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Project Engineer Co Op Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Project Engineer * Environmental Engineer * Process Safety Engineer * Production Maintenance ... Possess internship or co-op work experience in related industry; * GPA of 3.0 or above at time of ...

Project Engineer * Environmental Engineer * Process Safety Engineer * Production Maintenance ... Possess internship or co-op work experience in related industry; * GPA of 3.0 or above at time of ...

Process Engineer Project Engineer Environmental Engineer Process Safety Engineer Production ... Possess internship or co-op work experience in related industry; GPA of 3.0 or above at time of ...

Civil Engineer in Training

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$61K - $71K/yr

Analyze proposed project solutions to ensure reliability, resource efficiency and cost ... Minimum of 1 year of related professional work or Co-op/Internship experience preferred. * Engineer ...

Civil Engineer in Training

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$61K - $71K/yr

Analyze proposed project solutions to ensure reliability, resource efficiency and cost ... Minimum of 1 year of related professional work or Co-op/Internship experience preferred. * Engineer ...

Showing results 41-60

Project Engineer Co Op information

See Iowa salary details

$42.3K

$85.1K

$127.7K

How much do project engineer co op jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for project engineer co op in Iowa is $85,138.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,500.00 and $97,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Project Engineer Co Op, you typically need a background in engineering fundamentals, problem-solving abilities, and enrollment in an accredited engineering program. Familiarity with CAD software, project management tools like Microsoft Project, and basic understanding of industry standards are commonly expected. Strong teamwork, communication, and adaptability help differentiate top candidates in collaborative and fast-paced environments. These skills ensure effective project support, smooth communication among stakeholders, and successful completion of engineering tasks.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect as a project engineer co op?

As a Project Engineer Co-Op, you will typically support project managers and engineering teams with tasks such as coordinating project schedules, assisting with site inspections, preparing documentation, and communicating with contractors or vendors. You may also have opportunities to participate in meetings, track project progress, and contribute to problem-solving sessions. This hands-on experience allows you to apply your academic knowledge to real-world engineering challenges while developing key skills like teamwork, technical communication, and project management.

What is the difference between Project Engineer Co Op vs Project Engineer?

AspectProject Engineer Co OpProject Engineer
CredentialsTypically pursuing or recently completed a bachelor's degree in engineeringUsually holds a bachelor's degree in engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentInternship or temporary position, often part-time during studiesFull-time professional role in project management and engineering tasks
Employer UsageUsed by companies for internship programs to develop future engineersUsed by companies for ongoing project execution and management

The Project Engineer Co Op is an entry-level, temporary position designed for students gaining practical experience, while the Project Engineer is a full-time role responsible for managing projects and coordinating engineering activities. The Co Op provides a stepping stone into the industry, whereas the Project Engineer role involves more responsibility and independence.

What is a project engineer co op?

A Project Engineer Co Op is a cooperative education position typically offered to students in engineering programs. It provides hands-on experience by allowing students to work alongside professional engineers on real-world projects, often as part of their academic curriculum. Project Engineer Co Ops assist with project planning, design, coordination, and implementation while gaining industry knowledge and practical skills. These roles are usually temporary and intended to bridge the gap between classroom learning and full-time engineering work. The experience gained can be valuable for future career opportunities in engineering.
What are the most commonly searched types of Project Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Project Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Project Engineer Co Op jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Project Engineer Co Op job openings:
Infographic showing various Project Engineer Co Op job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,138 per year, or $40.9 per hour.

Project Engineer Transportation

MSA Professional Services, Inc.

Ankeny, IA • On-site

$79K - $126K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 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 446 rated engineering


Job description

Overview
MSA Professional Services is seeking a Project Engineer - Transportation to support the planning, design, and delivery of roadiway infrastructure projects throughout Iowa.
This role is ideal for a motivated civil engineer who enjoys balancing technical design work with client interaction and project coordination. You will work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams on building design projects while contributing to project management, public engagement, and mentoring efforts.
MSA Professional Services is 100% employee-owned, meaning every employee has a direct stake in the success of the company. This ownership mindset drives our collaborative culture, long-term thinking, and commitment to delivering high-quality work for the communities we serve.
Come join the ownership team at MSA!
Employee Testimonial:
"As an employee-owned company (100% ESOP), working at MSA is not just a job. We're genuine co-owners, and this ESOP setup promotes a culture of collaboration and engagement throughout MSA because we all have a direct financial interest as owners."
-Project Engineer Transportation, Cedar Rapids Office
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

Transportation Design
  • Design roadway infrastructure projects
  • 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
Education
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering required

Experience
  • Minimum of 4 years of mobility/transportation engineering experience required
  • Iowa DOT project experience preferred
  • Experience using Bentley OpenRoads Designer

Licensure
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license required

Skills
  • Experience with transportation infrastructure design and project delivery
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Previous client liaison and project management experience, or a desire to grow into that role
  • Ability to collaborate effectively within a consulting environment
  • Strong organizational and problem-solving skills
  • Experience preparing technical reports, specifications, and bidding documents
  • Desire to work in a fast-paced consulting environment supporting public infrastructure projects
Why MSA
  • 100% employee-owned firm with 100+ years of community impact
  • Collaborative culture with in-house experts for all disciplines across the firm
  • Flexible work-life integration
  • Ongoing learning and professional growth opportunities for all positions
  • Commitment to fostering a work environment where employees have a strong sense of inclusion and belonging
  • Included on the "ENR Top 500 Design Firms" for over 27 straight years
Additional Benefits
Eligible employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package, including:
  • Compensation Range: $79,000 -$126,500 (commensurate with experience)
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) - As a 100% employee-owned company, eligible employees receive company shares at no cost
  • Flex Time: Work 42 hours this week? Have 2 hours added to your Flex Time balance to use as time off in the future
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan - Generous employer match that is immediately 100% vested
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance for employees and eligible dependents
  • Paid Time Off - Minimum of 17 days in the first year
  • Paid Holidays - 8 holidays annually
  • Paid Parental Leave - regardless of birth parent
  • Employer-Paid Insurance - Life, short-term disability, and long-term disability coverage
  • Short-Term Incentive Program (STIP) - Annual performance-based bonus opportunity
Equal Opportunity Employer
MSA is 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, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
MSA is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply.
Reasonable Accommodation Statement
If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact hr@msa-ps.com so we can assist you.

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