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General Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Des Moines Water Works

Staff Engineer

IA · On-site

$87.43K - $123.28K/yr

General engineering design codes, construction methods, and building code requirements. * Construction trades, materials, and typical practices used in water utility construction. * Safety practices ...

Des Moines Water Works

Staff Engineer

Des Moines, IA

$87.43K - $123.28K/yr

General engineering design codes, construction methods, and building code requirements. Construction trades, materials, and typical practices used in water utility construction. Safety practices and ...

KCL Engineering

Mechanical Engineer

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

General Responsibilities Maintain project schedules, meet deadlines, and attend meetings as required. Operate engineering tools, software, and office equipment efficiently. Qualifications Bachelor of ...

KCL Engineering

Electrical Engineer

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

General Responsibilities Maintain project schedules, meet deadlines, and attend meetings as required. Operate engineering tools, software, and office equipment efficiently. Qualifications Bachelor of ...

DGR Engineering

SENIOR MECHANICAL ENGINEER

Rock Rapids, IA

$97.30K - $128.50K/yr

Have a general understanding of the public bidding and construction processes. * Be able to gain familiarity with engineering and design software as needed. Desirable experience in: Microsoft Office ...

RFA Engineering

Entry Level Software Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

General machine knowledge of industrial equipment or machinery Pay Range: $65,000-$90,000 - Commensurate with experience About RFA Engineering RFA Engineering has provided product development and ...

Parker

Engineer II

Red Oak, IA · On-site

General knowledge of other related engineering and technical areas. Proficient with engineering design and analysis tools (e.g. computer-aided design or modeling systems); ability to use standard ...

RFA Engineering

Embedded Software Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

General machine knowledge of vehicles or heavy equipment * Able to read/understand electrical ... Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque ...

RFA Engineering

Software Test Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $110K/yr

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our ... General knowledge of off-road equipment or machinery systems. * Ability to operate machinery or ...

RFA Engineering

Entry Level Software Engineer

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

General machine knowledge of agriculture or off-road equipment and machinery * Practical working ... Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque ...

RFA Engineering

Entry Level Software Engineer

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

General machine knowledge of agriculture or off-road equipment and machinery * Practical working ... Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque ...

Power Engineering And Mfg Ltd

General

Waterloo, IA · On-site

Power Engineering & Manufacturing., Ltd. is an ISO 9001:2015 certified company that specializes in the custom design and manufacturing of heavy-duty gearboxes. Our gearboxes are operating throughout ...

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All JobsGeneral Engineer JobsGeneral Engineer Jobs in Iowa

General Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$36.6K

$95.6K

$129.2K

How much do general engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for general engineer in Iowa is $95,572.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,900.00 and $109,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a General Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a General Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, mathematics, and problem-solving, usually supported by a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, project management tools, and relevant industry standards or certifications (such as EIT or PE) is often required. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication skills help set outstanding engineers apart. These competencies ensure successful project execution, innovation, and collaboration across multidisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges faced by General Engineers when working on multidisciplinary projects?

General Engineers often collaborate with teams from various specialties such as mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering. A common challenge is effectively communicating technical requirements and expectations across disciplines to ensure project goals are met. Balancing multiple priorities and adapting to changing project scopes can also be demanding. Successful General Engineers use strong problem-solving and teamwork skills to bridge gaps and maintain project momentum.

What are General Engineers?

General Engineers are versatile professionals who apply principles of engineering, mathematics, and science to solve a wide range of technical problems. They often work across various disciplines, such as mechanical, electrical, or civil engineering, and may be involved in designing, developing, testing, and overseeing the production of different systems or products. Their broad skill set allows them to adapt to numerous industries, including manufacturing, government, construction, and technology. General Engineers typically collaborate with other engineers and professionals to ensure that projects meet technical specifications, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.

What is the difference between General Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectGeneral EngineerCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, often with diverse specializationBachelor's degree in civil engineering, often with PE licensure
Work EnvironmentVarious industries including defense, aerospace, and infrastructureConstruction sites, urban planning, infrastructure projects
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, defense contractors, manufacturingConstruction firms, government agencies, consulting firms

General Engineers have a broad scope, working across multiple engineering disciplines, while Civil Engineers focus specifically on infrastructure and construction projects. Both roles require similar foundational credentials, but their work environments and industry applications differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to General Engineer jobs in Iowa? For General Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching General Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for General Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for General Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most General Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to General Engineer jobs in IA? For General Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
General Engineer jobs near you
Staff Engineer

