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Public Works Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

City of Norwalk, IA

Public Worker II

IA · On-site

$55K - $77K/yr

Public Works, IA Job Type: Full-time Job Number: 00192 Department: Public Works Opening Date: 07/31/2026 Closing Date: 8/16/2026 11:59 PM Central Help Keep Norwalk Running. Build a Career That ...

City of Norwalk (IA)

Public Worker II

Norwalk, IA

$55K - $77K/yr

The City of Norwalk is looking for a skilled, self-motivated Public Worker II to join our Public Works team, with a primary focus on maintaining the City's facilities. This is more than a maintenance ...

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Public Works information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$22

$41

How much do public works jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for public works in Iowa is $22.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $26.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in public works, and why are they important?

To excel in Public Works, you need a background in civil engineering, construction management, or a related field, often supported by relevant degrees or certifications. Familiarity with project management software, GIS systems, and regulatory compliance tools is typically required. Strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help professionals effectively manage teams and coordinate with stakeholders. These capabilities are crucial for delivering safe, efficient, and sustainable public infrastructure projects that serve the community.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in public works, and how can applicants prepare for them?

Professionals in Public Works often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple departments, managing large-scale infrastructure projects, and responding to public concerns or emergencies. Applicants should be prepared for dynamic workdays that may involve both office-based planning and on-site inspections. Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills are essential, as is the ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities and regulations. Gaining familiarity with municipal processes and developing a collaborative mindset will help you succeed in this field.

What is a public works job?

Public works jobs refer to positions involved in the planning, construction, maintenance, and management of public infrastructure and facilities, such as roads, bridges, water treatment plants, parks, and public buildings. Employees in public works may work for local, state, or federal government agencies, and their roles can include engineering, maintenance, project management, and administration. These jobs are essential for ensuring that communities have safe, reliable, and efficient public services and infrastructure.

What is the difference between Public Works vs Civil Engineer?

AspectPublic WorksCivil Engineer
CredentialsVaries; often includes civil engineering degrees, certifications like PEBachelor's degree in civil engineering, PE license often required
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, construction sites, urban planningDesign offices, construction sites, project management
Employer & IndustryMunicipal, state, federal government agenciesEngineering firms, construction companies, government agencies
Common Search/ComparisonPublic Works vs Civil Engineer

Public Works professionals focus on managing and maintaining infrastructure projects for government agencies, including roads, bridges, and public facilities. Civil Engineers design, plan, and oversee these projects, often working within the private sector or consulting firms. While both roles require civil engineering knowledge, Public Works roles emphasize project management and public sector operations, whereas Civil Engineers focus on technical design and engineering solutions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Public Works jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Public Works jobs in Iowa are:
What job categories do people searching Public Works jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Public Works jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Public Works jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Public Works job openings:
Public Works jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Works job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,357 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

Seasonal Fulltime Public Works Worker

City of Marion, Iowa

Marion, IA

$16.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Job Title:Seasonal Fulltime Public Works Worker

Civil Service:No

Department: Public Works

Bargaining Unit:Non-Bargaining

Reports to Position:Operations and Street Manager

Location:Public Works Building

Overtime Status:Hourly

FLSA Status:Non-Exempt



JOB SUMMARY

Under limited supervision, the Seasonal Fulltime Public Works Worker, performs a variety of skilled and advanced skilled duties including the safe and efficient operation of assigned equipment. Direction and review are received from supervisory personnel in the Public Works Divisions.


ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES/WORK PERFORMED

  • Patch holes in streets with blacktop or concrete.
  • Assist the crack sealing crew within Streets division.
  • Performs right of way landscaping.
  • Snow removal as necessary.
  • Assist with the installation, maintenance and repair of manholes, catch basins, storm and sanitary sewer mains.
  • Assist in painting street markings, fabricating, and installation of traffic control devices; and repairing traffic control marking fixtures.
  • Assist in Solid Waste Operations.
  • Drive vehicles and work tools to work locations.
  • Wear and properly use safety equipment including personal protective equipment.
  • Perform all work duties and activities in accordance with City policies, procedures, and safety practices.
  • Perform other related work and duties as assigned.


REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

  • Knowledge of the operation and repair of equipment used by the Public Works Department.
  • Knowledge of occupational hazards, confined space regulations, city safety policies and the necessary safety precautions to assure the safety of all employees.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with fellow employees, other departments, contractors, and the general public.
  • Ability to quickly learn and put to use new skills and knowledge brought about by rapidly changing information and/or technology.
  • Ability to work cooperatively and to maintain effective working relationships to accomplish job responsibilities.


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & PHYSICAL ABILITIES

  • Physical ability to work at heights up to 40 feet desirable.
  • Ability to perform construction within the City of Marion building codes.
  • Physical strengths and agility to operate heavy equipment under adverse weather conditions.
  • Ability to perform strenuous work outdoors for an extended period, under all weather conditions.
  • Ability to perform a variety of physical labor activities as needed including using a variety of hand and power tools, stooping, bending and climbing.
  • Ability to lift 75 pounds at one time and ability for repetitive lifting of up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to shovel snow and occasionally shovel dirt in assisting in digging trenches or excavation.
  • Ability to climb using ladders to perform various duties.
  • Ability to traverse variable terrain conditions not accessible by vehicle including but not limited to steep slopes, unlevel grades, and heavily vegetated areas.
  • Must not pose a direct threat to the health and safety of other individuals in the workplace or citizens encountered during work.


QUALIFICATIONS

  • Experience in the operation and routine maintenance of trucks and related equipment.
  • Valid Iowa Operator's License.
  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.


WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Work outdoors and may be exposed to adverse weather conditions.
  • Scheduled hours may change based on staffing needs and workload.


REQUIRED BACKGROUND CHECKS

  • Criminal History Check
  • Sex Offender Registry Check
  • Pre-Employment Physical
  • Drug Screening
  • Driving Records Check


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