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Professional Structural Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Job Title - Structural Engineer Location - Muscatine, IA Job Type - Hybrid Requisition ID - 11234 ... Professional Growth. When your skills grow, so do we, which is why we offer tuition assistance ...

Structural Project Manager

Coralville, IA

$73.10K - $97.80K/yr

QUALIFICATIONS • Bachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering from an accredited college or university • Professional Engineer (PE) required, Structural Engineer (SE) preferred • Strong ...

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Professional Structural Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$47K

$93.4K

$142.8K

How much do professional structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional structural engineer in Iowa is $93,363.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,100.00 and $106,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Professional Structural Engineer, you need strong analytical abilities, a solid background in civil or structural engineering, and a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Proficiency in structural analysis software such as SAP2000, AutoCAD, or Revit, along with knowledge of relevant building codes and standards, is typically required. Effective communication, problem-solving, and teamwork are vital soft skills for collaborating with architects, contractors, and clients. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, efficient, and compliant structural designs that meet project objectives and regulatory requirements.

What are some common challenges Professional Structural Engineers face when working on multidisciplinary projects?

Professional Structural Engineers often collaborate closely with architects, mechanical, electrical, and civil engineers during large-scale projects. One common challenge is ensuring that the structural design aligns seamlessly with architectural intent and the requirements of other engineering disciplines while adhering to safety codes and budget constraints. Effective communication and coordination are essential to resolve design conflicts and adapt to changes that may arise throughout the project lifecycle. Developing strong project management and teamwork skills can help overcome these challenges and ensure successful project delivery.

What are professional structural engineers?

Professional structural engineers are licensed experts who design, analyze, and oversee the construction of structures such as buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that structures are safe, stable, and capable of withstanding various forces like gravity, wind, and earthquakes. They work closely with architects, builders, and other engineers to create plans and specifications, select appropriate materials, and address any structural issues that arise during construction. To become a professional structural engineer, individuals typically need a degree in civil or structural engineering, relevant work experience, and a professional engineering license.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior-level professional structural engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries or large firms. Achieving this salary often requires leadership roles, project management, or working in regions with higher compensation standards.

What is the difference between Professional Structural Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectProfessional Structural EngineerCivil Engineer
CredentialsRequires PE license, structural engineering certificationRequires PE license, civil engineering degree
Work EnvironmentFocuses on structural design, analysis, and safety of buildings and bridgesInvolves infrastructure, transportation, and urban development projects
Industry UsageSpecialized in structural integrity and safetyBroader scope including transportation, water resources, and urban planning

The main difference is that a Professional Structural Engineer specializes in structural design and safety, often requiring specific structural certifications, while a Civil Engineer has a broader focus on infrastructure projects. Both roles require a PE license, but their work environments and project types differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Structural Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Structural Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
Infographic showing various Professional Structural Engineer job openings in Iowa as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,363 per year, or $44.9 per hour.

Structural Engineer - Industrial

Shive Hattery Group, Inc.

West Des Moines, IA

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Description

Shive-Hattery is a premier architecture and engineering consulting firm headquartered in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. In total, the firm has 16 offices across the US. Shive-Hattery was founded in 1895 and has earned and maintained a strong reputation for excellence in client focus, quality service and communication. The firm prides itself on its One Firm, full-service offering; placing the best people with their clients, no matter the project location.


Shive-Hattery's West Des Moines IA office has an immediate opportunity for a licensed Structural Engineer with 5 to 10 years of experience in the design and leadership of structural engineering projects. 


 Design projects as a structural engineer for industrial, commercial, and education projects of various sizes with the main focus on industrial projects. Work with experienced engineers and technicians while coordinating work within multi-discipline teams. The majority of efforts will focus on our long-standing industrial clients who we work with locally and nationally.

  • Lead the structural design portion of projects, make design recommendations and decisions, and oversee the completion and quality of construction drawings, specifications, reports and other project documentation.
  • Establish and manage structural scope, schedule, and budget.
  • Mentor and teach other team members.
  • Lead the structural design of a project from schematic design through construction documents for both single-discipline and multi-discipline projects.
  • Interact with and be a representative of the company with clients and contractors as it relates to on-going projects.
  • Work on multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Manage shop drawing reviews and field data collection.

Why Shive-Hattery?


You will find the right balance at Shive-Hattery. A large pool of resources in a 500+ person design firm, with a small firm feel where you build personal connections with colleagues, partners and clients. Flourish as a professional with the freedom to chart your own course and make an impact - and Design What Matters to make the world a better place.


Our learning and teaching culture is founded on collaboration. You will learn from and teach other employees while working across disciplines. You will grow your skills and continue your professional growth at Shive-Hattery.


Shive-Hattery offers an outstanding and competitive total compensation package including competitive pay and over 35 different benefits.

Benefit Highlights

           Medical, Dental, Vision - 4 tiers of coverage

           Voluntary Life Insurance - Employee, Spouse, and Child 

           Voluntary Insurance Plans - Accident, Critical Illness, & Hospital Indemnity

           FSA - Medical & Dependent Care

           8 Paid Holidays + PTO 

           Paid Parental Leave

           401K/Roth 401K with Company Match 

           Overtime Bonus 

           Profit Sharing Bonus

           First Time License Bonus

           Tuition Reimbursement & Licensure/Certification Financial Support

           Professional Development Opportunities 

           Calm Meditation & Stress Relief Subscription

           ...And Many More!

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

  • At this time, we are unable to provide visa sponsorship now or in the future. Candidates must have current and ongoing authorization to work in the United States without employer sponsorship.

Notice to Recruiters and Staffing Agencies: To protect the interests of all parties, Shive-Hattery and its partners will not accept unsolicited candidate submissions from a recruiter or staffing agency who is not operating under an executed recruiting or staffing services contract with Shive-Hattery. Please do not contact our employees directly in that regard or otherwise submit unsolicited candidate information in any form.


Shive-Hattery offers a flexible work environment and supports balancing personal and professional responsibilities. We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Requirements

  • Education: Bachelor's degree in engineering from an accredited program
  • Experience: 5 to 10 years of experience in the design and leadership of structural engineering projects.  
  • License/Certification: Professional Engineer licensure in Iowa or the ability for immediate licensure in Iowa
  • Proficiency with Autodesk Revit and Microsoft Office
  • Structural design experience using concrete, steel, and masonry. Wood design would be a plus.
  • Experience and willingness to provide direction to young engineers and designers, along with collaborating with other disciplines.
  • Must be able to drive and have access to an automobile, climb ladders and work off of elevated platforms and open grating, and wear personal protective equipment required for specific clients and sites.
  • Ability to manage time and workload effectively, which includes planning, organizing, and prioritizing work.
  • Must have good attention to detail.
  • Possess good oral and written communication skills, and comfortable presenting design solutions to Owners.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience using 3D software (Navisworks/Recap), and other structural engineering design software is preferred.