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Construction Internship Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Construction Management Intern

Iowa City, IA ยท On-site

$13 - $17.50/hr

This internship provides a structured, site-based learning experience, allowing interns to immerse themselves in the project and construction management environment. Participants will engage in a ...

Construction Management Intern

Iowa City, IA

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

This internship provides a structured, site-based learning experience, allowing interns to immerse themselves in the project and construction management environment. Participants will engage in a ...

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Construction Internship information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$16

$22

How much do construction internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for construction internship in Iowa is $16.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a construction internship?

A construction internship is a temporary position designed for students or recent graduates to gain hands-on experience in the construction industry. Interns typically work alongside experienced professionals on job sites or in offices, assisting with tasks such as project management, site supervision, safety checks, and documentation. The internship provides valuable insight into how construction projects are planned, managed, and executed, helping interns build practical skills and industry knowledge. It also offers networking opportunities and can often lead to full-time employment after graduation.

What types of hands-on experience can I expect during a construction internship?

As a construction intern, you can expect to gain hands-on experience in various aspects of project management and site operations. Typical responsibilities include assisting with project documentation, shadowing site supervisors, helping with quality control checks, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. Interns often collaborate with engineers, architects, and skilled tradespeople, providing a well-rounded exposure to the construction process. This experience helps build valuable industry knowledge, practical skills, and professional relationships that can support your future career growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a construction intern?

To thrive as a Construction Intern, you generally need a foundational understanding of construction principles, safety protocols, and enrollment in or completion of a relevant academic program such as civil engineering or construction management. Familiarity with construction management software (like Procore or AutoCAD), Microsoft Office, and basic measurement tools is typically expected. Strong communication, teamwork, and a willingness to learn make candidates stand out in this hands-on environment. These skills and qualities are crucial for contributing effectively to projects, ensuring safety, and supporting the successful delivery of construction tasks.

What is the difference between Construction Internship vs Construction Assistant?

AspectConstruction InternshipConstruction Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically students or recent graduates; may require coursework in construction or engineeringUsually entry-level; may require some experience or certifications like OSHA
Work EnvironmentOn-site, supervised, learning-focusedOn-site, assisting with daily tasks, more hands-on
Employer & Industry UsageInternships offered by construction firms, contractors, or engineering companiesEntry-level support roles in construction projects

Construction internships are primarily educational opportunities for students or recent graduates to gain industry experience, while construction assistants are entry-level roles supporting ongoing projects. Internships focus on learning, whereas assistants perform practical tasks to support project operations.

What does a construction internship do?

A construction internship provides hands-on experience in construction sites, allowing interns to learn about project planning, safety procedures, and the use of tools and equipment. Interns often assist with tasks such as site inspections, document management, and supporting project teams, gaining practical skills relevant to a career in construction. The internship may also involve exposure to industry standards and safety certifications like OSHA.

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

The most popular types of Construction jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Construction Internship jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Construction Internship job openings:

Infographic showing various Construction Internship job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,809 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Senior Construction Project Engineer

Ryan Companies Inc.

Des Moines, IA โ€ข On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Work with the preconstruction team and project managers to develop project estimates and manage project scope.

  • Perform quantity take-offs, create and review estimates, and solicit subcontractor pricing for budgeting and bid proposals.

  • Create preconstruction schedules, support development teams with cost validation and project scheduling, and review project estimates.


Job description

## Senior Preconstruction EngineerApplyremote type: On-Sitelocations: Des Moines: Cedar Rapidstime type: Full timeposted on: Posted 3 Days Agojob requisition id: R-101817**Job Description:**Ryan Companies has an immediate need for a Senior Preconstruction Engineer for its Des Moines OR Cedar Rapids, Iowa office. Recent college graduates with a degree in construction management, civil engineering, or an engineering discipline with a strong interest in a career in construction management are invited to apply.With more than 80 years in business and 15 offices (and growing!), Ryan offers comprehensive commercial real estate solutions to customers across the US. We bring a collaborative, relationship-driven approach to delivering spaces where people thrive and businesses succeed. Join a company with an outstanding culture and competitive benefits. At Ryan, we donโ€™t just build buildings โ€“ we build stories.**Some things you can expect to do:*** Work with preconstruction team and project managers to develop conceptual and detailed estimates* Perform quantity take-offs of all construction systems* Create project estimates individually and with a team* Solicit subcontractor pricing for budgeting and bid proposals* Scope and select subcontractors based on best value and project requirements* Record final estimates and maintain cost history* Create, track, and manage project scope* Participate and review buyout and GMP estimates* Create preconstruction schedules with project management and field personal* Support development, architectural and construction teams with preconstruction expertise including value design, cost validation, project scheduling, procurement and project pursuits* Consistently achieves appropriate project estimates* Review and provide feedback on project estimates created by the project managers* Provide direction for understanding project scope, market pricing and available resources* Assist clients and developers with conceptual budgets of various types of projects* Capable of cost modeling using Uniformat II system costs* Learn CSI and Uniformat II**Some things we would like you to have:*** 4-year construction engineering or construction management degree* Knowledge of construction means and methods, building types and procurement methods* Ability to read and understand project plans and details* Ability to perform thoughtful and accurate quantity take offs, and summarize data in a meaningful way* Positive and effective communication abilities* Ability to teach skills and knowledge to others* Ability to listen, prioritize and value the opinions of others* Prior construction experience in the field or office is a PLUS.* An interest in learning Destini Estimating platform, OST, Bluebeam, BuildingConnected, JOIN, VICO, Navisworks, and Revit.* Recent college graduates WILL be considered.* You will really stand out if you have construction internship experience and up to 3 or 4 years of construction management experience.**Eligibility:**Position requires verification of employment to work in the U.S.**Benefits:*** Competitive Salary* Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits* Retirement and Savings Benefits* Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts* Life Insurance* Short-Term and Long-Term Disability* Educational Assistance* Paid Time Off (PTO)* Employee Assistance and Wellness Programs* Parenting Benefits* Employee Discount Programs* Pet insurance* Ryan Foundation โ€“ charitable matching funds* Paid Time for Volunteer Events*Disclaimer: Eligibility may vary based on factors such as role, hours worked, employment status, length of service, location, and other considerations. Detailed information will be shared with eligible candidates during the hiring process, and the official terms and conditions will be outlined in each individual offer document.*Ryan Companies is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. #J-18808-Ljbffr