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Entry Level Civil Engineering Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

AECOM

Entry Level Civil Engineer

Waterloo, IA

AECOM is seeking an Entry Level Civil Engineer to be based in Waterloo, IA . This position is ... Conducts engineering design under the supervision of an experienced engineer. * Creates designs ...

AECOM

Entry Level Civil Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

AECOM is seeking an Entry Level Civil Engineer to be based in Waterloo, IA . This position is ... Conducts engineering design under the supervision of an experienced engineer. * Creates designs ...

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Entry Level Civil Engineering information

See Iowa salary details

$38K

$69.1K

$113.7K

How much do entry level civil engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level civil engineering in Iowa is $69,062.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,800.00 and $83,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is 40 too late to be an engineer?

Entry level civil engineering positions are open to individuals of various ages, and starting a career at 40 is possible. Many engineers successfully transition into the field later in life by gaining relevant education, such as a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, and developing necessary skills like CAD software proficiency. Age is generally not a barrier if you meet the educational and skill requirements for the role.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Civil Engineer, you need a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, a solid understanding of engineering fundamentals, and proficiency in mathematics and physics. Familiarity with AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and other design software, as well as knowledge of industry standards and the Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification, is typically required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help differentiate candidates in collaborative and project-driven environments. These abilities ensure the effective design, analysis, and execution of infrastructure projects while meeting safety, quality, and regulatory standards.

Can I get a civil engineering job with no experience?

Entry-level civil engineering positions often accept candidates with little or no professional experience, focusing instead on relevant education, internships, or technical skills such as CAD software. Demonstrating a strong foundation in engineering principles and obtaining relevant certifications can improve chances of securing such roles.

What does an entry-level civil engineer do?

An entry-level civil engineer assists in designing, planning, and overseeing construction projects such as roads, bridges, and buildings. They often perform site inspections, prepare reports, and use tools like AutoCAD, working under supervision to gain experience and develop technical skills.

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

Entry-level civil engineers typically earn lower salaries, with median annual wages around $65,000 to $75,000. Achieving a $500,000 salary generally requires many years of experience, advanced roles such as project manager or senior engineer, specialized skills, or working on large-scale projects in high-paying regions.

What types of projects and tasks can I expect to work on as an entry-level civil engineer?

As an entry-level civil engineer, you can expect to be involved in a range of tasks such as assisting with site inspections, preparing drawings and reports, collecting and analyzing data, and supporting senior engineers with project planning. Typical projects may include transportation systems, water resources, environmental remediation, or structural designs. You'll often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including architects, surveyors, and construction managers, gaining exposure to the full project lifecycle. This hands-on experience helps build a strong foundation for future specialization and career advancement.

What is the difference between Entry Level Civil Engineering vs Civil Engineering Technician?

AspectEntry Level Civil EngineeringCivil Engineering Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in civil engineering or related fieldAssociate degree or diploma in civil engineering technology
Work EnvironmentDesign, planning, project management, often in office settingsFieldwork, site inspections, assisting engineers on construction sites
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, construction companies, government agenciesConstruction firms, consulting firms, government departments

Entry Level Civil Engineering roles typically require a bachelor's degree and focus on design and planning tasks, while Civil Engineering Technicians usually hold an associate degree and assist with fieldwork and technical support. Both roles are essential in civil projects but differ in education requirements and daily responsibilities.

What are entry level civil engineers?

Entry level civil engineers are recent graduates or individuals with minimal professional experience who support the planning, design, and construction of infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems. They typically work under the supervision of experienced engineers, assisting with tasks like drafting plans, conducting site inspections, and performing calculations. Entry level civil engineers play a crucial role in ensuring that projects meet safety, environmental, and regulatory standards while gaining hands-on experience in the field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Civil Engineering jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Civil Engineering jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Civil Engineering jobs in Iowa? For Entry Level Civil Engineering jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Civil Engineering jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Civil Engineering jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Entry Level Civil Engineering jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Entry Level Civil Engineering job openings:
Entry Level Civil Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Civil Engineering job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 61% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,062 per year, or $33.2 per hour.

Entry Level Civil Engineer

AECOM

Waterloo, IA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

AECOM rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 78 rated construction

Job description

Company Description

Work with Us. Change the World.

At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world's most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.

There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.

Job Description

AECOM is seeking an Entry Level Civil Engineer to be based in Waterloo, IA.

This position is expected to begin in May 2026.

Job responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Builds analytic and design skills.
  • Conducts engineering design under the supervision of an experienced engineer.
  • Creates designs, calculations, sketches, diagrams, schematic drawings, and final working drawings under the supervision of an experienced engineer.
  • Collects and analyzes data under the supervision of an experienced engineer.
  • Uses computer software as a tool for solving basic engineering problems.
  • Performs work in accordance with agreed upon budget and schedule under supervision.
Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering or similar degree.  
  • Valid U.S. Driver's License required to visit project sites, clients, and other AECOM offices.
  • As a condition of employment, selected candidate must pass a Motor Vehicle Records review.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with Civil 3D and/or Microsoft ORD, experience with Iowa DOT or SUDAS.
Additional Information
  • Relocation assistance is not provided for this position.

About AECOM 

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients' complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle - from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2024. Learn more at aecom.com. 

What makes AECOM a great place to work 

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you'll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you've always envisioned. Here, you'll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community-where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines. 

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