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City Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Senior Civil Engineer

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$97K - $134K/yr

City Hall, 405 6th Street, Sioux City, IA Job Type: Full Time Job Number: 202600093 Department: Public Works Engineering Division: Public Works Engineering Opening Date: 08/26/2026 Closing Date: 9/26 ...

Municipal Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$75K - $150K/yr

Municipal Engineer Department: Civil Employment Type: Full Time Location: Des Moines, IA Compensation: $75,000 - $150,000 / year Description Founded in 1973, ISG is a multi-disciplinary, full-service ...

Pipe layer

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Sioux City Engineering Company has been operating in the tri-state area for 65 plus years. We are a family run business where our employees become like part of the family. Pay: $20 - $26 per hour ...

Pipe layer

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Sioux City Engineering Company has been operating in the tri-state area for 65 plus years. We are a family run business where our employees become like part of the family. Pay: $20 - $26 per hour ...

Civil Engineer

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$79K - $108K/yr

City Hall, 405 6th Street, Sioux City, IA Job Type: Full Time Job Number: 202600094 Department: Public Works Engineering Division: Public Works Engineering Opening Date: 08/26/2026 Closing Date: 9/26 ...

Controls Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$74K - $95K/yr

Tri-City Group is seeking an experienced Controls Engineer for Davenport, IA. The controls engineer will be responsible for consulting, gathering design information, meeting with customers ...

Controls Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$74K - $95K/yr

Tri-City Group is seeking an experienced Controls Engineer for Davenport, IA. The controls engineer will be responsible for consulting, gathering design information, meeting with customers ...

Controls Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$74K - $95K/yr

Tri-City Group is seeking an experienced Controls Engineer for Davenport, IA. The controls engineer will be responsible for consulting, gathering design information, meeting with customers ...

Civil Engineer I

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$96K - $122K/yr

General Statement of Duties The Civil Engineer I works in various locations across the City of Des Moines performing a variety of functions including; developing, designing, and supervising public ...

Civil Engineer II

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$108K - $137K/yr

General Statement of Duties The Civil Engineer II works in various locations across the City of Des Moines performing a variety of functions including; coordinating the design and construction of ...

Civil Engineer I

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$96K - $122K/yr

Engineering Opening Date: 08/27/2026 Closing Date: 9/18/2026 4:00 PM Central FLSA: Exempt ... The City of Des Moines promotes a healthy work life balance and offers a comprehensive benefits ...

Tri-City Group is currently seeking a Project Engineer for an immediate opening in Cedar Rapids, IA. The Project Engineer will be responsible for providing overall Administration and Technical ...

Tri-City Group is currently seeking a Project Engineer for an immediate opening in Cedar Rapids, IA. The Project Engineer will be responsible for providing overall Administration and Technical ...

Civil Engineer II

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$108K - $137K/yr

Engineering Division: EG060072 - EG Design / Project Management Opening Date: 08/27/2026 Closing ... The City of Des Moines promotes a healthy work life balance and offers a comprehensive benefits ...

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City Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$22.5K

$101.4K

$161.6K

How much do city engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for city engineer in Iowa is $101,400.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,400.00 and $125,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a city engineer?

A City Engineer is a professional responsible for planning, designing, and overseeing the construction and maintenance of public infrastructure within a city, such as roads, bridges, water systems, and public buildings. They ensure that city projects comply with safety and environmental regulations, manage budgets, and coordinate with other governmental departments and contractors. City Engineers play a crucial role in urban development and the quality of public services, helping to create safe and efficient communities.

What does a city engineer do?

A city engineer works for a city government. They plan community land use, study environmental impact, design infrastructure, make zoning recommendations, research usage recommendations, and oversee project execution. Additional job duties involve exploring project viability, coordinating contractors, presenting progress reports, and managing the project budget. Though much of this job takes place in an office, a city engineer is required to enter the field on a regular basis. Qualifications for this career include a bachelor’s or master’s degree in civil engineering.

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

To thrive as a City Engineer, you need a strong background in civil engineering, urban infrastructure design, and project management, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in civil engineering and a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with CAD software, GIS systems, and construction management platforms is commonly required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help City Engineers coordinate with public agencies, contractors, and community stakeholders. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and sustainable urban development that meets regulatory standards and public needs.

What are some common challenges city engineers face when managing urban infrastructure projects?

City Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing budget constraints with the need for high-quality infrastructure, coordinating with multiple government departments, and addressing public concerns during project planning and execution. Additionally, they must navigate regulatory requirements and unforeseen issues like weather delays or utility conflicts. Effective communication and strong project management skills are essential to ensure projects are completed safely, on time, and within budget.

What is the difference between City Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectCity EngineerCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil Engineering, PE license often preferredBachelor's in Civil Engineering, PE license often required
Work EnvironmentMunicipal government, urban planning projectsConstruction sites, consulting firms, infrastructure projects
Employer & Industry UsageCity governments, public sectorPrivate firms, engineering consulting, construction companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a City Engineer and a Civil Engineer lies in their work scope and environment. A City Engineer typically works within municipal government focusing on urban infrastructure and public projects, often requiring a PE license. Civil Engineers have a broader role in designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure across various sectors, including private firms and consulting. While both roles require similar credentials, their work settings and responsibilities differ significantly.

