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Associate Structural Engineer Jobs in Rock Rapids, IA

All JobsAssociate Structural Engineer JobsAssociate Structural Engineer Jobs in Rock Rapids, IA

Associate Structural Engineer information

See Rock Rapids, IA salary details

$46.6K

$92.6K

$141.5K

How much do associate structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate structural engineer in Rock Rapids, IA is $92,558.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,500.00 and $105,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate structural engineer?

Associate Structural Engineers are early to mid-career professionals who assist in designing, analyzing, and overseeing the construction of structures such as buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure. They work under the supervision of senior engineers to ensure projects meet safety standards, building codes, and client specifications. Their responsibilities often include creating structural drawings, performing calculations, conducting site visits, and coordinating with architects and contractors. This role serves as a key step toward becoming a licensed structural engineer and taking on more advanced project leadership.

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

To thrive as an Associate Structural Engineer, you need a solid understanding of structural analysis, design principles, and engineering mathematics, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering and EIT/FE certification. Proficiency with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, Revit, ETABS, or SAP2000 is essential for modeling and analyzing structures. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set standout candidates apart. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant design of structures while facilitating successful project collaboration.

What are some common challenges faced by associate structural engineers when transitioning from design to construction phases?

Associate Structural Engineers often encounter challenges when their design concepts are implemented on-site, such as unanticipated site conditions or discrepancies between plans and actual construction. Effective communication with contractors and adaptability are crucial to resolving these issues promptly. Collaborating closely with senior engineers and construction teams helps ensure that design intent is maintained while accommodating necessary field adjustments, making teamwork and problem-solving essential skills in this phase.

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

AspectAssociate Structural EngineerStructural Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering; some may have EIT certificationBachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering; often EIT certification, PE license preferred
Work EnvironmentEntry-level to mid-level roles in consulting firms, construction, or engineering servicesMid-level to senior roles, overseeing projects and design work in similar settings
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in consulting firms, construction companies, and government agenciesUsed across similar industries, often with more project management responsibilities

The main difference between an Associate Structural Engineer and a Structural Engineer lies in experience and responsibilities. Associate Structural Engineers are typically early in their careers, focusing on assisting with design and analysis, while Structural Engineers have more experience, often leading projects and making critical decisions. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but the Structural Engineer role usually involves greater independence and responsibility.

Associate Structural Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Structural Engineer job openings in Rock Rapids, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,558 per year, or $44.5 per hour.

ELECTRICAL DESIGN TECHNICIAN

Rock Rapids, IA

DGR Engineering
Specialized Design Services • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about DGR Engineeringexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

DGR Engineering is a growing engineering firm with offices in Rock Rapids, Sioux City and Sioux Center, Iowa as well as Sioux Falls, Rapid City and Belle Fourche, South Dakota.  

DGR has been recognized with the Circle of Excellence award as one of the top 20% of firms for the last 12 years by PSMJ Resource, so you can work with one of the best!  DGR has also been named by the Des Moines Register as a Top Workplace since 2018.

DGR Engineering offers a competitive salary and benefits package with the opportunity for advancement and ownership in a challenging and professional work environment.   Our competitive benefits package includes:

  • Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
  • Healthcare and Dependent Care Flex Spending Accounts
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Short Term and Long Term Disability Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan w/Company Match
  • Employee Profit Sharing
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Holidays

The DGR Engineering Electrical Power Department in Rock Rapids, Iowa specializes in the planning and design of infrastructure improvements for electrical power utilities in the upper Midwest. Typical projects include power generation, substation, transmission and distribution systems design and construction management.

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Have the ability to review and understand technical drawings and specifications.
  • Perform general engineering tasks supporting project team members as required.  This is expected to include calculations, design layouts, sizing and selecting equipment, developing cost estimates, preparation of specifications and other assigned tasks.
  • Coordinate and support the project design with other disciplines, including Civil, Architectural, Structural and Electrical staff.
  • Ability to establish and meet project deadlines.
  • Ability to travel within the region to Clients and jobsites.
  • Be able to gain familiarity with engineering and design software as needed.  Desirable experience in: Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, Teams), Adobe or Bluebeam, AutoCAD, GIS, Milsoft.
  • Possess skills to work independently as well as part of a team.
  • Possess good communication skills and the ability to work with a wide variety of clients.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Associate degree in a relevant discipline or Construction Management degree.
  • Familiarity with electrical power systems and construction practices.
  • Electrical system knowledge is not a prerequisite.

DGR Engineering is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).  DGR Engineering complies with all applicable federal, state and local laws regarding hiring and employment. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or veteran status.

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