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Civil Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Civil Engineer Co-Op

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$18.50 - $21/hr

Civil Engineer Co-Op - Fall 2026 (August - December) Our Civil Engineering team is excited to add a student for the Summer semester. You will work alongside talented and knowledgeable civil engineers ...

AECOM is currently seeking talented Civil Engineer with experience in either site, roadway, municipal or airports. Also a background in lighting/signage installation, navigational aids, drainage ...

Civil Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Performing civil design, planning, construction support, and client management services for General Aviation and Commercial Air Service Airports * Plan, direct and monitor all aspects of engineering ...

Civil Engineer

Keokuk, IA · On-site

$75K - $175K/yr

A Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering * Experience: Minimum 5+ years' experience * Licensure: Illinois Professional Engineer (or can obtain through reciprocity) * Knowledge: Solid understanding of ...

IMEG is seeking a Senior Civil Engineer specializing in civil site design, infrastructure, and/orwater/wastewater design to join our Civil team in Omaha, Nebraska. In this role, you will lead and ...

We are seeking a Sr. Civil Engineer to lead Site Engineering and Development projects for a growing client in Davenport, IAfor both public and private work. This person would be responsible for their ...

As a Civil Engineer in the Atlantic office, you'll work with a growing team of engineers and other specialists who focus on the municipal, development, transportation, and water resources projects.

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Showing results 1-20

Civil Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$35.7K

$77.7K

$115.5K

How much do civil engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for civil engineer in Iowa is $77,652.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,400.00 and $92,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Civil Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, mathematics, and design, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in civil engineering and an Engineer in Training (EIT) or Professional Engineer (PE) license. Proficiency with technical tools like AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and project management software is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are critical soft skills in this field. These skills and qualifications ensure the safe, efficient, and successful completion of infrastructure projects, meeting both technical standards and client needs.

What type of jobs do civil engineers do?

Civil engineers design, construct, and maintain infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, buildings, dams, and water supply systems. They analyze project requirements, create plans using engineering software, and oversee construction to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.

What Is a Civil Engineer?

Civil engineers design and plan massive infrastructure projects, including roadways and airports. Other large-scale construction projects that they may oversee, include buildings, tunnels, bridges, dams, and sewage treatment and water supply systems. They have to assess the feasibility of plans in regards to safety concerns and financial costs, and they often work directly with regional and urban planners. Ultimately, civil engineers are charged with managing the design and implementation of the infrastructure for a project. They lead construction managers, civil engineering technicians, surveyors, and other professionals to execute their plans and ensure that projects comply with regulations. As a subset of civil engineering, geotechnical engineers investigate and analyze what lies beneath the earth’s surface.

What is the difference between Civil Engineer vs Structural Engineer?

AspectCivil EngineerStructural Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Civil Engineering, PE license often requiredBachelor's in Civil or Structural Engineering, PE license often required
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, design offices, urban planningDesign offices, construction sites, specialized structural analysis
Industry UsageBroadly involved in infrastructure, transportation, water resourcesFocused on structural integrity of buildings, bridges, towers
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While both Civil Engineers and Structural Engineers hold similar credentials and often work in overlapping environments, Civil Engineers have a broader scope, handling various infrastructure projects. Structural Engineers specialize in analyzing and designing structural components to ensure safety and stability. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or consulting the appropriate professional for your project needs.

What are the typical challenges civil engineers face when working on large infrastructure projects?

Civil engineers working on large infrastructure projects often navigate challenges such as coordinating with multidisciplinary teams, managing tight project timelines, and ensuring compliance with complex regulatory requirements. They must also address unexpected site conditions or environmental concerns that can impact design and construction. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are crucial for overcoming these obstacles and delivering successful project outcomes.

Can you make $500,000 as a civil engineer?

Earning $500,000 as a civil engineer is uncommon and typically requires extensive experience, advanced certifications, specialized skills, or leadership roles in large projects. Most civil engineers earn a median salary significantly lower, but top earners in senior positions or consulting roles can approach high six-figure incomes. Factors such as location, industry, and project complexity influence earning potential.

What do civil engineers do?

Civil engineers design, build, supervise, operate, and maintain infrastructure projects and systems such as roads, bridges, airports, tunnels, dams, and water supply systems. They work in both the public and private sectors, ensuring that structures are safe, efficient, and environmentally sustainable. Civil engineers also assess environmental impact, manage construction projects, and ensure compliance with regulations and codes.

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 compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, managing large projects, or holding executive-level positions.

What does a civil engineer usually do?

A civil engineer designs, plans, and oversees the construction of infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, dams, and buildings. They analyze project requirements, create technical drawings, and ensure safety and compliance with regulations using tools like CAD software. Civil engineers often work in the field and office, requiring strong problem-solving skills and relevant licensure.
What are the most commonly searched types of Civil Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Civil Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Civil Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Civil Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Civil Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Civil Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Civil Engineer job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,652 per year, or $37.3 per hour.

Experienced Civil Engineer

Snyder & Associates

Council Bluffs, IA

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Life At Snyder

Over 40 years since its inception, Snyder & Associates has grown to become a large regional civil engineering and planning firm in the midwest. With thirteen office locations in five states, the communities we serve are the same places we proudly call home. For us, it’s about more than just the project at hand. It’s about improving community quality of life, which is why 94 percent of our clients continue to trust us as an extension of their staff. As a member of our Council Bluffs, Iowa office you’ll work alongside civil engineers, landscape architects,  design technicians, and specialists. Watch the Snyder & Associates About Us Video to learn more.

Your Opportunity

This is your next great opportunity. As a Civil Engineer in the Council Bluffs office, you'll work with a fast growing team of engineers and other specialists who focus on the municipal, transportation, and water resources projects. During the beginning phases of a project, you'll listen intently to the project managers to help in designing fit-for purpose solutions. Through our flexible management approach, you'll be empowered to carve your own path to professional growth through innovation and continuous improvement.


Proven Leader

This role requires dedication to the assigned duties and objectives toward creating successful projects. You’ll contribute directly to project success through active efforts in developing plans from conceptualization through construction. Our firm is driven by challenges and prepared for more—we desire individuals who will commit to this pursuit, while maintaining our founding vision of responsive, personal service. For a sampling of the type of work you’ll help us pursue and be involved with, please visit our services web page and our project page.

Fundamental Responsibilities

  • Contribute to diverse projects that vary widely in complexity and scope. This is a hands-on role that is directly involved in the planning, design, and delivery of projects from start to finish.
  • Adapt to a variety of assignments and roles within medium- to large-sized teams of professionals, designers, and planners, as needed.
  • Strive to meet and exceed team and client expectations by building positive working relationships through proactive communication, commitment to service, and the flexibility to address shifting priorities.
  • Manage your pace and productivity to keep projects within budget.
  • Maintain a high standard of quality, creativity, and collaboration within your project team.
  • Effectively interact with people of all technical skill levels through verbal and written communication.

Required Qualifications

  • Prior experience functioning as a civil engineer, preferably in a consulting environment
  • BS Degree in civil engineering or construction engineering.
  • Must be on pace to acquire PE designation.
  • Prior experience as a civil or construction engineering, ideally in a consulting environment.
  • A sound understanding of civil engineering fundamentals.
  • Effective time management skills particularly in relationship to commitments on project designs and deliverables.
  • Strong interpersonal and team skills leading to positive, ongoing relationships with people.
  • Reliable and dependable, able to commit to regular attendance and at times put in extra hours to meet project demands.
  • Well-developed written and verbal communication skills with the ability to clearly communicate technical subject matter to diverse audiences.

EOE /  E-Verify