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Structural Engineer Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

... engineering principles within your discipline (electrical, structural, or mechanical). This role ... You will assist with project implementation, field support, and turnover activities; support vendor ...

Senior Bridge Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

Minimum of 10+ years' structural/bridge engineering design experience. * Strong all-around ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

Senior Bridge Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

Minimum of 10+ years' structural/bridge engineering design experience. * Strong all-around ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

Senior Bridge Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

Minimum of 10+ years' structural/bridge engineering design experience. * Strong all-around ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

... the Structural Fabrication Sales Manager and President of Owen Industries. * To assist Owen ... The engineering design and support for structural fabrication projects. * To develop a shop loading ...

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... Assist with three week look-aheads and developing submittal logs * Responsible for managing a wide ... Principles and practices of construction, civil or structural engineering and project design

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Structural Engineer Assistant information

What are Structural Engineer Assistants?

Structural Engineer Assistants support structural engineers in designing, analyzing, and inspecting buildings, bridges, and other structures. Their responsibilities typically include preparing technical drawings, conducting site visits, assisting with calculations, and ensuring compliance with safety standards. They often work alongside engineers to gather data, create reports, and help resolve engineering problems, making them an essential part of any construction or civil engineering team.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Structural Engineer Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Structural Engineer Assistant, you need a background in civil or structural engineering, strong mathematical skills, and familiarity with engineering principles, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, and structural analysis software, along with knowledge of building codes, is typically required. Effective communication, attention to detail, and teamwork are essential soft skills for collaborating with engineers and ensuring project accuracy. These abilities are crucial for supporting efficient project design, compliance, and successful execution within engineering teams.

What are some typical challenges faced by a Structural Engineer Assistant when collaborating with senior engineers and architects?

As a Structural Engineer Assistant, one of the main challenges is effectively communicating technical information to both senior engineers and architects, who may have different priorities and perspectives. You may also need to balance multiple projects at once, ensuring that your work meets strict deadlines and complies with industry standards. Additionally, adapting to rapidly changing project requirements and learning to use specialized software under supervision are common aspects of the role. Building strong teamwork and organizational skills will help you overcome these challenges and contribute effectively to the design and analysis process.

What is the difference between Structural Engineer Assistant vs Civil Engineer?

AspectStructural Engineer AssistantCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's in Civil or Structural Engineering, internshipsBachelor's or higher in Civil Engineering, PE license often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, construction sites, engineering firmsConstruction sites, design offices, urban planning agencies
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, construction companies, government agenciesConstruction, infrastructure, transportation, urban development

The Structural Engineer Assistant typically supports structural design and analysis under supervision, focusing on specific projects. Civil Engineers have broader responsibilities, including planning, design, and overseeing infrastructure projects. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, Civil Engineers often hold professional licensure and handle more complex tasks across various engineering disciplines.

What are the most commonly searched types of Structural Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Structural Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Structural Engineer Assistant jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Structural Engineer Assistant job openings:
Project Manager Structural Engineering (Bridges)

Project Manager Structural Engineering (Bridges)

MSA Professional Services, Inc.

Ankeny, IA

$88K - $142K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

MSA Professional Services is seeking a Project Manager – Structural Engineering to lead bridge and transportation structure projects for state and local clients in Iowa.

In this role, you will guide projects from concept through completion, managing scope, schedules, budgets, and technical delivery while collaborating with clients, agencies, contractors, and multidisciplinary teams. You’ll play a key role in developing practical and innovative structural solutions while mentoring engineers and contributing to the continued growth of MSA’s transportation practice.

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


Project Management & Technical Leadership

  • Lead bridge projects from start to finish, managing scope, schedules, budgets, and project delivery for state and local clients
  • Develop structural design solutions including calculations, plans, and specifications for bridge replacements, rehabilitations, and other transportation-related structures
  • Coordinate multidisciplinary project teams to deliver high-quality and constructible solutions
  • Monitor project performance and proactively address technical or scheduling challenges

Structural Design & Field Investigations

  • Conduct field investigations and evaluate structural conditions for existing bridges and transportation structures
  • Develop practical, cost-effective repair and rehabilitation strategies
  • Provide technical oversight and QA/QC review of structural deliverables
  • Support project planning, permitting, and coordination efforts throughout design and construction phases

Client & Stakeholder Engagement

  • Collaborate and communicate with clients, agencies, stakeholders, contractors, and the public to move projects forward successfully
  • Coordinate with Departments of Transportation and local agencies throughout project delivery
  • Build and maintain strong client relationships through responsive communication and technical expertise

Mentorship & Business Development

  • Mentor and guide junior engineers, helping develop the next generation of bridge design professionals
  • Support business development efforts and assist with project pursuits and proposal development
  • Contribute to the growth of MSA’s bridge and transportation practice through industry engagement and relationship building

Education

  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering required
  • Structural emphasis preferred

Experience

  • 5+ years of bridge design experience required
  • Previous project management experience preferred
  • Experience coordinating with Departments of Transportation preferred

Licensure

  • Professional Engineer (PE) license required
  • Structural Engineer (SE) license preferred

Skills

  • Proficiency with AutoCAD and/or MicroStation
  • Strong understanding of bridge and transportation structure design principles
  • Exceptional verbal and written communication skills
  • Strong leadership, collaboration, and mentoring abilities
  • Previous client relationship and industry engagement experience preferred
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a consulting environment
Why MSA
  • 100% employeeowned firm with 100+ years of community impact
  • Collaborative culture with in-house experts for all disciplines across the firm
  • Flexible worklife 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: $88,000 –$142,000 (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.