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Structural Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Provides forensic consulting services requiring civil/structural engineering expertise for insurance, legal, industrial, and other clients. Assesses and determines the cause and origin of structural ...

Provides forensic consulting services requiring civil/structural engineering expertise for insurance, legal, industrial, and other clients. Assesses and determines the cause and origin of structural ...

Structural Revit Designer

Coralville, IA · Hybrid

$100K - $125K/yr

STRUCTURAL ENGINEER (PROJECT ENGINEER / PROJECT MANAGER) Primary Office: Coralville, IA (Onsite) Current Openings: * (2) Structural Project Engineers * (1) Structural Project Manager This position is ...

Structural Revit Designer

Coralville, IA · Hybrid

$100K - $125K/yr

STRUCTURAL ENGINEER (PROJECT ENGINEER / PROJECT MANAGER) Primary Office: Coralville, IA (Onsite) Current Openings: * (2) Structural Project Engineers * (1) Structural Project Manager This position is ...

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Showing results 1-20

Structural Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$47K

$93.4K

$142.8K

How much do structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for structural engineer in Iowa is $93,363.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,100.00 and $106,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced senior structural engineers working in specialized industries or on large-scale projects can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and profit sharing. Such compensation typically requires extensive expertise, advanced certifications, and leadership roles in major infrastructure or construction firms.

Can you make 300k a year as an engineer?

Structural engineers can earn $300,000 or more annually, typically at senior levels or in specialized roles such as consulting or project management, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or working in high-cost areas. Achieving this income often requires a combination of expertise, leadership skills, and a strong professional reputation. Entry-level or mid-career salaries are generally lower, but top earners in the field can reach or exceed this threshold.

What is the difference between Structural Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectStructural EngineerCivil Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in structural or civil engineering, PE licenseRequires a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, PE license
Work EnvironmentFocuses on designing and analyzing building structures, often in office and construction sitesWorks on infrastructure projects like roads, bridges, and water systems, in offices and field sites
Industry UsageSpecialized within construction, architecture, and structural design firmsBroader industry scope including transportation, environmental, and urban planning

Structural engineers primarily focus on designing and analyzing building frameworks to ensure safety and stability, while civil engineers work on a wider range of infrastructure projects. Both roles require similar credentials and often collaborate, but their core responsibilities and project types differ.

What are some common challenges Structural Engineers face when working on multidisciplinary project teams?

Structural Engineers often collaborate with architects, mechanical, and electrical engineers to deliver integrated building designs. One common challenge is balancing aesthetic or functional requirements from architects with structural safety and code compliance. Effective communication and coordination are essential to resolve conflicts, manage project timelines, and ensure that structural solutions align with the broader vision of the project. Structural Engineers should be proactive in attending coordination meetings and using collaborative design tools to streamline teamwork.

What are structural engineers?

Structural engineers are specialized professionals who design, analyze, and ensure the safety of structures such as buildings, bridges, and tunnels. They work to make sure these structures can withstand various forces, such as gravity, wind, and earthquakes, while remaining safe and functional. Structural engineers use mathematics, physics, and material science to select appropriate construction materials and methods. Their expertise is essential in the planning and construction phases, as well as in inspecting existing structures for safety and compliance.

What kind of work do structural engineers do?

Structural engineers design, analyze, and oversee the construction of buildings, bridges, and other structures to ensure they are safe and stable. They use engineering principles, computer-aided design (CAD) tools, and materials knowledge to develop plans, perform stress tests, and collaborate with architects and construction teams throughout the project lifecycle.

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

To thrive as a Structural Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or structural engineering principles, a relevant engineering degree, and often a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Proficiency with structural analysis software such as SAP2000, ETABS, or AutoCAD is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help set top performers apart. These competencies ensure the safety, stability, and efficiency of building projects while facilitating collaboration with architects, contractors, and clients.

What Do Structural Engineers Do?

Structural engineering is a branch of civil engineering that involves the design, construction, and repair of many different types of structures. The job of a structural engineer is to act as a consultant to architects and contractors throughout the construction project, offering expert advice on technical problems. Structural engineers are typically contracted on projects involving sports arenas, bridges, large buildings, or any other weight-bearing structure. On a day-to-day basis, a structural engineer may assist the head architect with initial layout and design of a structure, including plans for maintenance or overall remodels. They calculate loads, such as wind, snow, and earthquake forces, to determine which structural system is safest. Some structural engineers specialize in demolition and are responsible for ensuring projects are carried out safely and without damage to surrounding structures. Others specialize in oil drilling machinery, aircraft and shipbuilding vehicle design, or temporary structure builds.

