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Land Development Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Caliber Company

Construction Project Manager

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related technical field. * Experience overseeing "ground-up" land development and custom home builds. * Demonstrated ability to ...

Caliber Company

Construction Project Manager

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related technical field. * Experience overseeing "ground-up" land development and custom home builds. * Demonstrated ability to ...

Caliber Company

Construction Project Manager

Johnston, IA · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related technical field. * Experience overseeing "ground-up" land development and custom home builds. * Demonstrated ability to ...

Caliber Company

Construction Project Manager

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related technical field. * Experience overseeing "ground-up" land development and custom home builds. * Demonstrated ability to ...

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Showing results 1-20

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 Jun 21, 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 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 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 June 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.

Director of Engineering

Abaci Consulting, Inc.

Grimes, IA

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

DIRECTOR OF ENGINEERING
Abaci Consulting, Inc. is seeking a full-time Director of Engineering (PE) to join our team in Grimes, Iowa. This position will oversee our Engineering Department, allocating people and resources to best serve our clients, develop team members and manage profitability. The Director of Engineering will report directly to President Mark McMurphy. 
Not the right position for you?  View our other openings at www.abaciconsulting.com
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Establish plans on engineering projects
  • Provide management of engineering teams to ensure schedule and project quality including site planning, subdivisions and grading plans

BACKGROUND, EXPERIENCE & CREDENTIALS
  • 15-plus years of engineering experience, at least 10 of which in land development/site civil
  • Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
  • Iowa Professional Engineer (or ability to obtain upon employment)
  • Positive record of project management and collaboration with private and public sector clients

PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL ATTRIBUTES
  • Ability to mentor and direct team members and identify professional development opportunities
  • Ability to foster a culture of collaboration and accountability
  • Strong financial acumen
  • Maintain relationships with clients, government representatives, contractors, and vendors

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

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