT LIMITED TO: F1-OPT, F1-CPT, H-1B, TN, L-1, J-1, etc. For additional information around work authorization needs please use the following links.

Nonimmigrant Workers and Green Card for Employment-Based Immigrants

Investment Code of Ethics

For Principal Global Investors positions, you’ll need to follow an Investment Code of Ethics related to personal and business conduct as well as personal trading activities for you and members of your household. These same requirements may also apply to other positions across the organization.

Experience Principal

At Principal, we value connecting on both a personal and professional level. Together, we’re imagining a more purpose-led future for financial services – and that starts with you. Our success depends on the unique experiences, backgrounds, and talents of our employees. And we support our employees the same way we support our customers: with comprehensive, competitive benefit offerings crafted to protect their physical, financial, and social well-being. Check out our careers site to learn more about our purpose, values and benefits.

 

 

Posting WindowWe will accept applications for 3 full days following the Original Posting Date, after which the posting may remain open or be removed based upon applications received. If we choose to post the job again, we will accept additional applications for at least 1 full day following the Most Recently Posted Date. Please submit applications in a timely manner as there is no guarantee the posting will be available beyond the applicable deadline. Date First Posted (TTF)9/3/2026 Latest Post Date: Careers - US9/3/2026

LinkedIn Hashtag

#LI-BS1

About Principal Financial Group Inc

Principal Financial Group Inc Careers

Join the dynamic team at Principal Financial Group Inc, a global leader in investment management and retirement services. At Principal, we are committed to helping individuals and businesses achieve financial security and success, making now the perfect time to explore job opportunities with us.

Work You’ll Do

Embark on a career at Principal Financial Group Inc and contribute to our mission of empowering financial well-being across the globe. Our company offers a wide range of positions, from finance to technology, where your skills will help shape the future of financial services.

Innovate and Lead

At Principal, innovation and leadership go hand in hand. We provide a platform where your ideas can lead to groundbreaking financial solutions, driving growth and efficiency. Join our team and be at the forefront of industry-leading projects that redefine what is possible in the financial sector.

Grow Your Career

Principal Financial Group Inc is not just a company; it's a place where you can grow professionally and personally. We support career advancement through professional development programs, leadership training, and opportunities for networking and mentorship. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion ensures that all team members have the opportunity to succeed.

Experience Our Culture

Our culture is built on collaboration, respect, and a commitment to excellence. We believe in fostering a supportive environment where every team member’s contribution is valued. Enjoy benefits that support both your professional and personal life, and work alongside colleagues who are passionate about making a difference.

Internship and Employment Opportunities

Whether you're starting your career or looking to make a significant impact in your professional journey, Principal offers a range of internship and employment opportunities. Gain hands-on experience, work on real-world projects, and learn from leaders in the financial industry.

Join Our Team

Ready to take the next step in your career? Explore the job opportunities at Principal Financial Group Inc. We are hiring creative, curious, and motivated individuals who are ready to drive innovation and lead with integrity. Check out our open positions, tailor your resume, and prepare for an interview that could lead to your next great adventure.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest from Principal Financial Group Inc by following our careers blog. Get insider perspectives, tips for a successful interview, and the latest news on the financial industry that you can apply directly to your career.

Networking and Professional Development

At Principal, your growth is our priority. Enhance your professional skills through comprehensive training programs and connect with industry leaders and peers through our robust networking events. Our commitment to your development is unwavering, as we believe it is fundamental to our collective success.

Explore Careers at Principal Financial Group Inc

Discover the exciting career paths available at Principal. From internships to leadership roles, the opportunities for professional growth are abundant. Join us and contribute to a company that values innovation, leadership, and a diverse workforce dedicated to achieving exceptional results.

Apply Today

Are you ready to make a meaningful impact in the financial services industry? Search for open positions that match your skills and interests at Principal Financial Group Inc. We look for passionate, driven, and solution-oriented team players. Start your journey with us today and be part of a team that’s redefining the future of finance.

Principal Financial Group Inc—where careers grow, innovation thrives, and leaders are made.

Learn more about Principal Financial Group Inc
Size
18,600 employees
Market Cap
$20.7 billion
Industry
Net Income
$1.3 billion
5 Year Trend
+2.7%
Revenue
$14.7 billion
NASDAQ

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Principal Financial Group Inc

More Finance & Insurance Jobs

Find similar Associate Sales Representative - Group Benefits jobs: