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Structural Designer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Design projects as a structural engineer for industrial, commercial and education projects of ... Experience and willingness to provide direction to young engineers and designers, along with ...

Sr. Structural Engineer

West Des Moines, IA ยท On-site +1

$110K - $150K/yr

Whether designing new structures, evaluating existing structures, or collaborating with ... Prepare structural calculations, plans, specifications, and technical reports * Perform structural ...

Mold Designer

Cedar Rapids, IA ยท On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Design plastic injection molds and structural foam molds based on OEM-supplied part models and engineering specifications. * Ensure designs meet quality, safety, and manufacturing standards.

Showing results 41-60

Structural Designer information

See Iowa salary details

$19

$39

$61

How much do structural designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for structural designer in Iowa is $39.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.38 and $48.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a structural designer?

Structural designers are professionals who create the plans and specifications for buildings, bridges, and other structures to ensure they are safe, stable, and capable of withstanding various forces. They work closely with architects and engineers to design the framework and select appropriate materials for construction projects. Structural designers use specialized software and their knowledge of engineering principles to analyze loads, stresses, and potential weaknesses, ensuring the integrity of the final structure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a structural designer?

To thrive as a Structural Designer, you need a solid background in civil or structural engineering principles, proficiency in drafting, and typically a relevant degree or diploma. Familiarity with technical tools such as AutoCAD, Revit, and structural analysis software, as well as knowledge of building codes, is essential. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication skills help set top performers apart. These competencies are crucial for producing safe, efficient, and code-compliant designs that meet client and regulatory requirements.

What are some common challenges structural designers face when working on multidisciplinary projects?

Structural designers often collaborate closely with architects, civil engineers, and MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) professionals. A common challenge is coordinating design changes and ensuring that structural solutions align with evolving architectural concepts and system requirements. Effective communication and proficiency with design software are essential for integrating feedback and maintaining project timelines. Adapting to tight deadlines and balancing multiple priorities are also typical aspects of the role, especially when working on large or complex projects.

What is the difference between Structural Designer vs Structural Engineer?

AspectStructural DesignerStructural Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering, often with certification or licensing depending on regionRequires a bachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering and licensure (e.g., PE license)
Work EnvironmentDesign-focused, often working with CAD software, collaborating with engineers and architectsDesign and analysis, overseeing structural integrity, and ensuring code compliance
Industry UsageCommon in architectural firms, design consultancies, and construction planningFound in engineering firms, consulting agencies, and construction companies

While both roles involve structural design, Structural Designers focus more on creating detailed drawings and plans, whereas Structural Engineers perform analysis, calculations, and ensure safety standards are met. The roles often overlap, but engineers typically hold licensure and have broader responsibilities in structural safety and compliance.

What does a structural designer do?

A structural designer develops and analyzes structural systems for buildings and infrastructure, ensuring they are safe, functional, and compliant with codes. They use engineering principles, CAD software, and structural analysis tools to create detailed plans and specifications for construction. Strong knowledge of materials, load calculations, and building codes is essential in this role.

What are popular job titles related to Structural Designer jobs in Iowa?

For Structural Designer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Structural Designer jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Structural Designer jobs in Iowa are:

Infographic showing various Structural Designer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,370 per year, or $39.1 per hour.

Structural Engineer

Shive Hattery Group

Bettendorf, IA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Let's Do great things-Together
At Shive-Hattery, we believe great design starts with great people. We're a full-service architecture and engineering firm with a legacy of collaboration, innovation, and putting people first, our clients and each other. If you're looking for a place where your ideas matter and your growth is supported, you'll feel at home here.
Why This Role Matters
As a Structural Engineer with 5-10 years of experience you'll play a key role in supporting the firm and shaping projects that make a difference-from concept through completion. You'll collaborate with talented teammates, contribute your expertise, and help us deliver thoughtful, high-quality solutions for those we serve.
What You'll Do
  • Design projects as a structural engineer for industrial, commercial and education projects of various sizes with the main focus on industrial projects.
  • Work with experienced engineers and technicians while coordinating work within multi-discipline teams. The majority of efforts will focus on our long-standing Industrial clients who we work with locally and nationally.
  • Lead the structural design portion of projects, make design recommendations and decisions, and oversee the completion and quality of construction drawings, specifications, reports and other project documentation.
  • Establish and manage structural scope, schedule, and budget.
  • Mentor and teach other team members.
  • Lead the structural design of a project from schematic design through construction documents for both single-discipline and multi-discipline projects.
  • Interact with and be a representative of the company with clients and contractors as it relates to on-going projects.
  • Work on multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Manage shop drawing reviews and field data collection.

Requirements
You don't need to check every box to succeed here. If your experience aligns with many of the items below and you're excited about the work we do, we encourage you to apply.
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in engineering from an accredited program
  • Experience: 5 to 10 years of experience in the design and leadership of structural engineering projects.
  • License/Certification: Professional Engineer licensure in Iowa or the ability for immediate licensure in Iowa.
  • Autodesk Revit experience and proficiency in Microsoft Office is required
  • Structural design experience using concrete, steel, and masonry. Wood design would be a plus.
  • Experience and willingness to provide direction to young engineers and designers, along with collaborating with other disciplines.
  • Ability to manage time and workload effectively, which includes planning, organizing, and prioritizing work.
  • Must have good attention to detail.
  • Possess good oral and written communication skills, and comfortable presenting design solutions to Owners.

What will make you stand out
  • Experience using 3D software (Navisworks/Recap), structural engineering design software

Our Commitment to You
Great work happens when you feel secure in your future, confident in your support, and trusted to grow. That's why our benefits support your health, financial stability, and life beyond work - including medical, dental and vision coverage, paid time off and holidays, 401(k) retirement savings, disability protection, wellness incentives, and flexibility. When we succeed, you share in that success. Guided by truth, trust, mentoring, and care, we're committed to helping you build a lasting career.
Who We Are
Shive-Hattery is a privately held architecture and engineering consulting firm with design offices across the United States. Here, you'll work alongside multidisciplinary teams delivering integrated design solutions for clients across industries. You'll contribute to meaningful projects guided by our principle to design what matters and make our world a better place. You're looking to build something great. So are we.
Shive-Hattery is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.
This position is primarily performed in an office or hybrid environment and may require travel to project sites, other Shive-Hattery office locations or to meet with clients. A full clean driver's license is required. The role involves sitting, standing, and working at a computer for extended periods. May also require lifting light to medium weight objects of up to 50 lbs., the wearing of PPE and navigating active construction sitesClimb ladders and work off of elevated platforms and open grating required for specific clients and sites. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role.
U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:
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.
If this role sounds like a fit for your skills and interests, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and help us design what matters to make the world a better place. Interested applicants should submit their cover letter, resume, and portfolio for consideration. If you are unable to submit your portfolio due to size constraints, please include a link to your portfolio in your cover letter.
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.