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Public Works Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

City of Des Moines

Public Works Assistant

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$31.87 - $33.22/hr

Click here to review the full Class Specifications | Public Works Assistant | Class Spec Details Acceptable Experience and Training Graduation from high school or possession of a GED; and One (1) ...

City of Dubuque

Office Assistant (Part-time)

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$21.48 - $28.07/hr

A customer-focused and detail-oriented Office Assistant to support daily operations in a fast-paced ... Public Works services and plays a critical role in ensuring inquiries and service requests are ...

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Public Works Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$9

$24

$57

How much do public works assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for public works assistant in Iowa is $24.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.65 and $26.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a public works assistant?

Public Works Assistants are support staff who help maintain and improve public infrastructure such as roads, parks, water systems, and public buildings. They assist with tasks like repairs, construction, cleaning, and equipment maintenance under the supervision of public works supervisors or managers. Their work ensures that community facilities and services remain safe, functional, and accessible for residents. Public Works Assistants may also help with administrative duties, reporting issues, and providing customer service to the public.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public works assistant?

To thrive as a Public Works Assistant, you generally need knowledge of construction practices, maintenance procedures, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with maintenance tools, work order management systems, and sometimes a valid driver’s license are typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help individuals excel in coordinating with crews and responding to public concerns. These abilities ensure effective infrastructure maintenance, public safety, and smooth operation of municipal services.

What are some common challenges faced by public works assistants in coordinating with multiple departments?

Public Works Assistants often serve as a bridge between various municipal departments, such as engineering, sanitation, and parks. Coordinating schedules, managing conflicting priorities, and ensuring clear communication can be challenging, especially during large projects or emergency situations. Effective organization and proactive communication are key to overcoming these challenges and maintaining project timelines. Building strong working relationships with colleagues in other departments also helps streamline workflows and resolve issues quickly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Public Works jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Public Works jobs in Iowa are:

Public Works Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Works Assistant job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% Internship, 53% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 20% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,241 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Public Works Assistant

City of Des Moines

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$31.87 - $33.22/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

City Of Des Moines (Iowa) rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

98th of 854 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

General Statement of Duties Under general supervision, performs various responsible work related to the protection, maintenance, and security of City facilities. Responsibilities include placing traffic safety devices, patrolling Public Works buildings and grounds to identify hazards or unauthorized activity, and responding directly to public safety concerns. Work Assignment: Shifts could include days, evenings, nights and weekends.

Click here to review the full job description: Class Specifications | Public Works Assistant | Class Spec Details Acceptable Experience and Training Graduation from high school or possession of a GED; and One (1) year of experience in general labor or basic office or administrative experience. Required Special Qualifications Candidates for positions in this class must pass a post-employment offer background check, physical examination and drug screen. Possession of a valid State of Iowa Driver's license.

NOTE: If you possess an out-of-state license, you must submit a certified driving record by the application deadline. These records must be submitted to the City of Des Moines Human Resources Department by the application deadline. You may submit them electronically to humanresources@dmgov.org, by fax to 515-237-1680, or by mail to 1200 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309 by the application deadline date

Examples of Essential Work (Illustrative Only) Patrols buildings and grounds to check on safety hazards or trespassers. Received and responds to telephone calls by providing information or routing inquiries and complaints to the appropriate departments. Places barricades and blinkers at traffic hazards.

Receives and clears Iowa One Call locate requests, dispatches on-call Utility Locator if necessary. Receives and dispatches emergency calls on radio. Drives a truck transporting material or employees.

Removes trash from streets and right of way. Inputs and retrieves data from a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS). Performs related work as required.

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