Can you make $500,000 as a civil engineer?

Structural engineers can potentially earn $500,000 annually, but such high salaries are typically achieved through senior positions, specialized expertise, or working in high-cost areas with significant experience and advanced certifications. Most civil and structural engineers earn lower base salaries, with top earners often supplementing income through consulting or leadership roles.
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 job categories do people searching Structural Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Structural Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Structural Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Structural Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Structural Engineer job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,363 per year, or $44.9 per hour.

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Description



Shive-Hattery is a premier architecture and engineering consulting firm headquartered in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. In total, the firm has 17 offices across the US. Shive-Hattery was founded in 1895 and has earned and maintained a strong reputation for excellence in client focus, quality service and communication. The firm prides itself on its One Firm, full-service offering; placing the best people with their clients, no matter the project location.


Join Shive-Hattery's Iowa City, IA Transportation Team as a Bridge Engineer and advance your career while leading innovative bridge and civil structures projects. In this role, you'll work closely with clients and have the opportunity to contribute to a variety of projects, including:


  • Bridge and box culvert design
  • Lake and dam spillways
  • Retaining walls and tunnels
  • Park structures
  • Water and wastewater treatment plant concrete tanks
  • Riverfront developments


Joe Appel, Structural Engineer SE, PE, LEED AP, shares:


"Working on this major structural and roadway project with the talented multi-discipline Shive-Hattery team, as well as the bridge consultants and Iowa and Illinois DOTs has been rewarding at many levels. Seeing the bridge being built and then used by pedestrians and motorists has been an ongoing example of the impacts that our work can have for the public good and what the addition of aesthetics and landscaping can add to a functional design. In essence, we are linking communities with innovative designs!"



You will find the right balance at Shive-Hattery. A large pool of resources in a 600+ person design firm, with a small firm feel where you build personal connections with colleagues, partners and clients. Flourish as a professional with the freedom to chart your own course and make an impact - and Design What Matters to make the world a better place.


At Shive-Hattery, our learning and teaching culture is built on collaboration. You'll have the opportunity to both learn from and teach your peers, working across disciplines to enhance your skills and grow professionally.



If you have a passion to make clients successful, create thoughtfully designed public improvements and have these educational and professional experiences apply now:



Requirements


  • Design projects as a structural engineer for transportation projects of various sizes. Work with experienced engineers and technicians while coordinating work within multi-discipline teams. The majority of efforts will focus on our long-standing public infrastructure clients who we work with locally and nationally
  • Must be capable of working on multiple projects simultaneously
  • Must be able to drive and have access to an automobile, climb ladders and work off of elevated platforms and open grating, and wear personal protective equipment required for specific clients and sites
  • Additional responsibilities include overseeing shop drawing reviews
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering or a related field
  • Experience: 4+ years in Structural Engineering
  • License/Certification: Professional Engineer license in Iowa or the ability to obtain license within 12 months
  • Experience leading project teams and interfacing with clients
  • Experience with OpenBridge Modeler, OpenRoads Designer, Microstation and other bridge design software is a an advantage Experience with Iowa DOT projects is a plus



Why Shive-Hattery?


Our learning and teaching culture is founded on collaboration. You will learn from and teach other employees while working across disciplines. You will grow your skills and continue your professional growth at Shive-Hattery.

We offer a competitive total compensation package, including industry-leading pay and over thirty-five benefits designed to support your well-being and career development.



Benefit Highlights:


Medical, Dental, Vision - 4 tiers of coverage

Voluntary Life Insurance - Employee, Spouse, and Child

Voluntary Insurance Plans - Accident, Critical Illness, & Hospital Indemnity

FSA - Medical & Dependent Care

8 Paid Holidays + PTO

Paid Parental Leave

401K/Roth 401K with Company Match

Overtime Bonus

Profit Sharing Bonus

First Time License Bonus

Tuition Reimbursement & Licensure/Certification Financial Support

Professional Development Opportunities

Calm Meditation & Stress Relief Subscription

...And Many More!


U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

  • At this time, 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.

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.


Shive-Hattery offers a flexible work environment and supports balancing personal and professional responsibilities. We are 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, or status as a protected veteran.