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Mechanical Project Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Project Manager - Mechanical

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$85K - $116K/yr

Manage material, manpower, and processes of mechanical projects * Purchase material, schedule work, estimate change orders, and contract sub-contractors * Execute assigned equipment projects and ...

Project Manager - Mechanical

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$88K - $120K/yr

Manage material, manpower, and processes of mechanical projects * Purchase material, schedule work, estimate change orders, and contract sub-contractors * Execute assigned equipment projects and ...

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Mechanical Project Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$44.1K

$99.3K

$134.8K

How much do mechanical project manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical project manager in Iowa is $99,287.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,000.00 and $115,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mechanical project manager?

A mechanical project manager coordinates activities on a mechanical construction project. As a mechanical project manager, you monitor the status of a project to ensure that it stays on schedule. You also make sure that the project is in compliance with all safety, labor, and zoning regulations. You typically spend less time on a work site than a construction manager and handle administrative duties such as budgeting and managing agreements with subcontractors. You may need a bachelor’s degree in engineering, building science, or a related field, but an associate degree and ample experience are often enough. Certification from the American Institute of Constructors or Construction Management Association of America is desirable.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mechanical project manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mechanical Project Manager, you need a solid foundation in mechanical engineering principles, project management methodologies, and relevant industry experience, often supported by a bachelor's degree and PMP certification. Familiarity with project management software (such as MS Project or Primavera), CAD systems, and budgeting tools is typically required. Exceptional organizational, leadership, and communication skills enable effective team coordination and client relations. These competencies are crucial for delivering projects on time, within scope and budget, and ensuring technical and safety standards are met.

What are some common challenges mechanical project managers face when coordinating multidisciplinary teams on large projects?

Mechanical Project Managers often encounter challenges when collaborating with electrical, civil, and architectural teams, especially on complex projects with tight deadlines. Effective communication and proactive conflict resolution are key, as misalignment between disciplines can lead to delays or budget overruns. Staying organized, understanding each team's workflow, and facilitating regular coordination meetings help ensure everyone is aligned and project milestones are met. Building strong relationships across teams can also foster a collaborative environment and smooth out potential friction points.

What is the difference between Mechanical Project Manager vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectMechanical Project ManagerMechanical Engineer
ResponsibilitiesOversees entire projects, manages teams, coordinates schedules, and ensures project deliveryDesigns, develops, and tests mechanical systems and components
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, PMP certification often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, manufacturing plants, project officesDesign offices, laboratories, manufacturing facilities
Industry UsageConstruction, manufacturing, energy projectsProduct design, R&D, manufacturing

The main difference is that Mechanical Project Managers focus on overseeing entire projects, coordinating teams, and ensuring timely delivery, while Mechanical Engineers concentrate on designing and developing mechanical systems. Both roles require a background in mechanical engineering, but their daily tasks and responsibilities differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Mechanical Project Manager jobs in Iowa?

For Mechanical Project Manager jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Mechanical Project Manager jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Mechanical Project Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Mechanical Project Manager job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,287 per year, or $47.7 per hour.

Mechanical Project Engineer Plumbing

MSA Professional Services, Inc.

Ankeny, IA • On-site

$79K - $126K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


MSA Professional Services rating

9.9

Company rating: 9.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 449 rated engineering


Job description

Overview
Elevate Your Career with MSA: Project Engineer - Plumbing
MSA is excited to announce an opportunity for a Mechanical Project Engineer - Plumbing in our Des Moines or Cedar Rapids, IA office. The successful candidate will be the primary designer in a variety of commercial projects. This role requires a strong understanding of mechanical systems, project management, and effective communication skills.
If you're ready to make your mark and work with a team that values your expertise, apply today!
Why MSA?
  • Innovation and Impact: Work with cutting-edge technology and make a real impact on the built environment.
  • Collaborative Culture: Be part of a supportive team where your contributions are valued and your growth is nurtured.
  • Employee-Owned: Benefit from our 100% employee-owned ESOP program and share in the success you help create.
  • Diverse Projects: Every day is different with a wide range of projects that challenge and inspire.

Responsibilities
Project Management & Client Coordination
  • Support project management activities including project planning, scoping, budgeting, scheduling, and QA/QC
  • Participate in virtual and in-person meetings with existing and prospective clients
  • Assist with client relationship management and project coordination efforts
  • Review and respond to project proposals with support from MSA team members

Plumbing Design
  • Design plumbing design projects for buildings
  • Prepare engineering details, specifications, bidding documents, and technical reports
  • Assist with preparation of regulatory permits and supporting documentation
  • Coordinate with multidisciplinary project teams to deliver high-quality solutions

Public Engagement & Communication
  • Assist with public meeting presentations, display preparation, and stakeholder engagement activities
  • Communicate effectively with clients, agencies, contractors, and internal teams
  • Support project communication and documentation throughout project phases

Construction Support & Mentorship
  • Provide construction-phase support and coordination as needed
  • Construction management and inspection experience is considered a plus
  • Assist with mentoring and supporting junior engineering staff
  • Contribute to team collaboration and continuous improvement initiatives

Qualifications
WHAT YOU BRING
Education
  • Bachelor's degree Mechanical Engineering

Experience
  • Four years of relevant, post-graduate mechanical engineering experience

Required knowledge and skills
  • Knowledge of the philosophies, principals, practices, and techniques of engineering
  • Proficiency with digital tools, which may include Microsoft Office, Revit.
  • Advanced interpersonal skills for facilitating relationships with colleagues
  • Creative problem-solving skills to solve new and challenging problems
  • Ability to mentor less experienced staff
  • The selected candidate must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. without requiring visa sponsorship now or in the future. We are unable to provide or take over sponsorship of an employment visa for this role.

License
  • Professional Engineering License in IA.

Why MSA?
  • Better Together: A collaborative environment that values open ideas, diversity, and authenticity. Our diverse perspectives fuel innovation and success in our employee-owned firm.
  • Multi-disciplinary Opportunities: Follow your interests, explore new experiences, and apply your skills where they have the most impact.
  • We've Got Your Back: Enjoy support when you need it and independence when you don't. We are 500+ strong, working as one cohesive team.
  • Passion & Purpose: We're passionate about our work and proud of it! Share inspirations, "geek out," and think big with us.
  • Pay & Perks: Competitive pay and unique perks that make MSA stand out.
  • Communities of Practice: Our think tanks and idea generators-regular collaboration and learning opportunities.
  • Work-Life Integration: Life doesn't stop when work begins. We support your professional and personal balance.
  • Commitment to Learning: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and cutting-edge technology to keep you connected and creative.
  • Community Engagement: Giving back through volunteering, education, STEM outreach, and event participation, backed by corporate sponsorship and donations.

The salary for this position ranges from $79,000 to $126,500 per year commensurate with experience. Higher compensation within this range will be paid to candidates with significant experience and exceptional qualifications.
Best-in-Industry Benefits - Eligible employees enjoy:
  • Quality Insurance Options: Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family
  • Paid Time Off: Minimum of 17 days in the first year for full-time employees
  • Paid Holidays: 8 holidays per year
  • Paid Parental Leave: 2 weeks for both parents, with additional time for birth parents under MSA's Short Term Paid Leave
  • Supplemental Insurance: 100% paid life, long-term disability, and short-term disability insurance
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP): 100% employee-owned, with stock provided at no cost
  • 401k Retirement Savings Plan: Generous employer match, immediately 100% vested
  • Short Term Incentive (STIP) bonus

MSA is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. At MSA, we value a diverse, inclusive workforce and we provide equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individual's race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws. If you are unable to submit your application because of incompatible assistive technology or a disability, please contact us at hr@msa-ps.com
Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

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