How much do city engineers make?

City engineers in Texas typically earn an average annual salary of around $85,000 to $105,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries can vary based on the size of the city, level of responsibility, and additional certifications such as PE (Professional Engineer).

What are the most commonly searched types of City Engineer jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of City Engineer jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to City Engineer jobs in Iowa?

For City Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching City Engineer jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for City Engineer jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for City Engineer jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most City Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to City Engineer jobs in IA?

For City Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various City Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 42% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,400 per year, or $48.8 per hour.

Senior Civil Engineer

City of Sioux City, IA

Sioux City, IA • On-site

$97K - $134K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Salary : $97,959.26 - $134,063.28 Annually
Location : City Hall, 405 6th Street, Sioux City, IA
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 202600093
Department: Public Works Engineering
Division: Public Works Engineering
Opening Date: 08/26/2026
Closing Date: 9/26/2026 11:59 PM Central
Description
Under the general direction of the City Engineer, performs administrative and professional engineering work in assisting the City Engineer in directing a major engineering program in relation to the design, construction, maintenance and development of public works and utility facilities.
Duties
  • Assists the City Engineer in the administration of the Engineering Division.
  • Designs streets, water systems, and sewer systems.
  • Supervises CIP, private development, and construction projects.
  • Supervises preparation of construction plans.
  • Addresses citizen concerns and complaints.
  • Assumes responsibility for the design and preparation of plans and specifications and the survey, construction, and inspection of street, airport, bridge, sidewalk, sewer, and related municipal improvements.
  • Directs professional and sub-professional subordinates in the department in the study, development and design of a variety of engineering projects.
  • Directs research studies and compilation of comprehensive reports.
  • As assigned and in the absence of the City Engineer, directs all activities of the Engineering Division.
  • Supervises the preparation and review of plans, estimates, inspections, reports, contract documents and similar materials for major projects.
  • Assists in the formulation of long range programs of public works and utility engineering improvements.
  • Prepares cost estimates on engineering projects.
  • Maintains regular and punctual attendance and working hours.
  • Regularly lifts up to 10 pounds and occasionally lifts up to 30 pounds.
  • Expected to temporarily perform duties outside of normal classification in the event of a declared emergency. In the event that an employee is excused from work other than being sick, they will be required to report to work in a state of declared emergency.

Qualifications
Cognitive Demands, Skills and Abilities: Ability to speak clearly so others can understand you, ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer), ability to see details at a distance, ability to identify and understand the speech of another person, ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Job Knowledge: Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of civil engineering as related to the preparation of plans and specifications for a variety of public works projects; thorough knowledge of modern methods and techniques as applied to the design, construction, and maintenance of public works projects; thorough knowledge of the land and engineering survey systems, methods and techniques; thorough knowledge of the principles, practices and techniques of engineering drafting; strong knowledge of current developments and literature in the field of civil engineering; strong knowledge of and proficient in the use of the AutoCAD family of engineering tools; ability to develop and/or utilize automated project management techniques; ability to instruct subordinate personnel in proper work methods and to supervise their work; ability to adapt approved engineering methods and standards to the design, construction and maintenance of a variety of public works projects; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with subordinates, associates, representatives of other agencies, municipal officials and the general public; ability to express ideas clearly and concisely, orally and in writing; good physical condition.
Language Ability and Interpersonal Communication: Requires effective communication skills and the ability to provide assistance to customers (external and internal). Re-quires the ability to write and speak effectively with fellow employees, City Council, and the general public; read in English; apply common sense understanding to the work process, procedures, programs and services; and to provide and follow verbal and written instructions. Requires the ability to work as a member of a team in order to accomplish tasks; the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees and the general public; and the ability to relate to minorities, women, and other protected classes in the community at all socioeconomic levels.
Physical Requirements: Regularly lifts up to 10 pounds and occasionally lifts up to 30 pounds.
Work Environment: Seventy percent of work is normally performed in a normal inside office environment with appropriate heating and cooling and is not subject to significant occupational or environmental hazards other than those normally associated with general public contact, dust or odors. Field conditions outdoors are varying weather conditions, with varying street level noises; and visiting locations within the community whose environment may be different from the City's. Travel in all types of weather extremes to attend training and/or organizes meetings conferences, and workshops; must be mobile and able to visit complainants and businesses within the metro area.
Minimum Required Qualifications
Possession of a valid driver's license or the ability to provide reliable transportation. Registered as a Professional Engineer with the Iowa State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers, or the ability to obtain an Iowa Professional Engineering License through comity within six months.
Bachelor's degree in civil engineering or related field and seven years' experience. Any equivalent combination of experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skill and abilities.
For Full-Time employees and qualifying Transit and Library Part-Time employees, the City of Sioux City offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes Medical, Dental, Vision, Flex Spending Accounts, Life, Disability and Retirement. For more information on the benefits available, please visit our