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Cost Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Construction Cost Estimator

Muscatine, IA · Hybrid

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Job title - Construction Cost Estimator Location - Muscatine, IA Job type - Hybrid Requisition ID ... Construction Management * Related technical field * Entry-Level to Mid-Level (0-7 years) experience ...

Sr. Cost Accountant

Cresco, IA · On-site

$76K - $94K/yr

... management. • Ensure compliance with internal controls, accounting standards, and audit requirements. • Support internal and external audits with cost and inventory documentation. • Assist in ...

Cost Control - Project Manager

Cedar Rapids, IA

$113K - $170K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Allocate project estimate into financial system, determine cost codes, approve invoices * Provide financials and billings to accounting, create monthly owner billings * Manage subcontracts and ...

Showing results 21-40

Cost Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$36.6K

$100.5K

$138.1K

How much do cost manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for cost manager in Iowa is $100,508.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,900.00 and $114,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cost manager?

A cost manager plans a budget and ensures cost-effective operations for a project or a company’s overall business model. Your job duties include using financial information to create a streamlined operations model and auditing current projects to see if they are cost-effective. A career as a cost manager requires you have some formal qualifications and education, typically at least a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related subject, and certification as a certified public accountant (CPA). Requirements for senior management positions may be more demanding, requiring five or more years of experience.

What is a cost manager?

A Cost Manager is a professional responsible for overseeing and controlling the costs associated with construction projects. Their role involves estimating project costs, managing budgets, tracking expenditures, and ensuring that projects remain within financial constraints. Cost Managers collaborate closely with project managers, architects, engineers, and contractors to provide accurate financial guidance and cost-effective solutions throughout the project lifecycle. Their expertise helps clients maximize value and minimize risk in construction investments.

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

To thrive as a Cost Manager, you need strong analytical skills, a solid understanding of construction or project cost control, and a relevant degree such as quantity surveying or construction management. Familiarity with cost management software like CostX or Sage, and professional certifications such as RICS or AACE, are commonly required. Excellent communication, negotiation, and attention to detail are crucial soft skills for collaborating with stakeholders and managing budgets. These competencies ensure accurate cost planning, efficient resource allocation, and successful project delivery within budget constraints.

How does a cost manager typically collaborate with project teams to control budgets and manage changes during a construction project?

Cost Managers work closely with project managers, architects, engineers, and contractors to monitor and control project budgets throughout all phases of construction. They regularly review cost estimates, track spending against forecasts, and assess the financial impact of any design or scope changes. Effective communication and negotiation skills are essential, as Cost Managers often facilitate discussions to ensure that changes are implemented within budget constraints while maintaining project quality. Their proactive involvement helps prevent cost overruns and supports the delivery of projects on time and within budget.

What is the difference between Cost Manager vs Cost Analyst?

AspectCost ManagerCost Analyst
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in finance, accounting, or related field; certifications like CMA or CPA are commonUsually holds a degree in finance, accounting, or economics; certifications like CMA can be advantageous
Work EnvironmentOversees budgeting, cost control, and financial planning for projects or departmentsAnalyzes cost data, prepares reports, and supports budgeting processes
Industry UsageUsed across construction, manufacturing, and corporate finance sectorsCommon in finance, manufacturing, and consulting firms

While both roles focus on cost management, the Cost Manager has broader responsibilities including strategic planning and overseeing cost control initiatives, whereas the Cost Analyst primarily analyzes data and supports budgeting activities. The roles often collaborate but differ in scope and seniority.

How much do cost managers make in the US?

Cost managers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $100,000, with experienced professionals and those in senior roles earning higher. Salaries can vary based on industry, location, and level of experience, and certifications like the Certified Cost Professional (CCP) can enhance earning potential.

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

The most popular types of Cost jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Cost Manager jobs in Iowa?

For Cost Manager jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cost Manager jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Cost Manager jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Cost Manager jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Cost Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Cost Manager job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,508 per year, or $48.3 per hour.

