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Construction Observer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Cesco

Construction Account Manager

Des Moines, IA · On-site

As a Construction Account Manager at Crescent Electric, you will create and maintain solid ... Communicates competitive conditions, observed customer financial weakness, and customer feedback to ...

Abaci Consulting, Inc.

Civil Engineer (PE)

Grimes, IA · On-site

Deliver complete and accurate project design assignments within schedule and budget parameters * Assist with performing onsite construction administration and construction observation services ...

DGR Engineering

WASTEWATER ENGINEER

Rock Rapids, IA · On-site

Provide construction administration and construction observation services * Collaborate with project managers, clients, contractors, and regulatory agencies Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsConstruction Observer JobsConstruction Observer Jobs in Iowa

Construction Observer information

See Iowa salary details

$37.6K

$89.4K

$141.8K

How much do construction observer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for construction observer in Iowa is $89,388.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,700.00 and $108,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Construction Observer, you need a keen understanding of construction methods, materials, site safety practices, and quality control, typically supported by experience in civil engineering, construction management, or a related field. Familiarity with project management software, field reporting tools, and relevant certifications such as OSHA training or NICET can be highly beneficial. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective verbal and written communication skills set exceptional Construction Observers apart. These abilities ensure projects meet specifications, safety standards, and regulatory requirements while fostering clear communication among project stakeholders.

What is a construction observer?

A Construction Observer monitors and inspects construction projects to ensure compliance with plans, specifications, and regulations. They document progress, identify potential issues, and communicate with contractors, engineers, and project managers. Their role helps ensure quality control, adherence to safety standards, and timely project completion. Observers often work on-site, conducting field reports and verifying that work meets design requirements.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a construction observer?

As a Construction Observer, your day-to-day responsibilities include monitoring construction activities to ensure compliance with project plans, specifications, and safety regulations. You will document field observations, prepare daily reports, take photographs, and communicate findings to project managers and engineers. Collaboration is key, as you'll work closely with contractors, inspectors, and various team members to resolve issues and clarify project requirements. This role keeps you actively engaged on-site and is vital to maintaining construction quality and progress. You can expect a dynamic work environment with opportunities to develop strong technical and interpersonal skills.

What do construction observers do?

Construction observers monitor ongoing construction activities to ensure compliance with safety standards, building codes, and project specifications. They inspect work sites, document progress, and identify potential issues, often using checklists and safety equipment. Their role helps maintain quality and safety throughout the construction process.

How much does a construction observer make?

Construction observers typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the projects they oversee. They often work full-time schedules and may need safety certifications or knowledge of construction standards.
What are popular job titles related to Construction Observer jobs in Iowa? For Construction Observer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Construction Observer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Construction Observer jobs in Iowa are:
Construction Observer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Construction Observer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,388 per year, or $43 per hour.

Electrical Engineer

Shive Hattery Group, Inc.

West Des Moines, IA • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Description

Let's Do great things-Together


At Shive-Hattery, we believe great design starts with great people. We're a full-service architecture and engineering firm with a legacy of collaboration, innovation, and putting people first, our clients and each other. If you're looking for a place where your ideas matter and your growth is supported, you'll feel at home here.


Why This Role Matters


As an Electrical Engineer with 2-5 years of experience you'll play a key role in supporting the firm and shaping projects that make a difference-from concept through completion. You'll collaborate with talented teammates, contribute your expertise, and help us deliver thoughtful, high-quality solutions for those we serve.


What You'll Do 

  • Electrical design for building systems which includes power distribution, LED and custom lighting design, Life Safety Systems, as well as data/communications
  • Would be working in a diverse market including Industrial, Institutional, Commercial, Education, Government and Healthcare facilities
  • Leading the design and production of projects.
  • Will be visiting project construction sites to assist with measuring, data collection and construction observation duties
  • Must be able to manage time and workload effectively which includes planning, organizing, and prioritizing with attention to detail

Requirements + Responsibilities:

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Architectural Engineering with an electrical engineering emphasis
  • Experienced in 3D modeling, Revit (required). Experience with Microsoft Word and Excel is desired
  • Must be able to collaborate with other team members and have good interpersonal skills
  • Must be able to communicate effectively, orally and in writing
  • Electrical design for building systems which includes power distribution, LED and custom lighting design, Life Safety Systems, as well as data/communications
  • Would be working in a diverse market including Industrial, Institutional, Commercial, Education, Government and Healthcare facilities
  • Leading the design and production of projects.
  • Will be visiting project construction sites to assist with measuring, data collection and construction observation duties
  • Must be able to manage time and workload effectively which includes planning, organizing, and prioritizing with attention to detail

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Architectural Engineering with an electrical engineering emphasis
  • Experienced in 3D modeling, Revit (required). Experience with Microsoft Word and Excel is desired
  • Must be able to collaborate with other team members and have good interpersonal skills
  • Must be able to communicate effectively, orally and in writing
  • Experience with design of lighting, power, and low-voltage systems desired
  • Experience in Revit is preferred. A desire to learn Autodesk Revit is required
  • Have taken and passed, or intent to take, the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam

What will make you stand out 

  • Someone who thrives on the fast-paced nature of commercial projects
  • Values working closely with other talented professionals dedicated to providing a great experience to our clients
  • Good foundational experience with Revit

Our Commitment to You


Great work happens when you feel secure in your future, confident in your support, and trusted to grow. That's why our benefits support your health, financial stability, and life beyond work - including medical, dental and vision coverage, paid time off and holidays, 401(k) retirement savings, disability protection, wellness incentives, and flexibility. When we succeed, you share in that success. Guided by truth, trust, mentoring, and care, we're committed to helping you build a lasting career.


Who We Are


Shive-Hattery is a privately held architecture and engineering consulting firm with design offices across the United States. Here, you'll work alongside multidisciplinary teams delivering integrated design solutions for clients across industries. You'll contribute to meaningful projects guided by our principle to design what matters and make our world a better place. You're looking to build something great. So are we.


Shive-Hattery is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.


This position is primarily performed in an office or hybrid environment and may require travel to project sites, other Shive-Hattery office locations or to meet with clients. A full clean driver's license is required. The role involves sitting, standing, and working at a computer for extended periods. May also require lifting light to medium weight objects of up to 50 lbs., the wearing of PPE and navigating active construction sites. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role. 


U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:


We are unable to provide visa sponsorship now or in the future. Candidates must have current and ongoing authorization to work in the United States without employer sponsorship.


If this role sounds like a fit for your skills and interests, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and help us design what matters to make the world a better place. Interested applicants should submit their cover letter, resume, and portfolio for consideration. If you are unable to submit your portfolio due to size constraints, please include a link to your portfolio in your cover letter. 


Notice to Recruiters and Staffing Agencies:


To protect the interests of all parties, Shive-Hattery and its partners will not accept unsolicited candidate submissions from a recruiter or staffing agency who is not operating under an executed recruiting or staffing services contract with Shive-Hattery. Please do not contact our employees directly in that regard or otherwise submit unsolicited candidate information in any form.

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