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Entry Level Planner Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Acute Rehab Registered Nurse

Ottumwa, IA ยท On-site

$63K - $86K/yr

This is an entry-level opportunity for a licensed RN looking to build experience in acute ... planning, and coordination with the broader clinical team. What we're looking for. * Graduate of a ...

Acute Rehab Registered Nurse

Ottumwa, IA ยท On-site

$63K - $86K/yr

This is an entry-level opportunity for a licensed RN looking to build experience in acute ... planning, and coordination with the broader clinical team. What we're looking for. * Graduate of a ...

Showing results 41-60

Entry Level Planner information

See Iowa salary details

$31K

$65.4K

$106.1K

How much do entry level planner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level planner in Iowa is $65,364.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,700.00 and $76,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level planner do?

An entry level planner typically assists in the development and implementation of plans related to urban development, events, or logistics, depending on the industry. Their responsibilities often include gathering and analyzing data, preparing reports, supporting senior planners, and ensuring projects comply with relevant regulations. This role is designed to provide foundational experience and training, allowing individuals to develop the skills needed for more advanced planning positions. Entry level planners may work in local government, private firms, or nonprofit organizations, and their daily tasks often involve both fieldwork and office duties.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Planner, you typically need a bachelor's degree in urban planning, geography, or a related field, along with strong analytical and organizational skills. Familiarity with GIS software, Microsoft Office Suite, and understanding of zoning regulations are often required. Effective communication, attention to detail, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for collaborating with stakeholders and conveying planning concepts. These skills ensure accurate project analysis, regulatory compliance, and successful coordination on planning initiatives.

What are common challenges faced by entry level planners, and how can they effectively overcome them?

Entry level planners often encounter challenges such as balancing multiple project deadlines, adapting to rapidly changing priorities, and learning to communicate effectively with diverse teams. To overcome these, it's helpful to develop strong organizational skills, proactively seek feedback from experienced colleagues, and make use of project management tools commonly used in the field. Regular check-ins with supervisors and collaborating closely with team members can also help new planners stay on track and quickly build confidence in their role.

What is the difference between Entry Level Planner vs Junior Urban Planner?

AspectEntry Level PlannerJunior Urban Planner
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in planning, geography, or related fieldBachelor's or master's degree in urban planning or related field
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, project support, data analysisOffice and fieldwork, site visits, community engagement
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipalities, consulting firms, government agenciesUrban planning firms, government departments, non-profits

Entry Level Planners and Junior Urban Planners share similar educational backgrounds and work environments, often working in municipal or consulting settings. The main difference lies in job titles used by employers; 'Junior Urban Planner' may imply slightly more specialized or advanced responsibilities, but both roles serve as entry points into urban planning careers.

What are the most commonly searched types of Planner jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Planner jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Entry Level Planner jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Entry Level Planner job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Planner job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,364 per year, or $31.4 per hour.

Entry-Level Transportation Engineer - Roadway

Olsson

Des Moines, IA โ€ข On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 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
Join Olsson and build a strong foundation for your career in transportation engineering. We are seeking a motivated and collaborative entry-level/new graduate with an interest in roadway and transportation design to support a variety of projects, including urban and rural roadways, multimodal paths, and highway and interchange improvements.
As a member of our Roadway team, you will work alongside experienced engineers on meaningful transportation projects that positively impact communities. You will contribute to project delivery through CAD drafting and design support, assist with research and preparation of technical reports, and participate in field observations and site visits as needed. This role offers exposure to the full project lifecycle and the opportunity to grow your technical skills in a supportive, team-oriented environment.
At Olsson, we value growth, initiative, and high performance. We are committed to supporting your professional development through mentorship, ongoing training, and access to modern tools and technology, while providing clear pathways for career advancement.
Qualifications
You are passionate about:
  • Working collaboratively with others.
  • Having ownership in the work you do.
  • Using your talents to positively affect communities.

You bring to the team:
  • Strong communication skills.
  • Ability to contribute and work well with a team.
  • Excellent interpersonal and problem-solving skills.
  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering.
  • Passed the FE exam and obtained EIT certification.
  • 0-3 years of relevant experience.
  • Familiarity with MicroStation or AutoCAD Civil 3D, a plus.

#LI-DNP
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.