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Entry Level Construction Project Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Based on Experience Story Construction, which is a 100% employee-owned general contractor ... Position Summary: The Project Engineer plays a crucial role in the planning, execution, and ...

The Project Engineer is responsible for on-site administrative and technical support on construction project sites. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: * Complete projects on time ...

Providing engineering support such as consultation and advice, preparation of contracts, and management and inspection of construction projects. Duties include: reviewing data to determine material ...

Mission Critical Interior Solutions, Inc. (MCIS) is a minority- and veteran-owned construction ... Position Overview The Project Engineer plays a vital role in supporting the successful execution of ...

Mission Critical Interior Solutions, Inc. (MCIS) is a minority- and veteran-owned construction ... Position Overview The Project Engineer plays a vital role in supporting the successful execution of ...

Tri-City Group is seeking a Project Engineer to immediately support Treiber Construction Division projects based in Davenport, IA. In this role, the Project Engineer plays a key part in the ...

TriCity Group is seeking a Project Engineer to immediately support Treiber Construction Division projects based in Davenport, IA. In this role, the Project Engineer plays a key part in the successful ...

This position plays a critical role in aligning engineering, procurement, and field operations with project milestones to ensure successful execution of construction projects. A key responsibility of ...

This position plays a critical role in aligning engineering, procurement, and field operations with project milestones to ensure successful execution of construction projects. A key responsibility of ...

TriCity Group is seeking a Project Engineer to immediately support Treiber Construction Division projects based in Davenport, IA. In this role, the Project Engineer plays a key part in the successful ...

Ames Construction has built America for more than 60 years, and the exceptional people who make up ... The Project Engineer supports the planning, coordination, and execution of heavy highway and civil ...

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Entry Level Construction Project Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$31K

$77.1K

$141.4K

How much do entry level construction project engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level construction project engineer in Iowa is $77,081.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,900.00 and $83,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Construction Project Engineer vs Construction Coordinator?

AspectEntry Level Construction Project EngineerConstruction Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil Engineering or related field; internships preferredHigh school diploma or associate degree; relevant experience beneficial
Work EnvironmentOn-site construction sites, project officesOffice setting, on-site visits
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction firms, engineering companiesGeneral contractors, construction management firms

Both roles support construction projects but differ mainly in responsibilities. Entry Level Construction Project Engineers focus on technical planning, design, and assisting with project execution, while Construction Coordinators handle scheduling, communication, and administrative tasks. The engineer role typically requires a degree and technical skills, whereas the coordinator role emphasizes organizational abilities. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the best fit for their skills and career goals.

How much does a first year project engineer make?

A first-year construction project engineer typically earns between $55,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on location, company size, and educational background. Entry-level engineers often develop skills in project management software and site supervision during their first year.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Construction Project Engineer, you need a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, construction management, or a related field, along with a solid understanding of project planning and construction processes. Familiarity with project management software (like Procore or Microsoft Project), AutoCAD, and reading blueprints is typically expected. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you manage tasks, coordinate with teams, and solve problems on-site. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring projects are delivered safely, on time, and within budget while facilitating teamwork and minimizing errors.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or software engineering with senior roles and advanced skills can earn $300,000 or more annually. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and work in high-demand industries or leadership roles.

What are some common challenges faced by Entry Level Construction Project Engineers during their first year on the job?

Entry Level Construction Project Engineers often encounter challenges such as learning to effectively coordinate between various stakeholders—including contractors, architects, and suppliers—and managing their time across multiple tasks or job sites. Adapting to the fast-paced environment and resolving unexpected onsite issues can be demanding. New engineers typically need to quickly develop strong communication skills and a solid understanding of construction documentation, safety protocols, and project management software. However, these challenges provide valuable learning experiences and a foundation for long-term career growth in construction management.

What Does an Entry-Level Construction Project Engineer Do?

Entry-level construction project engineers assist senior project engineers with building projects. In this role, you may help plan the construction schedule, act as a liaison for contractors and subcontractors, provide status updates to clients, and answer any questions they may have about the progress. Many companies use this role as a type of extended training period for new engineers; you are supervised in most of your job duties and receive feedback designed to help you improve your skills and prepare for a regular, less-supervised engineering role. This job may require you to travel to different construction sites and work long shifts, including nights, weekends, or holidays, as needed.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most entry-level construction project engineers earn significantly less, senior or specialized engineers such as civil, petroleum, or aerospace engineers with extensive experience and advanced certifications can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and profit sharing. These high salaries are typically associated with senior roles, leadership positions, or engineers working in high-demand industries or regions with high living costs.

Can you become a project engineer with no experience?

Entry level construction project engineers can often start with little to no experience if they have relevant education, such as a degree in construction management or engineering, and demonstrate strong organizational and communication skills. Employers may provide on-the-job training and look for candidates with basic knowledge of construction processes, safety protocols, and project management tools like MS Project or Primavera.

