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Building Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

We believe building engineering is more than systems and structures, it's about powering progress and enabling innovation. As part of HDR's Building Engineering Services Group, you'll help design the ...

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Building Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$16

$30

$49

How much do building engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for building engineer in Iowa is $30.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.94 and $34.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges Building Engineers face in managing multiple facility systems simultaneously?

Building Engineers often oversee several complex systems such as HVAC, electrical, and plumbing within a facility. A common challenge is prioritizing urgent repairs while maintaining routine preventative maintenance schedules. Effective time management and communication with other departments are essential to minimize downtime and ensure building occupants’ comfort and safety. Collaboration with vendors and contractors also plays a key role when resolving specialized system issues.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-paying engineering positions often require advanced degrees, professional certifications, and working in high-demand industries or executive-level positions.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or software engineering with senior or executive roles can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive industry experience, and may include bonuses or stock options.

How much do building engineers make?

Building engineers in New York City typically earn an average salary of around $70,000 to $90,000 per year, depending on experience, certifications, and the size of the building. Salaries can vary based on the complexity of the building systems managed and the engineer's technical skills.

What is the difference between Building Engineer vs Facility Technician?

AspectBuilding EngineerFacility Technician
CertificationsHVAC, electrical, plumbing licensesHVAC, electrical, plumbing certifications
Work EnvironmentCommercial, industrial buildings, maintenanceBuilding systems, equipment repair, preventive maintenance
Employer & IndustryProperty management, real estate, facilities managementFacilities management, maintenance services

Building Engineers and Facility Technicians often share certifications and work in similar environments, focusing on maintaining building systems. Building Engineers typically have broader responsibilities, including overseeing multiple systems and performing complex repairs, while Facility Technicians focus on specific equipment maintenance and troubleshooting. Both roles are essential for building operations and are frequently searched together by employers and job seekers.

What does a building engineer do?

A building engineer is responsible for maintaining and operating the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems of a building to ensure safety, efficiency, and comfort. They perform routine inspections, troubleshoot issues, and may hold certifications such as HVAC or facilities management to perform their duties effectively.

What is a Building Engineer?

A Building Engineer is a professional responsible for the operation, maintenance, and repair of a building's systems, such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), electrical, plumbing, and structural components. They ensure that all systems function efficiently and safely, often performing regular inspections and troubleshooting issues as they arise. Building Engineers may work in residential, commercial, or industrial properties and coordinate with other contractors or technicians to address complex problems. Their role is essential for maintaining the comfort, safety, and value of a property.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Building Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Building Engineer, you need a solid understanding of building systems, HVAC, electrical, and plumbing, typically supported by a relevant technical degree or certification. Familiarity with building automation systems (BAS), maintenance management software, and industry certifications such as EPA or LEED are commonly required. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and time-management skills help you efficiently address tenant needs and coordinate with contractors or facility managers. These competencies ensure building safety, operational efficiency, and occupant satisfaction in complex property environments.
More about Building Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Building Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Building Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Building Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Building Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Building Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Building Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Building Engineer job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, 42% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,199 per year, or $30.4 per hour.

Senior Structural Engineer - Building Design

Olsson

Des Moines, IA • Hybrid

$98K - $133K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 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's Facilities Engineering and Design Team is at the forefront of engineering innovation, providing comprehensive services for large commercial developments, healthcare facilities, laboratories, educational institutions, data centers, and military installations. Our expertise includes engineering analysis, design services, and professional consulting, ensuring top-tier quality and world class installations. We also provide building inspection and forensic investigation services. As a member of this team, you will contribute to diverse, high-impact projects, delivering engineering solutions that make a tangible difference in communities and industries.

As a Senior Structural Engineer on our North Central Facilities Engineering and Design team, you will manage the design production of projects by leading staff to complete projects in accordance with the project schedule as well as providing high level technical support for other engineers on the project team. You will lead project quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) activities. You will act as an advisor on complex projects and apply advanced experience to make recommendations and decisions regarding project design work.

Primary responsibilities:

  • Lead structural design for varied and complex projects, integrating innovative engineering solutions across multiple materials (steel, concrete, wood, masonry).
  • Supervise and mentor junior engineers, fostering skill development and professional growth.
  • Perform advanced structural analyses and present findings in clear, comprehensive reports.
  • Contribute to the production of a project when needed.
  • Perform QA/QC and ensure delivery of completed designs meets quality standards and project objectives.
  • Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless project integration and promote efficiencies.
  • Contribute to the development of standards and/or guidelines for engineering activities within the team.
  • Engage with clients to understand technical needs, provide strategic insights, and support business development by showcasing Olsson's technical capabilities and expertise.
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 or Architectural Engineering.
  • Masters degree in Civil or Architectural Engineering (structural emphasis) is preferred, but not required.
  • Must be a registered professional engineer.
  • 12 – 20+ years of relevant experience.
  • Experience utilizing structural design and drafting software packages.
  • Proficient in Autodesk Revit.

#LI-RS1 #LI-Hybrid

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.