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International Development Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

International Paper

LAN Support Specialist

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$69K - $92K/yr

International Paper offers a benefits package that includes health, welfare and retirement plans ... Development (including Tuition Reimbursement), Student Loan Repayment Assistance, and Voluntary ...

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$31K

$72.7K

$124.9K

How much do international development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for international development in Iowa is $72,735.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,900.00 and $85,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges professionals face when working in international development roles?

Professionals in international development often encounter challenges such as navigating cultural differences, working in resource-limited or remote settings, and adapting to rapidly changing project requirements. Collaboration with local partners and stakeholders can be complex, requiring strong communication and negotiation skills. Additionally, managing multiple projects across different time zones and monitoring impact can be demanding, but these experiences also provide valuable opportunities for professional growth and cross-cultural exchange.

What is international development?

International development is a field focused on improving the economic, social, and political conditions of countries around the world, particularly in regions facing poverty or instability. Professionals in this area work with governments, NGOs, and international organizations to create programs that promote sustainable growth, health, education, and equality. The goal is to reduce global disparities and help communities achieve long-term prosperity through collaboration and innovation.

What is the difference between International Development vs International Relations?

AspectInternational DevelopmentInternational Relations
Required CredentialsBachelor's or master's in development studies, international relations, or related fieldsBachelor's or master's in political science, international relations, or related fields
Work EnvironmentNon-profit organizations, NGOs, government agencies focused on development projectsGovernment agencies, think tanks, diplomatic services, policy institutes
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in development-focused organizations and NGOsPrimarily in government, diplomatic, and policy sectors

International Development and International Relations share overlapping skills and educational backgrounds but differ mainly in focus. International Development emphasizes on-the-ground projects to improve living conditions, while International Relations concentrates on diplomacy, policy, and global political dynamics. Both fields often collaborate but serve different primary objectives.

What can I do with an international development degree?

An international development degree prepares individuals for careers in NGOs, government agencies, international organizations, and consulting firms focused on global development, policy, and aid programs. Common roles include project manager, policy analyst, program coordinator, and researcher, often requiring skills in cross-cultural communication, project management, and data analysis. Opportunities may also involve fieldwork, grant writing, and working with diverse stakeholders in international settings.

What jobs can you get with international development studies?

Graduates with international development studies can pursue roles such as development officer, project coordinator, policy analyst, program manager, or research analyst. These jobs often require skills in project management, cross-cultural communication, and knowledge of global issues, with opportunities in NGOs, government agencies, and international organizations.

What professions make 200,000 a year without a degree?

In international development, most roles require at least a bachelor's degree, but some high-paying professions outside this field, such as sales managers, real estate brokers, or certain tech sales positions, can reach $200,000 annually through commissions and experience. These roles often emphasize skills, networking, and performance over formal education, but achieving such income levels typically requires significant expertise and proven success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in International Development, and why are they important?

To thrive in International Development, you need a background in areas such as international relations, economics, or public policy, often supported by relevant degrees and experience in global project management. Familiarity with project management tools, data analysis software, and knowledge of donor compliance systems is highly valued, along with certifications like PMP or specialized humanitarian training. Strong cross-cultural communication, adaptability, and collaborative problem-solving skills help professionals excel in diverse, often challenging environments. These skills and qualities are essential for effectively managing complex projects, fostering partnerships, and achieving sustainable development outcomes across varied international contexts.

What professions make $500,000 a year?

In international development, high-earning roles such as senior executives, chief development officers, or consultants with extensive experience and specialized skills can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, often through a combination of salary, bonuses, and project-based income. These positions typically require advanced degrees, significant industry experience, and strong leadership or technical expertise.

What Are the Qualifications to Get an International Development Job?

The qualifications for international development jobs vary by position. Private organizations and NGOs usually ask for a bachelor's degree and several years of relevant experience. On the other hand, official programs like USAID provide contracts for jobs, and they care less about education and experience and more about your ability to complete the job. Regardless of your position, fulfilling the duties and responsibilities of a job in international development requires excellent communication skills, good teaching skills, and the ability to work as part of a large, coordinated effort to impact a region. The emphasis on developing countries means that fluent speakers of uncommon languages are often in demand, so the ability to converse with groups that do not speak English can set you apart from other applicants.

