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Associate Civil Engineer Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

Olsson

Project Civil Engineer - Site Design

Ankeny, IA · On-site +1

$79K - $106K/yr

As a Civil Project Engineer, you will apply diversified knowledge of engineering principles and ... Coordinates assistant and associate professional staff and technical staff's work; may supervise ...

State of Iowa

Transportation Engineer Associate

Ames, IA · On-site

$66K - $103K/yr

This Transportation Engineer Associate role is based in the Iowa Department of Transportation ... Possession of a verification of graduation with major course work in chemical, civil, construction ...

Snyder & Associates

Right-of-Way Agent

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$26 - $35/hr

Overview Snyder & Associates, Inc. is a well-established civil and structural engineering consulting firm known for delivering thoughtful, high-quality solutions to public and private clients. As ...

Snyder & Associates

Right-of-Way Agent

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$26 - $35/hr

Snyder & Associates, Inc. is a well-established civil and structural engineering consulting firm known for delivering thoughtful, high-quality solutions to public and private clients. As project ...

Snyder & Associates

Right-of-Way Agent

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$26 - $35/hr

Overview Snyder & Associates, Inc. is a well-established civil and structural engineering consulting firm known for delivering thoughtful, high-quality solutions to public and private clients. As ...

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All JobsAssociate Civil Engineer JobsAssociate Civil Engineer Jobs in Ames, IA

Associate Civil Engineer information

See Ames, IA salary details

$50.4K

$97.9K

$150.7K

How much do associate civil engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate civil engineer in Ames, IA is $97,869.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,900.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate civil engineer?

Associate Civil Engineers are professionals who assist in the planning, design, and oversight of construction and infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and water systems. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers and are responsible for preparing reports, analyzing project data, and ensuring that engineering standards and safety regulations are met. This role is often considered an intermediate position, requiring a bachelor's degree in civil engineering and, in some cases, an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification. Associate Civil Engineers play a key role in the successful completion of projects by coordinating with contractors, government agencies, and other stakeholders.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate civil engineer?

To thrive as an Associate Civil Engineer, you need a solid background in civil engineering principles, a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, and an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification or equivalent. Familiarity with design software like AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and project management systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills in this role. These capabilities ensure high-quality engineering solutions, efficient project delivery, and productive collaboration with clients and multidisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges faced by associate civil engineers early in their careers?

Early-career Associate Civil Engineers often encounter the challenge of balancing technical tasks with project coordination responsibilities. They may need to quickly adapt to working on multiple projects simultaneously, managing deadlines, and communicating effectively with both senior engineers and construction teams. Navigating regulatory requirements and ensuring design compliance can also be demanding. However, these challenges provide valuable learning opportunities and help build a strong foundation for future advancement within the civil engineering field.

What is the difference between Associate Civil Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectAssociate Civil EngineerCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in civil engineering or related field; some roles may require engineering internship experienceBachelor's degree in civil engineering; often requires passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam
Work EnvironmentEntry-level position, often assisting senior engineers on projects, working in offices or construction sitesDesign, planning, and oversight of civil projects; work in offices, field sites, or both
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by engineering firms, government agencies, and construction companies for entry-level rolesCommonly used across engineering firms, government departments, and infrastructure projects

The main difference between an Associate Civil Engineer and a Civil Engineer lies in experience and responsibilities. An Associate Civil Engineer is typically an entry-level role focusing on assisting with project tasks, while a Civil Engineer has more experience and may lead projects or design work. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but Civil Engineers usually have greater responsibilities and independence in their work.

What are the most commonly searched types of Civil Engineer jobs in Ames, IA?

The most popular types of Civil Engineer jobs in Ames, IA are:

What cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Associate Civil Engineer jobs?

Cities near Ames, IA with the most Associate Civil Engineer job openings:

Associate Civil Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Civil Engineer job openings in Ames, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $97,869 per year, or $47.1 per hour.

