2

Entry Level Planner Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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 Sep 15, 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 82% Full Time, 16% 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 Commercial Engine Technician - Field

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

Altorfer CAT
Machinery Manufacturing • 501 - 1,000 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Altorfer CAT rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Working Hours/Days7:30am - 4:00pm some scheduled afterhours and emergency afterhours possibleOverview

This position is an entry-level position. Must have a mechanical aptitude and ability to take direction and apply new knowledge.

Basic Duties
  • Provide exceptional service to customers by performing maintenance, diagnosis, and repairs to Electric Power Generation and Industrial equipment.
  • This includes paralleling switchgear and electrical controls.
  • Inspect and recommend service repair options.
  • Communicate between customer and field dispatch.  
  • Other duties as assigned
  • This role may transition into a Data Center maintenance & support role.
Qualifications
  • Basic mechanical repair experience preferred.
  • Ability to read electrical schematics, knowledge of proper electrical troubleshooting, and engine experience preferred.
  • Must be a self-starter with good time management, planning, organization, and commitment to detail.  
  • Knowledge of Electric Power Generation equipment, engines, accessories, switchgear, and controls preferred but not required.
  • Computer literacy including Word, Excel and Outlook.
  • Excellent communication skills (written, e-mail, and verbal).
  • Must be able to lift 75-100lbs.
  • Must be flexible to work varying schedules and hours.
  • Minimum high school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Must have a valid driver's license and clean driving record. This includes no more than 2 minor violations within the past 3 years and no major violations within the past 5 years (Motor Vehicle will be performed on final candidate).
Posted MinPosted MaxPhysical Requirements/Working Conditions

This position works in a field/shop environment primarily at Customer jobsites. May on a continuous basis walk, bend and lift up to 75-100lbs. Will be required to wear appropriate safety equipment (IE- Safety glasses or side shields, hearing protection, etc.) for a given situation. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to high. Must be flexible to work varying schedules and hours as needed. Occasional travel may be required. The physical demands described above are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Why Work for Altorfer? At Altorfer, our iron is just the beginning. Our people make our company successful, and we would not be who we are without them. As a third generation, family-owned company created in 1957, we bring our values into how we do business. Everyone from technicians, sales representatives, administrative professionals, or somewhere in between is part of the "A-Team" and is critical to our success. Here at Altorfer, we have over 35 locations and 1300 employees with long tenure for you to learn from. We have a collaborative, family valued culture, with a great reputation in the industry. A company that offers competitive pay, excellent benefits, and the opportunity to work a remarkable team of people.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

What Altorfer CAT employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom