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Project Assistant Jobs in Des Moines, IA (NOW HIRING)

The Project Assistant (PA) fulfills a vital role in the construction industry and to the success of Story Construction Co. This position requires strong organizational skills, high accuracy, a keen ...

The Project Assistant (PA) fulfills a vital role in the construction industry and to the success of Story Construction Co. This position requires strong organizational skills, high accuracy, a keen ...

The Project Assistant (PA) fulfills a vital role in the construction industry and to the success of Story Construction Co. This position requires strong organizational skills, high accuracy, a keen ...

Project Accountant

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$57K - $75K/yr

Lead or assist others with special projects * Assist in covering workloads for open positions or during employee absences * Perform continuous process review and improvement through innovative ...

What this job involves - As an Assistant Project Manager at JLL, you will be providing reliable, timely, and professional support to Senior Project Managers on large projects initiatives and function ...

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Project Assistant information

See Des Moines, IA salary details

$13

$21

$30

How much do project assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for project assistant in Des Moines, IA is $21.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.88 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a project assistant?

A project assistant provides support to the project team and helps make sure projects get done on time and budget. They answer to the project manager or project administrator or a company director. Job duties include handling communication with everyone on the project team, creating and filing documentation, preparing reports, and serving as a liaison between management and the project team. Other responsibilities may include setting up office equipment—such as computers, printers, and webcams for online conference calls, scheduling meetings and check-ins, and managing the project calendar.

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

To thrive as a Project Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a foundational understanding of project management principles, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with project management software like Microsoft Project, Asana, or Trello, and proficiency in MS Office Suite are typically expected. Excellent communication, teamwork, and time management skills help you support project managers and coordinate among stakeholders effectively. These skills ensure projects run smoothly, deadlines are met, and teams stay aligned on objectives.

How does a project assistant typically collaborate with project managers and other team members?

Project Assistants play a crucial role in supporting project managers by organizing schedules, preparing documentation, and facilitating communication among team members. They often attend meetings to take notes, track action items, and ensure deadlines are met. Regular collaboration with various departments is common, as Project Assistants help coordinate resources, gather updates, and address any logistical challenges that arise. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy multitasking and thrive in a dynamic, team-oriented environment.

What is the difference between Project Assistant vs Administrative Assistant?

AspectProject AssistantAdministrative Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; some roles may prefer associate's degree or relevant certificationsHigh school diploma; often no specific certifications required
Work EnvironmentProject sites, offices, collaborative team settingsOffice settings, administrative departments
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, IT, consulting, engineeringCorporate offices, government agencies, nonprofits
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for support roles in projectsCompared for general office support roles

The Project Assistant and Administrative Assistant roles share similarities in supporting organizational functions, but Project Assistants focus more on supporting specific projects, often requiring knowledge of project management processes. Administrative Assistants handle broader administrative tasks across departments. Both roles are essential in various industries, but their focus and work environments differ slightly.

Can I get into project management with no experience?

Project assistants often start with little or no experience and can transition into project management roles by gaining relevant skills such as communication, organization, and familiarity with project management tools like MS Project or Trello. Entry-level positions may require some related experience or certifications like CAPM, and gaining practical experience through internships or volunteering can improve prospects.

Is a project assistant a good job?

A project assistant role involves supporting project managers with tasks such as scheduling, documentation, and communication. It can be a good entry-level position for those interested in project management, offering opportunities to develop organizational and communication skills in various industries. Job satisfaction depends on the work environment and career goals.

What are the most commonly searched types of Project jobs in Des Moines, IA?

The most popular types of Project jobs in Des Moines, IA are:

What are popular job titles related to Project Assistant jobs in Des Moines, IA?

For Project Assistant jobs in Des Moines, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Des Moines, IA are hiring for Project Assistant jobs?

Cities near Des Moines, IA with the most Project Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Project Assistant job openings in Des Moines, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,735 per year, or $21 per hour.

Project Assistant

Story Construction

Ames, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Story Construction is a 100% employee-owned general contractor, construction manager, and design-builder with offices in Ames, IA and Sioux City, IA. As an employee of Story Construction, you'll have the opportunity to join the ownership group through our employee stock ownership plan (ESOP). At Story, we focus on having a good day, every day, regardless of your role. Everything we do revolves around building a joyful work environment and making a difference in the communities in which we work.

Position Summary:

The Project Assistant (PA) fulfills a vital role in the construction industry and to the success of Story Construction Co. This position requires strong organizational skills, high accuracy, a keen eye for details, and the ability to become proficient in our industry-specific software programs.  The PA provides administrative support for general construction and construction management projects. This position interacts with various departments within the company and reports to the Office Manager. The PA also acts as a liaison between Story Construction, subcontractors, and suppliers.


FSLA Designation: Full-time, non-exempt

Working Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00AM - 5:00PM


Summary Of Duties:

  • Organizes records, compiles reports, and maintains project files.
  • Accurately enters project data into the appropriate software systems.
  • Generates and prepares subcontracts, purchase orders, and other project related documents as assigned.
  • Monitors document status until each has been executed, returned, scanned, and filed.
  • Maintains all documents for each project using the established filing and storage systems; seeks out missing documents.
  • Creates subcontractor/supplier lists for each project.
  • Assists with the scheduling of regular meetings as required by the project team. Prepares and distributes agendas, action items, meeting reminders, and minutes for regular meetings.
  • Provides administrative support for assigned jobs, thereby enabling the Project Manager, Project Engineer, and Superintendent to focus on other aspects of the construction project.
  • Additional duties as assigned.


Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent. 
  • Previous experience (2+ years) as an administrative assistant in an office role preferred, but not required. 
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office.


Travel: Occasional out-of-town travel to jobsites during the work day may be expected.


Benefits:

  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan
  • 3 weeks of PTO and 6 paid holidays
  • 401K with a company match
  • Year-end bonus eligibility 
  • Health, delta, vision, and supplemental insurance options
  • Paid bereavement leave
  • Company-paid employee assistant program
  • Company-paid term life insurance, AD&D, and long-term disability 
  • Medical and dependent care flex benefit plans
  • Weekly pay



Working Conditions & Physical Requirements: 

Primarily works out of the office; however, may be exposed to fumes, airborne particles, moving mechanical parts, vibrations, loud noises, and more within OSHA standards when visiting the jobsite. 


This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship or relocation assistance.  


Story Construction is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Story is a drug-free workplace, and employment is contingent on the successful passing of a drug test. Visa sponsorship is not available at this time; Story Construction participates in E-Verify.