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Engineering Project Manager Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

The Project Manager is responsible for leading all aspects of project execution from inception ... Develop and maintain project schedules, including milestones for engineering, procurement, and ...

The ACI Team comprises of engineers, project managers, skilled welders, pipe fitters, sheet metal mechanics, service technicians, and support staff who are all dedicated to serving our clients. Job ...

The ACI Team comprises of engineers, project managers, skilled welders, pipe fitters, sheet metal mechanics, service technicians, and support staff who are all dedicated to serving our clients. Job ...

To achieve this mission, we recruit great people to be part of our collegial and collaborative teams in engineering, design, project management, field service, plant operations, professional services ...

To achieve this mission, we recruit great people to be part of our collegial and collaborative teams in engineering, design, project management, field service, plant operations, professional services ...

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Showing results 1-20

Engineering Project Manager information

See Ames, IA salary details

$50.4K

$109.9K

$166.3K

How much do engineering project manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for engineering project manager in Ames, IA is $109,886.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,500.00 and $127,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Engineering Project Manager vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectEngineering Project ManagerMechanical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, PMP certification often preferredBachelor's or master's degree in mechanical engineering
Work EnvironmentOversees projects, manages teams, coordinates with clientsDesign, analyze, and develop mechanical systems and components
Industry UsageUsed across construction, manufacturing, and engineering firmsPrimarily in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and product design

The main difference is that Engineering Project Managers focus on planning, coordinating, and overseeing engineering projects, while Mechanical Engineers are involved in designing and developing mechanical systems. The Project Manager role emphasizes leadership and project delivery, whereas Mechanical Engineers concentrate on technical design and analysis.

What are some common challenges engineering project managers face when leading cross-functional teams?

Engineering Project Managers often encounter challenges such as aligning team members from different disciplines, managing conflicting priorities, and ensuring effective communication across departments. They must balance technical constraints with project timelines and budgets, all while motivating diverse teams to collaborate toward shared objectives. Strong organizational and interpersonal skills are crucial for overcoming these hurdles and driving projects to successful completion.

What does an engineering project manager do?

An Engineering Project Manager oversees engineering projects from conception to completion, ensuring that they are completed on time, within budget, and meet the required quality standards. They coordinate teams of engineers, assign tasks, manage resources, handle budgeting, and communicate with stakeholders. Their responsibilities also include risk management, progress tracking, and resolving technical issues. They act as the main point of contact between clients, engineers, and other project participants, ensuring all aspects of the project align with organizational goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an engineering project manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Engineering Project Manager, you need a solid background in engineering principles, project management methodologies, and a relevant degree—often complemented by certifications like PMP or PE. Familiarity with project management software (such as MS Project or Primavera), budgeting tools, and engineering design systems is crucial. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help drive team performance and stakeholder alignment. These competencies ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope and budget, while maintaining technical excellence and team cohesion.

What does an engineering project manager do?

An engineering project manager is in charge of ensuring the successful completion of a project by managing the team and all equipment. As an engineering project manager, you work closely with the clients to design and develop a detailed plan for the project. Your job duties include creating cost proposals, ensuring all safety regulations are met, and maintaining financial records. You are often involved in the entire product development process. The exact job responsibilities depend on the specifics of the project.

What job categories do people searching Engineering Project Manager jobs in Ames, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Engineering Project Manager jobs in Ames, IA are:
What cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Engineering Project Manager jobs? Cities near Ames, IA with the most Engineering Project Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Engineering Project Manager job openings in Ames, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,886 per year, or $52.8 per hour.

Project Manager Mechanical Engineering

MSA Professional Services, Inc.

Ankeny, IA • On-site

$88K - $142K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


MSA Professional Services rating

9.9

Company rating: 9.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Overview
We are seeking a Project Manager - Mechanical Engineering with experience in mechanical systems design, project management, and client coordination to lead projects from pursuit through closeout. This role serves as the primary point of contact for clients and internal teams, managing mechanical engineering projects while ensuring quality, budget, and schedule performance.
This position is for a hybrid or onsite role in our Des Moines or Cedar Rapids IA office.
Responsibilities
Project Management & Delivery
  • Lead mechanical engineering projects through pursuit, initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, and closeout
  • Develop project management plans, work breakdown structures, and schedules
  • Oversee project team performance and ensure quality deliverables
Client & Business Development
  • Serve as primary point of contact for clients
  • Support proposal development, scoping, and contract preparation
  • Communicate with clients on budgets, schedules, and project updates
  • Identify opportunities for additional services and project growth
Technical & Team Leadership
  • Coordinate multidisciplinary teams and external partners
  • Review technical work and ensure documentation quality
  • Mentor junior staff and contribute to team development
  • Collaborate with leadership on project strategy and delivery
Financial & Operational Management
  • Monitor budgets, manage scope changes, and pursue amendments when needed
  • Review and issue invoices; ensure timely client payment

Qualifications
Required
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
  • 6+ years of project management or mechanical engineering experience
  • Proven experience managing engineering projects, budgets, and schedules
  • Strong knowledge of project management principles and best practices
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Teams)
  • Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
Preferred
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license in Iowa.
  • Experience with HVAC systems, building systems, or industrial mechanical design
  • Project management certification (PMP, PSMJ, EMI, or equivalent)
  • Experience working with multidisciplinary engineering teams
Why MSA
At MSA, our people are our greatest asset. We believe in building strong teams, fostering collaboration, and creating an environment where employees can grow professionally while making meaningful contributions to the communities we serve.
You'll join a firm where your work matters - where your expertise, teamwork, and ideas help drive the success of projects and the organization as a whole.
BEST-IN-INDUSTRY BENEFITS
The salary for this position ranges from $88,000 to $142,000, with higher compensation possible for candidates with significant experience and exceptional qualifications.
  • Better Together - A collaborative work environment that promotes open doors, new ideas, and honest opinions.
  • Multi-disciplinary Opportunities - As multi-talented people in a multi-disciplinary firm, we encourage employees to explore interests, seek new experiences, and apply their skills where they can make the greatest impact.
  • We've Got Your Back - Support when you need it and independence when you don't.
  • Commitment to DEIB - We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone can bring their authentic selves to work and where diverse perspectives drive innovation.
  • Passion & Purpose - We are passionate about what we do and proud of it.
  • Communities of Practice - Our Communities of Practice bring together experts across disciplines to collaborate, share knowledge, and generate new ideas.
Additional Benefits
Eligible employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package, including:
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) - As a 100% employee-owned company, eligible employees receive company shares at no cost
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan - Generous employer match that is immediately 100% vested
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance for employees and eligible dependents
  • Paid Time Off - Minimum of 17 days in the first year
  • Paid Holidays - 8 holidays annually
  • Paid Parental Leave - 2 weeks for both parents, with additional paid leave for birth parents
  • Employer-Paid Insurance - Life, short-term disability, and long-term disability coverage
  • Short-Term Incentive Program (STIP) - Annual performance-based bonus opportunity
Equal Opportunity Employer
MSA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
MSA is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply.
Reasonable Accommodation Statement
If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact hr@msa-ps.com so we can assist you.

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