ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Professional Structural Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Melloy Search Group

Structural Project Manager

Coralville, IA · On-site

$73K - $97K/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 ...

W3Global Inc.

Structural Revit Designer

Coralville, IA · Hybrid

$100K - $125K/yr

Professional Engineer (PE) license is required for the Project Manager position. * PE license is strongly preferred for the Project Engineer position. * Structural Engineer (SE) license is highly ...

W3Global Inc.

Structural Revit Designer

Coralville, IA · Hybrid

$100K - $125K/yr

Professional Engineer (PE) license is required for the Project Manager position. * PE license is strongly preferred for the Project Engineer position. * Structural Engineer (SE) license is highly ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsProfessional Structural Engineer JobsProfessional Structural Engineer Jobs in Iowa

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 Jul 13, 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 engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced professional structural engineers with advanced expertise, leadership roles, or specialized skills in large-scale projects can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and profit sharing. Such compensation typically requires extensive experience, advanced certifications, and work in high-demand industries or senior management positions.

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 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 engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior professional structural engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries or large firms. Achieving this salary often requires leadership roles, project management, and expertise in complex projects or advanced software tools.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Highly experienced professional structural engineers with advanced expertise, leadership roles, or working in specialized industries can earn $300,000 or more annually. Achieving this level often requires extensive experience, advanced certifications, and involvement in large-scale or complex projects.

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.

How much does a professional structural engineer make?

A professional structural engineer's average salary varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $70,000 to $130,000 annually. Entry-level engineers earn around $60,000 to $80,000, while experienced professionals with licensure and specialized skills can earn over $150,000. Salary may also depend on the complexity of projects and the employer's size.

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 the most commonly searched types of Structural Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Structural Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
Professional Structural Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Professional Structural 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 $93,363 per year, or $44.9 per hour.

Structural Engineer - Bridge

Shive Hattery Group, Inc.

West Des Moines, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 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 17 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.


Join Shive-Hattery’s West Des Moines, IA Transportation Team as a Bridge Engineer and advance your career while leading innovative bridge and civil structures projects. In this role, you’ll work closely with clients and have the opportunity to contribute to a variety of projects, including:


  • Bridge and box culvert design
  • Lake and dam spillways
  • Retaining walls and tunnels
  • Park structures
  • Water and wastewater treatment plant concrete tanks
  • Riverfront developments


Joe Appel, Structural Engineer SE, PE, LEED AP, shares:


“Working on this major structural and roadway project with the talented multi-discipline Shive-Hattery team, as well as the bridge consultants and Iowa and Illinois DOTs has been rewarding at many levels. Seeing the bridge being built and then used by pedestrians and motorists has been an ongoing example of the impacts that our work can have for the public good and what the addition of aesthetics and landscaping can add to a functional design. In essence, we are linking communities with innovative designs!”



You will find the right balance at Shive-Hattery. A large pool of resources in a 600+ 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.


At Shive-Hattery, our learning and teaching culture is built on collaboration. You’ll have the opportunity to both learn from and teach your peers, working across disciplines to enhance your skills and grow professionally.



If you have a passion to make clients successful, create thoughtfully designed public improvements and have these educational and professional experiences apply now:



Requirements:


  • Design projects as a structural engineer for transportation projects of various sizes. Work with experienced engineers and technicians while coordinating work within multi-discipline teams. The majority of efforts will focus on our long-standing public infrastructure clients who we work with locally and nationally
  • Must be capable of working on multiple projects simultaneously
  • 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
  • Additional responsibilities include overseeing shop drawing reviews
  • Education: Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering or a related field
  • Experience: 4+ years in Structural Engineering
  • License/Certification: Professional Engineer license in Iowa or the ability to obtain license within 12 months
  • Experience leading project teams and interfacing with clients
  • Experience with OpenBridge Modeler, OpenRoads Designer, Microstation and other bridge design software is a an advantage Experience with Iowa DOT projects is a plus



Why Shive-Hattery?


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.

We offer a competitive total compensation package, including industry-leading pay and over thirty-five benefits designed to support your well-being and career development.


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.