More about International Development jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of International Development jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of International Development jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to International Development jobs in Iowa? For International Development jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching International Development jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for International Development jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for International Development jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most International Development job openings:
International Development jobs near you
Bridge Project Manager

Bridge Project Manager

Michael Baker International

Des Moines, IA • Hybrid

$115K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Michael Baker International rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 368 rated engineering

Job description

Bridge Practice

Michael Baker International has addressed bridge design, construction and preservation challenges with innovative and sustainable solutions.  Exemplifying its depth and versatility in the bridge space, Michael Baker International, ranked Number seven by Engineering News-Record in its annual ranking of Bridge Design Firms in the United States, has partnered with clients on a full spectrum of bridge types-from conventional grade separations to major, complex river crossings, including trusses, arches, box girders and cable-stayed bridges.

What We're Looking For:

Are you ready to lead transformative infrastructure projects across Iowa while enjoying the flexibility of remote work? We're seeking a Bridge Project Manager to drive the pursuit and delivery of transportation design projects-from preliminary engineering to PS&E-for statewide and regional clients.

This role blends technical excellence with mentorship, project leadership, and strategic growth. You'll shape the future of Iowa's bridges while guiding a talented team of engineers and collaborating with clients who value innovation and reliability.

What You'll Do:

  • Lead structural design and delivery of bridge, culvert, and retaining wall projects
  • Manage proposals, budgets, schedules, and staffing for multiple concurrent projects
  • Provide technical oversight and mentorship to junior engineers
  • Ensure quality control and assurance across all phases of design
  • Collaborate with Iowa DOT and other stakeholders to meet standards and exceed expectations
  • Support business development through client engagement and proposal strategy
  • Travel occasionally for site visits and client meetings

What You Need to Succeed:

  • Bachelor's or Master's in Civil or Structural Engineering
  • Iowa P.E. license (required)
  • 8+ years in bridge design and transportation engineering
  • 2+ years managing bridge-related projects or tasks
  • Deep familiarity with Iowa DOT and AASHTO LRFD standards
  • Proficiency in bridge design software, MicroStation, and Microsoft Office
  • Strong leadership, communication, and client listening skills

Compensation 

The approximate compensation range for this position is $115,000 to $180,000. This compensation range is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting.  Actual compensation is dependent upon factors such as education, qualifications, experience, skillset, and physical work location.

Why Choose Us:

  • Medical, dental, vision insurance
  • 401k Retirement Plan
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Life, AD&D, short-term, and long-term disability
  • Professional and personal development
  • Generous paid time off
  • Commuter and wellness benefits

#LI-MM1 #LI-HYBRID

Michael Baker International, a leading provider of engineering and consulting services, including design, planning, architectural, environmental, construction and program management, has been solving some of the world's most complex infrastructure challenges for more than 85 years with a legacy of expertise, experience, innovation and integrity.
Based in Pittsburgh and with over 100 offices nationwide, we partner with clients on everything from roads, bridges, tunnels, mass transit, and airports, to water treatment plants, arctic oil pipelines, environmental restoration and specialized overseas construction. We serve as a trusted adviser to the communities we serve, making them safer, more accessible, more sustainable and more prosperous.
We provide visionary leadership in facilitating transformational change for our clients. Our work delivers differentiating innovations and dedicated experts who challenge the status quo and share a world of diverse experience and an impassioned entrepreneurial spirit. We deliver quality of life.
We Make a Difference.

Michael Baker International is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Michael Baker International provides equal employment opportunity for all persons, in all facets of employment. Michael Baker International maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply for any open position for which they feel they are qualified and all will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status, marital status, familial status, pregnancy or childbirth, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status, status with regard to public assistance, or membership or activity in a local human rights commission, or any other legally protected status.
EEO is the Law. Applicants to and employees of Michael Baker International are protected under Federal law from discrimination.

*It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
*There is no current application deadline. Michael Baker will continue to accept applications on an ongoing basis until the position is filled or no longer needed.

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