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Entry Level Gis Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Gis information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$26

$45

How much do entry level gis jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level gis in Iowa is $26.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.34 and $31.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects or tasks are typical for Entry Level GIS roles?

Entry Level GIS professionals often work on tasks such as updating and maintaining spatial databases, creating maps and visualizations, and performing basic spatial analyses under the guidance of senior staff. Projects may include supporting environmental studies, infrastructure planning, or urban development by collecting and processing geographic data. Entry-level team members typically collaborate with engineers, planners, and other GIS specialists to meet project goals and deadlines. This exposure provides opportunities to learn advanced techniques, gain industry experience, and build a strong foundation for future career advancement.

What is an Entry Level GIS job?

An Entry Level GIS (Geographic Information Systems) job involves working with mapping software and spatial data to analyze, visualize, and manage geographic information. Responsibilities typically include data entry, map creation, spatial analysis, and assisting with GIS projects. These roles are common in industries like urban planning, environmental science, transportation, and government agencies. Strong technical skills in GIS software such as ArcGIS or QGIS, as well as basic programming or database management, can be beneficial. This position serves as a foundation for career growth in geospatial technology and analysis.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Entry Level Gis position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level GIS professional, you need foundational knowledge of geographic information systems, spatial data analysis, and cartography, often backed by a degree in geography, environmental science, or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software like ArcGIS or QGIS, basic programming (such as Python), and data management tools is commonly required, with certifications viewed as a plus. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are important soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate map creation, reliable data analysis, and successful collaboration on multidisciplinary projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Gis jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Gis jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Gis jobs in Iowa? For Entry Level Gis jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Gis jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Gis jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Entry Level Gis jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Entry Level Gis job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Gis job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,726 per year, or $26.8 per hour.
Municipal Water Engineer

Municipal Water Engineer

Muscatine Power and Water

Muscatine, IA • On-site

$65K - $86K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

This role focuses on meaningful electric and water transmission and distribution projects that support reliable service to the Muscatine community. You will manage MPW and federally funded initiatives, including the Lead Service Line Replacement Program and water main replacement efforts, while working closely with consultants, contractors, and field crews. You will also coordinate infrastructure improvements with city planners and industrial and commercial customers and contribute to electric system projects such as pole design and work like the riser structure along Mississippi Drive.
Job Purpose
Provide civil engineering support for on-going electrical and water transmission and distribution, technical services, generation, and telecommunication projects. Work with internal and external customers to provide engineering guidance and administer contract responsibilities as needed. Work with other departments to schedule work as needed.
This position has a level I and a level II grading based on experience and demonstrated abilities. Tasks are performed at each level based on the individual's knowledge and experience.
Specific Responsibilities
  1. Monitor and coordinate current construction and maintenance projects. Including:
    1. Work with contractors and consultants.
    2. Periodically review and update construction standards and practices.
    3. Apply engineering principles to the evaluation and selection of alternatives.
    4. Assist in the design and layout of electrical transmission and distribution lines, including substation structures.
    5. Assist in the coordination, interpretation, and preparation of electrical and water transmission and distribution, technical services, generation, and telecommunication system studies and computer models.
    6. Design and document civil and structural components of projects, including site surveys and inspections, drainage systems, foundations, structures, and roadways.
  2. Coordinate engineering activities with industrial and commercial customers. Activities include MP&W policy, technical details, and general assistance with service installations.:

Other Responsibilities
  1. Assist Chief Operations Engineer with technical problems related to the operation and maintenance of electrical and water transmission and distribution, technical services, generation, and telecommunications systems.
  2. Assist with overall system reliability improvement efforts, including the development, population, and use of databases used to track failure, maintenance, and outage issues.
  3. Assist in the development of the annual operating budget and appropriate projections for the department.
  4. Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Knowledge
  1. Bachelor's degree in civil engineering preferred.
  2. Civil Engineer I is an entry-level engineering position. Civil Engineer II is a minimum 2 years utility experience preferred.
  3. Registered Professional Engineer in the State of Iowa beneficial for level II position, or working toward certification. If obtained, certification must be maintained while employed in the position.
  4. Knowledge of applicable local, state, and federal codes and standards that govern work on electric and water transmission and distribution systems.
  5. Familiarity with CAD and GIS preferred.

Skills
  1. Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  2. Excellent interpersonal and listening skills, with ability to build productive professional relationships and promote a team atmosphere.
  3. Project management skills.
  4. Good judgment and reasoning skills.
  5. Problem identification, analysis, and solving.
  6. Proficiency with use of Microsoft Office Word at an intermediate level and Excel at an advanced level.

Abilities
  1. Ability to work as part of a team, either as team leader or a member of a team.
  2. Ability to drive results and ensure work is accomplished properly, safely, and in a timely manner.
  3. Ability to work independently, effectively prioritize work, manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and adjust work priorities as needed to meet department/organizational objectives.
  4. Ability to develop, read, and interpret drawings, schematics, specifications, and technical manuals.
  5. Ability to distinguish colors.

Other Position Requirements
  1. Must be able to attend work on a regular basis and work extended hours as needed.
  2. Must maintain a method of communication in order to be contacted by MP&W outside normal work hours.

Work Environment
  1. Work environment is primarily in an office environment. Occasional visits to an industrial coal-fired power plant or outside job sites may be required. Fieldwork is completed in all weather conditions.
  2. Must comply with all safety and site rules at all locations.