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Professional Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

WFR

Engineer - TN Visa Professional

Waukon, IA

$77K - $103K/yr

... Visa professionals from Mexico or Canada who are passionate about agricultural operations, equipment reliability, facility maintenance, and continuous improvement. The Engineer will support ...

Melloy Search Group

Civil Engineer

Iowa City, IA

... Professional Engineer (PE) license • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite; working knowledge of Autodesk Civil 3D and Bluebeam Revu • Understanding of the practical application of civil ...

XTGlobal, Inc.

OKTA Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$80K - $107K/yr

OKTA Engineer Required Skills : Okta SME 100% REMOTE Responsibilities * Identify opportunities for using Web Access Management to leverage single sign on security with an emphasis on cost containment ...

TERRACON

Geotechnical Staff Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

Mentorship from experienced Professional Engineers. * Exposure to a wide variety of projects and market sectors. * A collaborative environment that emphasizes safety, quality, and professional ...

Larson Engineering

Structural Engineer

Clive, IA · On-site

Licensed Professional Engineer or Structural Engineer * Experience is required in structural design using steel, concrete, wood, and masonry * Excellent verbal and written communication skills

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Professional Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$43.7K

$91.2K

$128.2K

How much do professional engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional engineer in Iowa is $91,168.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,500.00 and $103,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Professional Engineers?

Professional Engineers (PEs) are licensed engineers who have met the education, experience, and exam requirements established by their state or country. They are legally authorized to sign off on engineering projects, offer their services to the public, and take responsibility for the safety and integrity of engineering work. Becoming a PE typically involves earning an accredited engineering degree, passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, gaining relevant work experience, and passing the Professional Engineering (PE) exam. The PE license signifies a high standard of competence and ethics in the engineering profession.

What is the difference between Professional Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectProfessional EngineerMechanical Engineer
CredentialsRequires PE license, degree, work experience, examRequires degree, possibly fundamentals exam, but not license
Work EnvironmentDesign, review, sign off on projects, often in consulting or engineering firmsDesign, analysis, manufacturing, and testing in various industries
Industry UsageLicensed in engineering projects, legal responsibilityCommonly employed in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and more

The main difference between a Professional Engineer and a Mechanical Engineer is that the PE is licensed and authorized to sign off on engineering projects, ensuring legal and safety standards are met. Mechanical Engineers typically hold the necessary education and experience but do not have licensing requirements unless they pursue PE licensure. Both roles work closely in engineering fields, but the PE designation signifies a higher level of responsibility and legal accountability.

Can you make $250,000 as an engineer?

Professional engineers can earn $250,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or leadership roles in high-demand industries such as aerospace, petroleum, or software engineering. Salaries vary based on location, specialization, and employer, with senior-level positions and specialized skills commanding higher compensation.

What Do Professional Engineers Do?

A professional engineer uses mathematics and science to create safe and efficient buildings, machines, and applications. Engineers typically specialize in a particular field, such as aerospace, mechanical, or structural engineering. Your job duties vary depending on your area of expertise and employer but may include creating plans, designing machinery, or building skyscrapers. This career often involves a combination of office and field work. Frequent travel is an additional job requirement for many professional engineering jobs. Long hours and overtime work are also expected to meet deadlines.

What are some common challenges Professional Engineers face when managing multiple projects simultaneously?

Professional Engineers often juggle several projects at once, which can present challenges in prioritizing tasks, coordinating with diverse teams, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Effective time management and clear communication are essential to handle shifting deadlines and resource allocation. Collaborating closely with project managers, clients, and other engineers helps maintain project momentum and quality, while regular progress reviews ensure that no critical detail is overlooked.

What engineering jobs pay $500,000?

High-level engineering roles such as petroleum engineers, aerospace engineers, and engineering managers can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. These positions often involve working in specialized industries, managing large projects, or overseeing teams in high-demand sectors like oil and gas, aerospace, or technology companies.

