ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Transportation Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Origin Design Co

Entry-Level Civil Engineer

IA · On-site

Job Type Full-time Description Entry-Level Civil Engineer DUBUQUE OR DAVENPORT, IOWA Origin Design ... We are looking for candidates that are excited about planning and design in the transportation ...

Origin Design Co

Entry-Level Civil Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

Description: Entry-Level Civil Engineer DUBUQUE OR DAVENPORT, IOWA Origin Design is a full-service ... We are looking for candidates that are excited about planning and design in the transportation ...

Origin Design

Entry-Level Civil Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

Description Entry-Level Civil Engineer DUBUQUE OR DAVENPORT, IOWA Origin Design is a full-service ... We are looking for candidates that are excited about planning and design in the transportation ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTransportation Engineer JobsEntry Level Transportation Engineer JobsEntry Level Transportation Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Entry Level Transportation Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$28.2K

$65.1K

$110.8K

How much do entry level transportation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level transportation engineer in Iowa is $65,149.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,400.00 and $73,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level transportation engineer do?

An Entry Level Transportation Engineer assists in the planning, design, and implementation of transportation infrastructure projects such as roads, highways, bridges, and traffic systems. Their responsibilities typically include conducting site assessments, preparing technical drawings, analyzing traffic data, and supporting senior engineers with project management tasks. They often use specialized software to create models and ensure projects comply with safety and environmental standards. This role is ideal for recent engineering graduates looking to gain practical experience in the transportation field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level transportation engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Transportation Engineer, you generally need a bachelor's degree in civil or transportation engineering, strong analytical skills, and a solid understanding of transportation principles. Familiarity with design and simulation software like AutoCAD, MicroStation, and traffic analysis tools, as well as experience with relevant codes and standards, is crucial. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help you collaborate effectively and adapt to project demands. These competencies ensure you can contribute to safe, efficient transportation systems while supporting project goals and regulatory compliance.

What are some typical projects and responsibilities for an entry level transportation engineer in their first year?

As an Entry Level Transportation Engineer, you can expect to work on a variety of tasks such as preparing design plans, conducting traffic studies, assisting with roadway or intersection design, and supporting senior engineers with data collection and analysis. You may also collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, attend site visits, and help prepare reports or presentations for clients and stakeholders. This role offers the chance to build foundational skills in transportation engineering while learning about industry standards and project workflows.

What is the difference between Entry Level Transportation Engineer vs Transportation Planner?

AspectEntry Level Transportation EngineerTransportation Planner
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil Engineering or related field; Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification often preferredBachelor's in Urban Planning, Geography, or related field; may require certification in planning
Work EnvironmentDesigning transportation systems, analyzing traffic data, working on engineering projectsDeveloping transportation policies, conducting planning studies, community engagement
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, government transportation departments, construction companiesMunicipalities, regional planning agencies, consulting firms

Entry Level Transportation Engineers focus on designing and analyzing transportation infrastructure, requiring engineering credentials. Transportation Planners concentrate on planning and policy development, often with a background in urban planning. Both roles are essential in transportation projects but differ in daily tasks and focus areas.

Is being an Entry Level Transportation Engineer worth it?

Entry Level Transportation Engineers typically find the role to be rewarding as it offers opportunities to develop skills in traffic analysis, roadway design, and transportation planning. The position often provides a clear career path, competitive starting salaries, and the chance to work on impactful infrastructure projects, making it a worthwhile entry point into civil engineering careers.

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

The most popular types of Transportation Engineer jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Transportation Engineer jobs in Iowa?

For Entry Level Transportation Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Transportation Engineer jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Transportation Engineer jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Entry Level Transportation Engineer jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Entry Level Transportation Engineer job openings:

Entry Level Transportation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Transportation Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 61% Full Time, 35% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,149 per year, or $31.3 per hour.

Entry-Level Transportation Engineer - Roadway

Olsson

Des Moines, IA

$75K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

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, teamoriented 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

Apply