Hy-Vee Inc. failed to properly compensate some of its department managers when they worked more than 40 hours a week, according to 13 lawsuits filed Monday in federal court in Des Moines.

The lawsuits represent individuals who say they work as managers or assistant managers in bakery, produce, floral and other specialty sections at Hy-Vee stores across the Midwest.

The plaintiffs seek pay for the overtime hours they worked prior to June 2011, when Hy-Vee reclassified its managers to make them eligible for overtime pay under the Federal Fair Labor Standards Act, which regulates hours and wages.

Hy-Vee was the target of a class-action lawsuit filed last year by Todd Jung, who identified himself as a “product specialist” at the company’s grocery store in Overland Park, Kan. According to court records, Hy-Vee reached a settlement in the case, which was dismissed earlier this year.

Ruth Comer, director of media relations for Hy-Vee, said the company did reclassify its department managers last year. However, she declined comment on the pending lawsuits.

“In general we strive to compensate our employees fairly and equitably and treat them in the best interests of the employee and the company for the long term,” she said.