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City Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 is responsible supporting project teams with on-site administrative and ...

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 ...

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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 14, 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 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.

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 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 62% Full Time, 36% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,400 per year, or $48.8 per hour.

Water Resources Civil Engineer II

City of Dubuque

Dubuque, IA • On-site

$86K - $112K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Position Summary GENERAL SUMMARY: Under the general supervision of the City Engineer perform engineering duties in planning, budgeting, designing, and overseeing construction, maintenance and management of City infrastructure in compliance with state and federal regulations. Projects include design work with the sanitary sewer collection system, stormwater management facilities, potable water distribution facilities, roadway, maintenance of traffic, and fiber optic communication facilities. Role will be to perform civil engineering design and supervisory work, supervising Engineers, Water Resources Project Supervisor, Engineering Technicians and support staff, and perform other duties as assigned.

The ideal candidate possesses the ability to follow a management style that is input-oriented and values problem solving and the development of partnerships; the ability to collaborate with others; and the desire to be part of an organization that values service, people, integrity, responsibility, innovation and teamwork. DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: Work involves the technical responsibility for the design, construction and management of sanitary sewer collection system and/or stormwater management facilities encompassing the water resource program projects. Work involves administrative and budgetary duties.

Supervise employees and direct the work of consultants in preparing construction plans and specifications, inspecting construction activity and handling project financing. Work is performed in accordance with established standards and policies. Employees are expected to exercise individual initiative, judgment and discretion.

The City Engineer provide general supervision and review work through observation, conferences and results achieved. Job Duties Job Duties Serve as a project engineer for the planning, design, and execution of public infrastructure projects. Respond in a timely manner to requests from both internal and external sources, Be proactive in addressing issues brought to one's attention and elevate the appropriate issues to supervisor's attention, Works with draftspersons / technicians during design to produce working drawings, Prepare engineering designs and technical reports for public infrastructure projects.

Conducts the planning, design and preparation of project drawings, specifications and estimates for assigned projects, Ensure designs adhere to local, state, and federal regulations, and safety standards. Conduct technical analysis to inform project decisions. Advises on feasibility of public infrastructure projects, Perform preliminary engineering evaluations, including but not limited to site investigation reports, quantity take-offs and opinions of probable construction cost, Analyze and prepare reports, maps, drawings, blueprints, tests, and aerial photographs on composition, terrain, hydrological characteristics, and other topographical and geologic data to plan and design public infrastructure projects, Prepares or directs preparation and modification of reports, specifications, plans, construction schedules, impact studies, and designs for public infrastructure project, Uses computer assisted engineering and design software and equipment to prepare engineering and design documents, Stay up-to-date with changes in public infrastructure regulations and industry standards.

Conduct regular site inspections to ensure work meets engineering specifications and quality standards. Prepare technical reports, progress updates, and other documentation as required. Maintain accurate project records and ensure all necessary documentation is submitted to stakeholders and regulatory agencies Review proposed public and private developments public infrastructure impacts.

Ensure project or program success. Develop and implement technical methods or processes. Evaluate technical data to determine effect on designs or plans.

Implement design or process improvements. Analyze operational data to evaluate operations, processes or products. Reviews proposed public and private developments as they pertain to work within the City Right-of-Way and impacts to City infrastructure.

Ensures compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This includes understanding the rights of people with disabilities and the obligations of local governments as well as ensuring that all projects and facilities comply with ADA requirements. Serves as the project engineer of record for the planning, design, and execution of public infrastructure projects.

Monitor and evaluate project progress, identifying and resolving any issues or delays. Aid in the development and oversight of capital improvement program (CIP) project scopes: outlining project need and source of funding, designing improvements and preparing bid/construction documents with design team, and managing staff and contractors through construction. Manages consultant and contractor selection process, Lead and supervise a multidisciplinary team of engineers, technicians, and other project staff.

Assign tasks and ensure appropriate delegation of responsibilities within the team. Mentor the project team on procedures, calculations, regulatory requirements, and engineering practice, Directs and supervises other engineer's activities Lead technical teams and provide quality reviews to deliverables, Supervises and/or conducts the planning, design and preparation of project drawings, specifications and estimates for assigned projects, Review and approve engineering designs and technical reports for public infrastructure projects. Ability to look ahead on projects to identify possible challenges and identify options to navigate them.

This includes effectively communicating internally and externally about the challenge(s). Prepare and deliver presentations and reports to clients, government bodies, and other involved parties. Explain project and program details to the City Council, City staff members and the general public; and give presentations.

Seek feedback and input from citizens, stakeholders and project partners. Ensure clear and consistent communication regarding project goals, timelines, and deliverables. Represents the department and oversees project staff/contractors and attends meetings at various sites, Coordinates the work of multi-disciplinary technical staff across organizational boundaries, Confers with stakeholders to establish project requirements for public infrastructure projects, Assures that the project's program and conceptual design meet the stakeholder's needs and are compatible with master plans, Ensure all projects comply with federal, state, and local regulations, and safety standards; anticipating future legislation; enforcing adherence to requirements; and advising management on needed actions, Monitor procurement of materials, equipment, and services needed for the project.

Ensure that projects stay within budgetary constraints without compromising quality. Continuously manage multiple projects or portions of projects of any size and complexity from initiation to closeout and warranty period, Responsible for control of work-in-process, Coordinates and approves pricing, estimating, scoping for proposed project contracts, Review and approve monthly invoices, Prepares and monitors budget reports and cost control analyses to keeps projects within approved budgets and on their approved schedule, Implement and monitor quality assurance/quality control procedures throughout the project lifecycle. Monitor compliance to applicable codes, practices, QA/QC policies, performance standards, and specifications, Tracks and monitors all project activities; inspects or reviews work under construction to make sure that all new construction and alteration work being performed by contractors complies with plans, specifications and codes.

Perform other duties as assigned. Qualifications MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's (4-year) degree or major coursework Water Resources or Environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field; Four (4) years of experience performing municipal engineering work specific to sanitary sewer collection systems and stormwater management facilities. Registration as a Professional Engineer by time of appointment.

Registration as a Professional Engineer with the Iowa State Board of Engineering Examiners within six months of appointment. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Certified Stormwater Manager (CSM) Certification Project Management Certification (National Industry Organization) Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Master's (6-year) degree or major coursework in Civil, Municipal, Water Resource, or Environmental Engineering, or a related field. WORKING CONDITIONS: Duties include standing, bending, squatting, and lifting up to 40 pounds with assistance; includes working indoors and outdoors in all types of weather conditions.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Possession of a valid driver's license and automobile insurance coverage consistent with city requirements. RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT: Employee shall establish their principal place of residence within fifty (50) miles of the corporate limits of the city of Dubuque as soon as practical after appointment, but within two years of appointment. SUPERVISORY STATUS: Functional FLSA STATUS: Exempt Our Commitment to You The City of Dubuque is committed to using a merit-based system in which recruiting, selecting, and advancing employees is based on their relative knowledge, skills, and abilities, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws.

Our organization provides equal opportunities for all individuals, fostering a workplace that values innovation, collaboration, and work-life balance. We offer job stability, a comprehensive benefits package, and an opportunity to serve and support our growing community. In accordance with legal obligations our policies and practices are designed to ensure fair treatment and foster a respectful workplace where all are encouraged to apply.