What does an Entry Level Construction Project Engineer do?

An Entry Level Construction Project Engineer assists in managing construction projects by coordinating schedules, resources, and documentation. They work closely with project managers, contractors, and architects to ensure that building plans are executed correctly and safely. Their tasks often include tracking project progress, assisting with budgeting, and resolving on-site issues. This role provides valuable hands-on experience and is often a stepping stone to more advanced engineering or management positions in construction.
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Construction Project Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Entry Level Construction Project Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Construction Project Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Construction Project Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
Project Engineer

Project Engineer

Story Construction

Ames, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Salary: Based on Experience

Story Construction, which is a 100% employee-owned general contractor, construction manager, and design-builder with offices in Ames and Sioux City, IA. As an employee of Story Construction, youll have the opportunity to join the ownership group through our employee stock ownership plan (ESOP). At Story, we focus on having a good day, every day, regardless of your role. Everything we do revolves around building a joyful work environment and making a difference in the communities in which we work.


Why Choose Story Construction?

Career Growth:We help you develop a clear career path. Whether you're just starting out, or have years of experience, we are just as dedicated to your career development as you are. Enjoy a tri-annual review cycle so that you never have to wonder how your performance is measuring up.


Diverse & Challenging Projects:As a general contractor, construction manager, and design-builder we have the privilege of leading projects from start to finish. With a focus on a local footprint, our projects are challenging, and highly rewarding as we shape the communities we live in. Check out some of our projects here.


A Culture That Can't Be Beat: We foster a people-centered atmosphere where respect, trust, collaboration, and teamwork are key and every employee's well-being and growth are prioritized. Learn more about our culture here.


Position Summary:

The Project Engineer plays a crucial role in the planning, execution, and successful completion of construction projects by proving estimating and document administration support to the project team. The Project Engineer typically reports to the Project Manager and works closely with the Project Superintendent onsite.


Responsibilities:

  • Assists in pursuits and preconstruction activities such as presentations, estimating, bidding, and buying the job
  • Develops a thorough understanding of the contract documents and estimates
  • Communicates with owners, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and suppliers on project status updates
  • Issues subcontracts and purchase orders as assigned
  • Assists with setting up the project schedule of values, completing monthly pay applications, and payment approval of invoices
  • Responsible for the submittal process, including ensuring that the submittal schedule coincides with the production schedule; responsible for O&M submittals.
  • Provides information to the field as required, i.e. lift drawings layout drawings, flow diagrams, and more required for decision-making
  • Assists in calculating production rates
  • Assists in ensuring all work meets the contract requirements and quality standards
  • Assists with completing required monthly/weekly/daily documentation reporting as well as cost projections and monthly PM reports
  • Assists with pricing and drafting change request proposals and maintains change log
  • Updates subcontracts, purchase orders, and project budget with any changes
  • Assists with creating, monitoring, and updating punch lists
  • Assists with project closeout, seeing that project as-builts are up to date and submitted, participates in close-out meetings, and assists in start-up and scheduling owner training.
  • Monitor material and equipment delivery statuses.
  • Other duties as assigned.


Qualifications:

  • 4-year technical degree, a 2-year technical degree with 2 years of experience, or equivalent combination of experience and training required. 4-year technical degree in Construction Management, Construction Engineering, or related study preferred.
  • Understanding of construction and construction planning methods


Travel: Some out-of-area and overnight travel may be expected; sites are located throughout central Iowa and across the state.

Benefits:

  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • 3 weeks of paid time off in addition to paid holidays
  • Company 401K plan with company match
  • Health, dental, vision, and supplemental insurance
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Company-paid term life insurance, AD&D, and long-term disability
  • Company-paid employee assistance program (EAP)
  • Medical and dependent care flex benefits plans
  • Career Development Plan personalized to you and your career goals
  • Weekly pay via direct deposit
  • Safety boot and prescription safety glasses reimbursement


Working Conditions & Physical Requirements:

Project Engineers may be based out of the office, or the jobsite based on project needs. Employees may be exposed to fumes, airborne particles, moving mechanical parts, vibration, loud noises, and more within OSHA standards. Employees may be exposed to outdoor conditions that include inclement weather such as heat, humidity, cold, wind, and dust. Must be able to lift and carry up to 30 pounds regularly and 50 pounds occasionally, stand for long periods of time, walk for moderate-to-long distances on varying surface conditions, climb, crawl, crouch, reach, grip, push, and pull without issue. Must possess adequate communicative, auditory, and visual capabilities to avoid safety hazards and help others do the same.


Story Construction is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Story is a drug-free workplace, and employment is contingent on the successful passing of a drug test. Story Construction participates in E-Verify.