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

To thrive as a Professional Engineer, you need a solid grasp of engineering principles, problem-solving skills, and a degree in engineering, typically complemented by a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, or project management tools, along with ongoing continuing education, is often required. Strong communication, teamwork, and project management abilities help engineers deliver effective solutions and collaborate with diverse stakeholders. These skills and qualifications ensure engineers can design safe, efficient systems and maintain high professional standards in complex technical environments.

What can you do as a professional engineer?

A professional engineer designs, develops, and evaluates systems, structures, or processes within their engineering discipline. They often hold a license that allows them to approve projects, sign off on plans, and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Professional engineers work in various industries such as construction, manufacturing, and technology, using technical skills and tools like CAD software and engineering principles.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as petroleum, aerospace, software, and electrical engineering often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or leadership roles. High-paying engineering positions typically require specialized skills, advanced degrees, and sometimes management responsibilities or working in high-demand industries.
More about Professional Engineer jobs
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What job categories do people searching Professional Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Professional Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Professional Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Professional Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Professional Engineer jobs in IA? For Professional Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Professional Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Professional Engineer job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,168 per year, or $43.8 per hour.
Professional Engineer or Project Manager

Professional Engineer or Project Manager

Des Moines Water Works

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$97K - $169K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

JOB SUMMARY Under the supervision of the Engineering Supervisor, the Project Manager independently leads complex engineering projects from concept through closeout. This role functions as the highest non-supervisory level in the department, requiringadvanced technical judgment, providing informal mentorship to junior engineers, and ensuring projects are delivered safely, on schedule, within budget, and in alignment with organizational goals. The Project Manager takes full ownership of assigned capital and operational projects, including scope development, technical design, cost tracking, consultant management, construction oversight, and communication with internal and external stakeholders.

Professional Engineer Salary Range: $97,105.19 to $136,918.31 Project Manager Salary Range: $ 120,178.88 to $169,452.22 EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS To review the complete job descriptions including the knowledge, skills, and abilities, for the Professional Engineer or the Project Manager position please navigate to the website hyperlinks below: Professional Engineer Project Manager, Engineering QUALIFICATIONS PROFESSIONAL ENGINEER QUALIFICATIONS: Education: Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering Experience: At least four (4) years of experience in designing general civil, environmental, structural, mechanical, electrical, chemical, and/or process improvements, including experience in managing all phases of projects from conception to completion. Licenses/Certifications: Professional Engineer (PE) license issued by the State of Iowa. Must possess a valid driver's license with good driving record

This position requires Driver remain insurable under the Company's coverage. PROJECT MANAGER QUALIFICATIONS: Education: Bachelor's degree in engineering or closely related field. Experience: At least eight (8) years of progressive engineering experience, including a minimum of two years in the design and construction of water treatment, facilities, or process-related projects.

Experience working effectively in a team environment, with accountability for resources, project schedules, and finances. An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential functions of the job may be substituted. Licenses/Certifications: Active registration in Iowa as a Professional Engineer (PE).

Must possess a valid driver's license with good driving record. This position requires Driver remain insurable under the Company's coverage. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Master of Science in Engineering.

IDNR Grade II Water Distribution Operator and/or Grade II Water Treatment License. Experience designing and constructing water system improvement projects. BOTH POSITIONS: HARDWARE/SOFTWARE/EQUIPMENT/TOOLS NEEDED TO PERFORM JOB: Personal computer, smartphone, and general office equipment Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) GIS and hydraulic modeling software CAD software (such as MicroStation or similar tools) Document review and markup software (e.g., Adobe, Bluebeam) SCADA interfaces for facility-related assignments GPS equipment and field data collection tools Safety equipment required for construction or plant environments Ladders, scaffolding, and other access equipment as needed PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Frequently lifts or carries objects up to 10 pounds Occasionally lifts or carries objects up to 25 pounds WORKING CONDITIONS: Frequent work in office environments and outdoor settings, including rights-of-way and construction sites Occasional work in confined spaces, elevated areas, or treatment plant environments Exposure to weather conditions, construction noise, and typical industrial hazards

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