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Entry Level Gis Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Read and interpret utility maps, construction drawings, GIS data, and project plans to support ... Level Entry Level Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Ames, IA.

Entry Level Gis information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$26

$45

How much do entry level gis jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 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 is an entry level GIS?

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 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 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 August 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.

Entry-Level CAD Technician - Telecom

Olsson

Des Moines, IA

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Company Description

We are Olsson. We engineer and design solutions that improve the world around us. As a company, we promise to always be responsive, transparent, and focused on results – for our people, our clients, and our company.

We're a people-centric firm, so it's no surprise our greatest asset is our people. The impact this creates is an environment that encourages our people to grow and be creative with their talents. This approach builds a culture that is uniquely Olsson. It allows us to grow our people as we grow our business. This, in turn, creates a lasting impact on the world around us.

Job Description

As a Telecom CAD Technician with our Telecom BAU and Long-Haul group, you will support engineering and design activities associated with expanding and maintaining telecommunications network infrastructure. You will assist with the preparation of fiber optic design plans, permit exhibits, engineering drawings, and project documentation while working closely with engineers, project managers, designers, and permitting staff.

In this role, you will review and incorporate field data, redlines, GIS/KMZ files, utility information, survey data, and client requirements into accurate CAD deliverables. You will help prepare permit plan sets and supporting exhibits for agency approvals and support quality control reviews to ensure drawings meet client and Olsson standards. Successful candidates will be detail-oriented, organized, and interested in developing a career in telecommunications engineering and design.

Qualifications

You are passionate about:

  • Working collaboratively with others.
  • Having ownership in the work you do.
  • Using your talents to positively affect communities.
  • Learning new technical skills and design standards
  • Producing high-quality, accurate CAD deliverables

You bring to the team:

  • Strong communication and organizational skills.
  • Ability to contribute and work well on a team.
  • CAD-related software experience (AutoCAD experience required).
  • GIS-related software experience (ESRI product experience preferred but not required).
  • Associate degree in a related field or equivalent experience preferred.
  • Experience with Microsoft Word and Excel; Bluebeam and Smartsheet experience are a plus.
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering markups, maps, utility records, survey information, and GIS/KMZ data.
  • Attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate plan sets and exhibits.

Olsson CAD Personnel Expectations:

  • Produce accurate and organized CAD drawings with minimal drafting errors.
  • Follow Olsson and client-specific CAD standards, templates, layer management requirements, and file organization procedures.
  • Prepare and revise telecommunications plan sheets, permit exhibits, alignment drawings, right-of-way exhibits, and engineering design documents.
  • Incorporate redlines and quality control comments in a timely and accurate manner.
  • Communicate proactively when information is missing or clarification is needed.
  • Maintain awareness of project schedules, priorities, and deliverable deadlines.
  • Continuously develop proficiency in telecom design standards, permit requirements, GIS/KMZ workflows, and CAD software applications.
  • Support BAU and long-haul fiber projects through the preparation of clear, accurate, and well-organized engineering plan sets.

#LI-DD1

Additional Information

Olsson specializes in engineering and design, client advisory services, planning, field services, and environmental. Improving the world has been our mindset from the very beginning, back when Olsson first opened for business in 1956. And it will be our mindset for years to come.

As an Olsson employee, you will:

  • Receive a competitive 401(k) match
  • Be empowered to build your career with tailored development paths
  • Have the possibility for flexible work arrangements
  • Engage in work that has a positive impact on communities
  • Participate in a wellness program promoting balanced lifestyles

In addition, full-time employees will receive our traditional benefits package (health care, vision, dental, paid time off, etc.) and the opportunity to participate in a bonus system that rewards performance.

Olsson is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage qualified minority, female, veteran, and disabled candidates to apply and be considered for open positions. We do not discriminate against any applicant for employment or any employee because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender, disability, age, military status, or other protected status.

Olsson understands the importance of privacy and is committed to protecting job applicants' personal information. Pursuant to the California Consumer Privacy Act, as amended by the California Privacy Rights Act (collectively, the "CCPA"), this notice explains Olsson's practices regarding the collection, use, and disclosure of personal information for job applicants residing in California. Please read this Notice carefully to understand our privacy practices.

For more information about the types of information we collect and how we use it in connection with your general access and use of our website, please review our general California Privacy Notice here.