Staff Engineer

Des Moines Water Works

On-site

$87.43K - $123.28K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Salary : $87,430.00 - $123,276.30 Annually
Location : Water Works Park, IA
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 202600026
Department: Engineering
Division: Engineering
Opening Date: 04/02/2026
JOB SUMMARY
Why Work at Des Moines Water Works?
At Des Moines Water Works (DMWW), every employee plays a vital role in delivering Water You Can Trust for Life to over 600,000 central Iowans. We're looking for team members who are customer-focused and committed to our mission.
When you join DMWW, you become part of a team that values environmental stewardship-protecting our most essential natural resource: water. Just as importantly, we recognize that our people are our greatest asset. Your wellbeing matters to us-from physical and psychological safety to wellness, fitness, and professional growth, we're committed to supporting your health and development at work and beyond.
About the Position: Under the supervision of the Engineering Supervisor, serves as project engineer, conducts studies, designs improvements to water distribution systems, treatment facilities and processes, grounds facilities, and provides technical assistance during construction.
EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
  • Completes design plans and technical specifications for a variety of water distribution, water treatment and facility projects, with final review and approval by a licensed PE
  • Creates bid documents and facilitates bidding process.
  • Ensures contractor compliance with plans and specifications for improvements and additions, subject to PE oversight
  • Provides inspection and administration of construction projects.
  • Performs a variety of engineering analyses related to new and existing facilities and infrastructure.
  • Determines the most cost-effective and operationally effective alternatives on assigned projects.
  • Develops conceptual plans and cost estimates for future capital improvement projects.
  • Serves as project engineer on projects involving outside consultants, contractors, or DMWW's crews.
  • Represents DMWW at project meetings with local utilities, local agencies, or state agencies.
  • Reviews construction plans submitted by developers, outside agencies, or consultants for compliance with DMWW requirements, with PE review as required.
  • Conducts engineering studies on source water, water treatment and water distribution systems.
  • Reviews contractor submittals and shop drawings related to construction projects.
  • Prepares operation and maintenance manuals.
  • Provides assistance, as needed, answering questions concerning water service and construction projects.
  • Performs other duties of a similar nature.

QUALIFICATIONS
Education:
  • Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering
Experience:
  • Zero to three (0 to 3) years of experience in design and construction of water treatment, facilities, and process-related projects.
Licenses/Certifications:
  • This position requires certification as an Engineer-in-Training (EIT).
  • Must possess a valid driver's license with good driving record.
    • This position requires Driver remain insurable under the Company's coverage.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Any additional experience in designing general civil, environmental, structural, mechanical, electrical, chemical, and/or process improvements within a municipal environment, including experience in managing all phases of projects from conception to completion.
  • IDNR Grade II Water Distribution Operator and/or Grade II Water Treatment Operator License

SCOPE OF PRACTICE:
  • The employee may not sign, seal, or stamp engineering drawings, reports, or specifications, and does not serve in responsible charge of engineering work as defined by Iowa Code.
  • All engineering work performed in this role must be reviewed, approved, and stamped by a licensed Professional Engineer within the department.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES:
Knowledge of:
  • Basic engineering principles, practices, and methods applicable to water distribution, treatment, and related infrastructure.
  • General engineering design codes, construction methods, and building code requirements.
  • Construction trades, materials, and typical practices used in water utility construction.
  • Safety practices and OSHA requirements for construction and industrial environments.
  • Local, state, and federal regulations related to water utilities, public health, and environmental compliance.
Skills:
  • Skill in performing engineering calculations and technical analyses.
  • Skill in preparing construction cost estimates and developing project budgets.
  • Skill in interpreting and reviewing plans, specifications, and technical submittals.
  • Skill in organizing engineering and technical data.
  • Skill in communicating technical information clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing.
Abilities:
  • Ability to apply engineering principles to identify problems and develop technically sound solutions.
  • Ability to gather and evaluate as-built information and assess compliance with standards.
  • Ability to translate technical requirements into clear guidance for contractors or field staff.
  • Ability to make informed field observations and recommend appropriate adjustments.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, contractors, consultants, and external agencies.
  • Ability to read, write, communicate, and understand English.

HARDWARE/SOFTWARE/EQUIPMENT/TOOLS NEEDED TO PERFORM JOB:
  • Personal computer, smartphone, and general office equipment
  • Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
  • GIS and hydraulic modeling software
  • CAD software (such as MicroStation or similar tools)
  • Document review and markup software (e.g., Adobe, Bluebeam)
  • SCADA interfaces for facility-related assignments
  • GPS equipment and field data collection tools
  • Safety equipment required for construction or plant environments
  • Ladders, scaffolding, and other access equipment as needed

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Frequently lifts or carries objects up to 10 pounds
  • Occasionally lifts or carries objects up to 25 pounds

WORKING CONDITIONS:
  • Frequent work in office settings and outdoor environments, including rights-of-way and construction sites
  • Occasional work in confined spaces, elevated areas, or water treatment plant environments
  • Exposure to weather conditions, construction noise, and typical industrial hazards

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Des Moines Water Works is an Equal Opportunity Employer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or protected veteran status, in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.
Selection Process: The hiring process includes a review of qualifications, interviews, and job-related assessments. The selected candidate must pass a criminal background check, which includes a sex offender registry search, a pre-employment drug screen, and physical examination.
E-Verify Participation: Des Moines Water Works participates in the federal E-Verify program. We will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization. All candidates offered a position must complete Section 1 of Form I-9 and present documentation verifying their identity and eligibility to work in the United States prior to starting employment. For questions about acceptable documents, please contact Human Resources at 515-283-8717.
Des Moines Water Works offers a comprehensive benefits program to eligible full-time employees. Benefits may include, but are not limited to, vacation and sick leave; life insurance and accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) coverage; health, dental, and vision insurance; participation in the Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System (IPERS); long-term disability coverage; deferred compensation with employer match; tuition reimbursement; and an employee assistance program. Benefit eligibility, coverage, and terms are subject to applicable laws and plan documents, and may be modified from time to time. Detailed benefit information is provided during the offer process.

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