Principal Financial Group Inc

FinOps Cloud Engineer

Principal Financial Group Inc$85K — $165K *
US-AnywhereRemote in Des Moines, IA
Enterprise Technology
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Associate's or bachelor's degree in computer science, technology, engineering or math-related field and 3+ years of experience.
  • Strong understanding of AWS and Azure billing and pricing models.
  • Proficient in Typescript and/or Python.
  • Experience with Infrastructure as Code tools like Terraform or CloudFormation.
  • Familiar with FinOps principles and frameworks.
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong communication skills with ability to work cross-functionally.

Responsibilities

  • Monitor and analyze cloud spend across AWS and Azure platforms.
  • Identify cost-saving opportunities through rightsizing and purchasing strategies.
  • Build and maintain dashboards for visibility into cloud usage and costs.
  • Translate complex billing data into actionable insights.
  • Partner with various teams to align cloud usage with business objectives.
  • Educate teams on cost-aware architecture and usage patterns.
  • Help define and enforce cloud cost governance policies and standards.

Benefits

  • Flexible Time Off (FTO) for vacation and personal needs without accrued limits.
  • Pension eligibility for long-term financial security.
  • Remote, hybrid, and in-office work arrangements available for flexibility.
  • A supportive culture that values unique experiences and backgrounds.
  • Comprehensive benefits aimed at protecting physical, financial, and social well-being.
Full Job Description
What You'll Do

We are seeking a skilled engineer to join the FinOps team within Information Services, where you’ll play a key role in shaping how Principal’s cloud costs are managed, optimized, and governed across the organization.  Upon joining the team, you would be developing and implementing solutions that advance our enterprise-wide FinOps strategy—helping Principal optimize cloud financial management, improve cost transparency, and drive smarter decision-making for teams making technology choices. 

Working within an agile environment, our team emphasizes consistent, fully managed deployments. This role provides a unique opportunity to influence both delivery processes and outcomes, while partnering closely with a high-performing group of infrastructure engineers and technology professionals. 

Our team currently focuses on managing and optimizing AWS cloud spend, but we're actively expanding our scope to include other cloud service providers (CSPs) used at Principal and technologies such as IaaS, SaaS, and vendor-hosted solutions. This role offers the opportunity to help shape our evolving FinOps strategy across a diverse and growing technology landscape. 

As a Member of the Team, You will: 

  • Monitor, analyze, and report on cloud spend across platforms (currently this includes AWS & Azure). 
  • Identify cost-saving opportunities through rightsizing, scheduling, and purchasing strategies (e.g., Reserved Instances, Savings Plans). 
  • Build and maintain dashboards and reports to provide visibility into cloud usage and costs. 
  • Translate complex billing data into actionable insights for engineering, finance, and leadership teams. 
  • Partner with engineering, finance, procurement, and product teams to align cloud usage with business goals. 
  • Educate teams on cost-aware architecture and usage patterns. 
  • Help define and enforce cloud cost governance policies and tagging standards. 
  • Support compliance with internal and external financial controls. 
  • Implement and maintain FinOps tooling. 
  • Automate cost tracking, anomaly detection, and budget alerts. 
  • Assist in forecasting cloud spend and aligning budgets with usage trends. 
  • Provide input into financial planning and scenario modeling. 
  • Contribute to the evolution of the FinOps practice by identifying process improvements and scaling strategies. 
  • Stay current with industry trends and best practices in cloud financial management. 
  • Participate in vendor negotiations and evaluate pricing models for cloud services. 

 

Who You Are
  • Associate's or bachelor's degree (preference in a computer science, technology, engineering or math-related field) and 3+ years work experience or equivalent experience 
  • Strong understanding of AWS, Azure, or GCP billing and pricing models. 
  • Proficient with Typescript and/or Python. 
  • Experience with Infrastructure as Code (Terraform, CDK/CloudFormation). 
  • Familiarity with FinOps principles and frameworks. 
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. 
  • Must have the desire and ability to learn new technology and continuously grow. 
  • Strong communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally. 

 

Preferred Qualifications 

  • Experience in cloud infrastructure, cloud financial management, or FinOps. 
  • AWS Certified Solutions Architect or AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
  • Experience with BI tools (Power BI, Tableau, QuickSight). 
  • Knowledge of Kubernetes and containerized workloads on AWS (e.g., EKS). 
  • Background in finance, accounting, or business analytics. 
Salary Range InformationSalary ranges below reflect targeted base salaries. Non-sales positions have the opportunity to participate in a bonus program. Sales positions are eligible for sales incentives, and in some instances a bonus plan, whereby total compensation may far exceed base salary depending on individual performance. Actual compensation for all roles will be based upon geographic location, work experience, education, licensure requirements and/or skill level and will be finalized at the time of offer. Salary Range$85000 - $165000 / year Salary Details

The following salary ranges reflect market-specific compensation for this position across multiple job levels. Candidates will be evaluated to determine the appropriate job level based on their skills and experience. 

  • Infrastructure Engineer III: $85,000 - $135,000 / year
  • Sr. Infrastructure Engineer I: $118,000 - $165,000 / year

 

Time Off ProgramFlexible Time Off (FTO) is provided to salaried (exempt) employees and provides the opportunity to take time away from the office with pay for vacation, personal or short-term illness. Employees don’t accrue a bank of time off under FTO and there is no set number of days provided. Pension EligibleYes Additional Information

Work Environment

 

This role offers in-office, hybrid (blending at least three office days in a typical workweek), and remote work arrangements (only if residing more than 30 miles from Des Moines, IA, Raleigh, NC, or Charlotte, NC). You’ll work with your leader to figure out which option may align best based on several factors.

Job Level

We’ll consider talent at the next level with the right experience and skills.

 

Hours

This role will partner with our global teams and has an expectation for flexibility in your work schedule.  Hours may start at 7:00 a.m. 

Work Authorization/Sponsorship

 

At this time, we're not considering candidates that need any type of immigration sponsorship now or in the future or those needing work authorization for this role. (This includes, but is not limited to students on F1-OPT, F1-CPT, J-1, etc.) 

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)6/17/2026 Latest Post Date: Careers - US6/18/2026

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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

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