Project Civil Engineer - Site Design

Olsson

Ankeny, IA • On-site, Remote

$79K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Company Description

We are Olsson. We engineer and design solutions that improve the world around us. As a company, we promise to always be responsive, transparent, and focused on results – for our people, our clients, and our company.

We're a people-centric firm, so it's no surprise our greatest asset is our people. The impact this creates is an environment that encourages our people to grow and be creative with their talents. This approach builds a culture that is uniquely Olsson. It allows us to grow our people as we grow our business. This, in turn, creates a lasting impact on the world around us.

Job Description

Olsson provides multidisciplinary design services for mixed-use, commercial, and residential land development projects, along with municipal, industrial, sports, schools, and other site development types. 

As a Civil Project Engineer, you will apply diversified knowledge of engineering principles and practices to a broad variety of assignments and related fields. The project engineer is a registered professional engineer, whose supervision and guidance relate largely to overall objectives, critical issues, new concepts, and policy matters. The project engineer supervises, coordinates, and reviews work of engineers or technicians and performs complex or novel assignments that require development of new and improved techniques and procedures.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Prepares planning and design documents in appropriate engineering discipline.
  • Performs process design calculations, prepares cost estimates, and uses economic analyses for comparison of alternatives.
  • Assists with or develops project scope of work or portions of it; assists with or develops project schedule or portions of it; assists with completion of initiation paperwork; assists with budget reviews and schedules progress reports.
  • Coordinates projects with other Olsson teams; performs and coordinates design aspects of projects; directs team members on design tasks; maintains project records (correspondence, drawings, and files); informs project managers of progress and problems; coordinates with clients; attends client meetings.
  • Assists with marketing/business development; may help write proposals.
  • May serve as project manager on small projects.
  • Independently performs assignments on complex projects.
  • Coordinates assistant and associate professional staff and technical staff's work; may supervise student or technical staff.

This role offers flexible work options, including remote and hybrid opportunities, to accommodate diverse working preferences and promote work-life balance. Candidates can work hybrid schedules, work remotely, or work out of any Olsson office location in the area. Applicants should have the ability to travel for in-office activities, client and site visits as needed.

Qualifications

You are passionate about:

  • Working collaboratively with others.
  • Having ownership in the work you do.
  • Using your talents to positively affect communities.

You bring to the team:

  • Strong communication skills.
  • Ability to contribute and work well on a team.
  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering.
  • 6 or more years of related Civil Engineering experience.
  • Must be a registered Professional Engineer.
  • Proficiency in site layout, grading, utility design, erosion control, regulatory approvals, etc.
  • Working knowledge of Civil 3D.

#LI-DNP

Additional Information

Olsson specializes in engineering and design, client advisory services, planning, field services, and environmental. Improving the world has been our mindset from the very beginning, back when Olsson first opened for business in 1956. And it will be our mindset for years to come.

As an Olsson employee, you will:

  • Receive a competitive 401(k) match
  • Be empowered to build your career with tailored development paths
  • Have the possibility for flexible work arrangements
  • Engage in work that has a positive impact on communities
  • Participate in a wellness program promoting balanced lifestyles

In addition, full-time employees will receive our traditional benefits package (health care, vision, dental, paid time off, etc.) and the opportunity to participate in a bonus system that rewards performance.

Olsson is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage qualified minority, female, veteran, and disabled candidates to apply and be considered for open positions. We do not discriminate against any applicant for employment or any employee because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender, disability, age, military status, or other protected status.

Olsson understands the importance of privacy and is committed to protecting job applicants' personal information. Pursuant to the California Consumer Privacy Act, as amended by the California Privacy Rights Act (collectively, the "CCPA"), this notice explains Olsson's practices regarding the collection, use, and disclosure of personal information for job applicants residing in California. Please read this Notice carefully to understand our privacy practices.

For more information about the types of information we collect and how we use it in connection with your general access and use of our website, please review our general California Privacy Notice here.