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Land Development Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Olsson

Professional Land Surveyor

Des Moines, IA · On-site

We engineer and design solutions that improve the world around us. As a company, we promise to ... Be empowered to build your career with tailored development paths * Have the possibility for ...

Olsson

Professional Land Surveyor

Des Moines, IA · On-site

We engineer and design solutions that improve the world around us. As a company, we promise to ... Be empowered to build your career with tailored development paths * Have the possibility for ...

Olsson

Civil Engineer - Site Design

Des Moines, IA · On-site

We engineer and design solutions that improve the world around us. As a company, we promise to ... residential land development projects, along with industrial, sports, schools, and other site ...

Olsson

Civil Engineer - Site Design

Des Moines, IA · On-site

We engineer and design solutions that improve the world around us. As a company, we promise to ... residential land development projects, along with industrial, sports, schools, and other site ...

IMEG

Senior Civil Engineer

Des Moines, IA

Civil Team Highlights IMEG'scivil engineers deliver comprehensive land development services for both private and public sector projects, including site planning, grading, utilities, and permitting ...

Olsson

Project Civil Engineer - Site Design

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$83K - $110K/yr

We engineer and design solutions that improve the world around us. As a company, we promise to ... land development projects, along with municipal, industrial, sports, schools, and other site ...

Olsson

Project Civil Engineer - Site Design

Des Moines, IA · On-site +1

$83K - $110K/yr

We engineer and design solutions that improve the world around us. As a company, we promise to ... land development projects, along with municipal, industrial, sports, schools, and other site ...

TRC Companies

Land Document Manager

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

Pioneer. TRC has long set the bar for clients who require more than just engineering, combining ... the development of new skills and certifications. Responsibilities The Land Document Project ...

TRC Companies, Inc.

Land Document Manager

Ely, IA · On-site

$80K - $84K/yr

Pioneer. TRC has long set the bar for clients who require more than just engineering, combining ... the development of new skills and certifications. Responsibilities The Land Document Project ...

TRC Companies

Land Document Manager

Ely, IA · On-site

Pioneer. TRC has long set the bar for clients who require more than just engineering, combining ... the development of new skills and certifications. Responsibilities The Land Document Project ...

Stantec

Civil Engineer in Training

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$61K - $71K/yr

Your Opportunity As a Civil Engineer in Training in our Community Development Group, you will have the opportunity to work on a wide variety of innovative and diverse land development projects. This ...

Stantec

Civil Engineer in Training

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$61K - $71K/yr

Your Opportunity As a Civil Engineer in Training in our Community Development Group, you will have the opportunity to work on a wide variety of innovative and diverse land development projects. This ...

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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 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.
Professional Land Surveyor

Professional Land Surveyor

Olsson

Des Moines, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Company Description

We are Olsson. We engineer and design solutions that improve the world around us. As a company, we promise to always be responsive, transparent, and focused on results – for our people, our clients, and our company.

We're a people-centric firm, so it's no surprise our greatest asset is our people. The impact this creates is an environment that encourages our people to grow and be creative with their talents. This approach builds a culture that is uniquely Olsson. It allows us to grow our people as we grow our business. This, in turn, creates a lasting impact on the world around us.

Job Description

Olsson is currently seeking a Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) to join our team. As a PLS with Olsson, you'll have the opportunity to use cutting-edge technology like drones, GPS scanning, Trimble, and more. You'll play a vital role in maintaining client relationships, leading our survey crew and drafting technicians, managing projects, providing training, and ensuring survey accuracy. Join us as a PLS at Olsson and showcase your expertise in a dynamic and innovative environment.

Responsibilities:

  • Foster and maintain strong client relationships, ensuring their satisfaction throughout the surveying process.
  • Lead and supervise survey crew staff and drafting technicians, providing guidance and support.
  • Efficiently manage projects, from initiation to completion, ensuring all deliverables are met on time and within budget.
  • Provide comprehensive training and mentorship to our staff, sharing your wealth of knowledge and expertise.
  • Take ownership of project estimates and job proposals, demonstrating your meticulous attention to detail.
  • Assume responsibility for the financial performance of your assigned projects, ensuring profitability and cost-effectiveness.

We will consider candidates interested in being located in our Lincoln, NE, Omaha, NE or Des Moines, IA offices.

This role includes:

  • The use of a company truck for transportation to and from job sites.
  • Applicable PPE (personal protective equipment) provided.
  • Prescription safety eyewear and work boot reimbursement program.
  • Company issued laptop.
  • Cell phone reimbursement options.
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 on a team.
  • Excellent interpersonal and problem-solving skills.
  • 8 years of experience in the survey field performing and managing land surveys, such as property and right-of-way determinations, boundary, ALTA, platting, land divisions and topographic surveys.
  • Licensed Professional Land Surveyor, required.
  • Proficient in AutoCAD and Trimble business center.

#LI-DD1

Additional Information

Olsson specializes in engineering and design, client advisory services, planning, field services, and environmental. Improving the world has been our mindset from the very beginning, back when Olsson first opened for business in 1956. And it will be our mindset for years to come.

As an Olsson employee, you will:

  • Receive a competitive 401(k) match
  • Be empowered to build your career with tailored development paths
  • Have the possibility for flexible work arrangements
  • Engage in work that has a positive impact on communities
  • Participate in a wellness program promoting balanced lifestyles

In addition, full-time employees will receive our traditional benefits package (health care, vision, dental, paid time off, etc.) and the opportunity to participate in a bonus system that rewards performance.

Olsson is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage qualified minority, female, veteran, and disabled candidates to apply and be considered for open positions. We do not discriminate against any applicant for employment or any employee because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender, disability, age, military status, or other protected status.

Olsson understands the importance of privacy and is committed to protecting job applicants' personal information. Pursuant to the California Consumer Privacy Act, as amended by the California Privacy Rights Act (collectively, the "CCPA"), this notice explains Olsson's practices regarding the collection, use, and disclosure of personal information for job applicants residing in California. Please read this Notice carefully to understand our privacy practices.

For more information about the types of information we collect and how we use it in connection with your general access and use of our website, please review our general California Privacy Notice here.