Construction Cost Estimator

Stanley Consultants

Muscatine, IA • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Stanley Consultants is an award-winning and industry-leading global consulting engineering firm, with an unmatched commitment to culture, values, and ethics. We are dedicated to client experience and solve the most complex challenges to create a sustainable, connected, and enriched world for all. As the world changes, Stanley strategically evolves with it, integrating the latest technology, innovation, and resiliency practices.
 
With over a century of experience serving the energy, federal government, transportation, and water sectors, we have helped improve lives and shape the infrastructure systems that connect us. As an employee-owned organization with a People First approach, we stand apart from other engineering consulting and services firms. At Stanley, your voice counts, your growth matters, and your success is our success.
 
Stanley Consultants offers flexible work options, competitive pay and great benefits, a strong sense of community, and the chance to build a meaningful, long-term career!

Job title - Construction Cost Estimator
Location - Muscatine, IA
Job type - Hybrid
Requisition ID - 11285
 

Stanley Consultants is seeking a Construction Cost Estimator to join our team in Muscatine, Iowa. This position is responsible for developing and reviewing construction cost estimates for a wide range of projects, including architectural, civil, industrial, institutional, federal, and utility facilities. Occasional travel and overtime may be required based on project needs.

What You Will Be Doing:
  • Prepare material quantity take-offs from planning documents and engineering drawings.
  • Review quantity take-offs prepared by other estimators for accuracy and completeness.
  • Develop detailed cost estimates, including system and subsystem breakdowns.
  • Prepare complete estimate packages, including:
    • Basis of Estimate
    • Quantity Take-Off Backup
    • Cost Data Documentation
    • Engineer's Estimate
  • Collect, evaluate, and maintain historical cost information for future estimating efforts.
  • Contact vendors and suppliers to obtain current pricing and market information.
  • Prepare and review final Engineer's Estimates.
  • Apply knowledge of construction methods, sequencing, and industry practices.
  • Collaborate with the Estimating Department to ensure projects progress efficiently and meet deadlines.
  • Attend internal and client meetings to coordinate estimating activities and project requirements.
Required Qualifications:
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in:
    • Architecture
    • Engineering
    • Construction Management
    • Related technical field
  • Entry-Level to Mid-Level (0-7 years) experience in construction estimating, engineering, construction, or a related field
  • Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and related documentation.
  • Strong computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Previous construction industry experience.
  • Experience with project scheduling and scheduling software.
  • Experience using MII estimating software.
  • Experience with electronic takeoff software and tools.

Why Join Stanley Consultants?

  • Work on a diverse portfolio of infrastructure and facility projects.
  • Gain exposure to civil, industrial, federal, utility, and institutional markets.
  • Collaborate with experienced estimating and engineering professionals.
  • Opportunities for professional growth and career development.

Work-Life Balance
We realize there's more to life than just work. We help you meet the demands of work, family and personal life through several flexible options.
 
What we offer:
Member-Owned. Member-ownership is at the heart of our culture, aligning client satisfaction, company performance, and personal reward.
Paid Time Away. Stanley Consultants offers numerous paid holidays, generous paid time off (PTO), parental leave, and professional development leave.
Health Insurance. We provide a comprehensive insurance package including medical, dental, vision, FSA, HSA, Doctor On Demand, wellness reimbursement, and mental health resources.
Financial Health. We offer life insurance, short- and long-term disability insurance, identity theft protection, and many other benefits.
Professional Growth. When your skills grow, so do we, which is why we offer tuition assistance, professional society membership, and more.
Financial Rewards. We share our prosperity with members through company stock ownership, a generous 401K match, incentive compensation, and profit-sharing contributions to retirement 401K plans.
Click Here: A Great Place To Work  
 
Learn more about Stanley Consultants in this short video:  Working at Stanley Consultants
 
Stanley Consultants does not welcome unsolicited resumes from staffing and recruiting agencies. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to Stanley Consultants, including but not limited to resumes submitted directly to Stanley Consultants members, or any of our representatives, will be deemed the property of Stanley Consultants.
 
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
 
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)
 
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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