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Land Development Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Olsson

Civil Engineer - Site Design

Des Moines, IA

... residential land development projects, along with industrial, sports, schools, and other site ... As a Civil Engineer for our Site Design team, you will provide basic project design through CAD ...

Olsson

Project Civil Engineer - Site Design

Des Moines, IA · On-site +1

$83K - $110K/yr

... land development projects, along with municipal, industrial, sports, schools, and other site ... As a Civil Project Engineer, you will apply diversified knowledge of engineering principles and ...

Actalent

Survey Technician

Iowa City, IA

$22 - $35/hr

... land development projects in and around Des Moines. You will work as part of a structured team that includes multiple professional engineers, licensed land surveyors, several field survey crews, and ...

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All JobsLand Development Engineer JobsLand Development Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Land Development Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$40.4K

$92.6K

$134.3K

How much do land development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for land development engineer in Iowa is $92,591.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,200.00 and $106,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or certain senior roles in software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often including bonuses and stock options. These positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior land development engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or with managerial responsibilities. Achieving this salary often requires a combination of technical expertise, project management, and industry reputation.

What does a land development engineer do?

A land development engineer plans and designs the layout of new developments, including roads, utilities, and drainage systems. They evaluate site conditions, ensure compliance with regulations, and use design software like AutoCAD. Their work supports the safe and efficient development of land for residential, commercial, or industrial use.

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

To thrive as a Land Development Engineer, you need a solid background in civil engineering, site design, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Proficiency with AutoCAD, Civil 3D, stormwater modeling software, and GIS systems is commonly required. Strong project management, problem-solving, and communication skills help you collaborate with stakeholders and manage complex projects efficiently. These abilities are essential to ensure safe, sustainable, and cost-effective land development projects that meet client and regulatory requirements.

What is the difference between Land Development Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectLand Development EngineerCivil Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Civil Engineering or related field; PE license often preferredBachelor's in Civil Engineering; PE license typically required
Work EnvironmentDesigning and planning land development projects, site layout, grading, drainageDesigning infrastructure, transportation, and public works projects
Industry UsagePrimarily in land development, real estate, and construction sectorsBroader, including infrastructure, transportation, and public sector projects

Land Development Engineers focus on preparing land for construction, including grading, drainage, and site planning. Civil Engineers have a wider scope, designing various infrastructure projects. While both roles require similar credentials and often work in related environments, their project focus differs, with Land Development Engineers specializing in land-specific projects.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, managing large projects, or holding executive-level positions.

What are some common challenges Land Development Engineers face during project execution, and how can they be addressed?

Land Development Engineers frequently encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, navigating complex permitting processes, and adapting to unforeseen site conditions. Effective communication and collaboration with planners, surveyors, contractors, and local authorities are essential to keep projects on track. Proactively addressing regulatory requirements and maintaining flexibility in design can help mitigate delays. Staying organized and up-to-date with local codes ensures smoother project progression and successful outcomes.

What is a Land Development Engineer?

A Land Development Engineer is a professional who designs, plans, and oversees the development of land for residential, commercial, or industrial use. They are responsible for ensuring that projects comply with zoning laws, environmental regulations, and infrastructure requirements. Their work includes tasks such as site analysis, grading, drainage design, utility planning, and coordination with local municipalities. Land Development Engineers play a crucial role in transforming raw land into usable, safe, and sustainable properties.
What are popular job titles related to Land Development Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Land Development Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Land Development Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Land Development Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
Land Development Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Land Development Engineer job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $92,591 per year, or $44.5 per hour.
Civil Engineer (PE) (Grimes, IA)

Civil Engineer (PE) (Grimes, IA)

Abaci Consulting, Inc.

Grimes, IA

Other

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

CIVIL ENGINEER/PROJECT MANAGER Abaci Consulting, Inc. is seeking a full-time skilled Civil Engineer (PE) to join our team in Grimes, Iowa as a project manager. This position will serve as a leader for engineers and team members in the preparation of land development plans, reports, and proposals in the Des Moines metro and throughout Central Iowa.

Not the right position for you. View our other openings at www.abaciconsulting.com RESPONSIBILITIES Lead the project design of residential and commercial subdivisions including lot and street layout, grading, stormwater management, erosion control, sanitary and storm sewer, water mains, etc. Commercial site planning Deliver complete and accurate project design assignments within schedule and budget parameters Assist with performing onsite construction administration and construction observation services including reporting and monitoring contractor's compliance with contract documents Collaborate with clients, planners, architects, engineers, technicians and surveyors to assure successful project completion BACKGROUND, EXPERIENCE & CREDENTIALS Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering Minimum 5 years of engineering experience Iowa Professional Engineer (or ability to obtain upon employment) AutoCAD Civil 3D experience required Prior experience reading and understanding construction plans, including sheet references and layering required PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL ATTRIBUTES Ability to manage time and workload effectively which includes planning, organizing and prioritizing with attention to detail Ability to maintain relationships with clients, government representatives, contractors, and vendors Interact and communicate effectively and professionally with other team members Desire for professional improvement COMPENSATION Abaci Consulting offers a full suite of benefits to supplement a decidedly competitive salary

ABOUT US Mark McMurphy, PE, PLS, is the President and CEO of Abaci Consulting, Inc. He has directed the company from the outset and has over 30 years of site civil experience in Central Iowa. Our mission is to enhance our community through civil engineering and land surveying services.

We value our client's success, their time and budget and deliver service with honesty, integrity and teamwork. To learn more, visit www.abaciconsulting.com This is a full time position

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