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Subcontractor Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Nelsonconstruct

Superintendent

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

The Superintendent is responsible for day-to-day jobsite leadership, subcontractor coordination, safety, schedule, quality control, inspections, deliveries, site logistics, field documentation, and ...

Big-D

Project Engineer - Commercial/Religious

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$67K - $86K/yr

Responsibilities include collaborating with subcontractors, assisting with change order development and pricing, communicating with project stakeholders, and preparing meeting agendas and minutes.

Big-D

Project Engineer - Commercial/Religious

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$67K - $86K/yr

Responsibilities include collaborating with subcontractors, assisting with change order development and pricing, communicating with project stakeholders, and preparing meeting agendas and minutes.

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsSubcontractor JobsSubcontractor Jobs in Iowa

Subcontractor information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$19

$39

How much do subcontractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for subcontractor in Iowa is $19.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.44 and $21.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a subcontractor?

Subcontractors are independent workers or companies hired by a primary contractor to perform specific tasks or services as part of a larger project. They typically specialize in certain areas, such as electrical work, plumbing, or carpentry, and are responsible for completing their portion of the job according to the main contract's requirements. Subcontractors operate under a contract with the general contractor rather than directly with the client. They play a critical role in ensuring that projects are completed efficiently and to the required standards.

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

To thrive as a Subcontractor, you generally need expertise in your specific trade, business management acumen, and any required licenses or registrations for your field. Familiarity with project management software, contract management systems, and relevant safety certifications is typically expected. Strong communication, reliability, and problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills for building client trust and managing teams. These skills ensure projects are completed safely, on time, and to client specifications, supporting sustained business success.

What are some common challenges subcontractors face when managing multiple projects simultaneously?

Subcontractors often juggle several projects at once, which can lead to challenges such as coordinating schedules, allocating resources efficiently, and maintaining clear communication with general contractors and other trades. Staying organized and proactively managing timelines is crucial, as delays or misunderstandings can impact project delivery and client satisfaction. Utilizing project management tools and establishing strong relationships with both clients and suppliers can help subcontractors navigate these common obstacles successfully.

What is the difference between Subcontractor vs Contractor?

AspectSubcontractorContractor
CredentialsMay require specialized licenses or certifications depending on tradeTypically holds general contractor license, may also have specialized licenses
Work EnvironmentWorks on specific tasks or trades within a project, often on-siteOversees entire projects, manages subcontractors, and coordinates work
Employer & Industry UsageHired by contractors or clients to perform specific workHired directly by clients or project owners to manage entire projects

In summary, a subcontractor specializes in specific trades or tasks within a project and works under a contractor, while a contractor manages the overall project and may hire subcontractors. Both roles are essential in construction and related industries, but they differ in scope, responsibilities, and licensing requirements.

Do subcontractors make a lot of money?

Subcontractors' earnings vary based on industry, experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Skilled subcontractors with specialized knowledge or certifications can earn higher wages, often working on multiple projects or longer-term contracts. However, income can fluctuate and is typically project-based rather than a fixed salary.

How to find work as a subcontractor?

Subcontractors find work by building relationships with general contractors, joining industry networks, and marketing their skills through online platforms or local trade associations. Having relevant certifications, a strong portfolio, and a good reputation can also help secure contracts in their field.

What are subcontractor jobs?

Subcontractor jobs involve individuals or companies hired by a general contractor to perform specific tasks or services on a construction or project site. These roles often require specialized skills, and subcontractors typically work independently or through a contracting firm, completing parts of a larger project within set deadlines and budgets.
Subcontractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Subcontractor job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,479 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

MEP Construction Manager (PM)

Catapult Solutions Group

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

MEP Construction Manager (Project Manager)
Location: Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Duration: 1 year contract-to-hire
Work Model: On-site
*Per diem included
Job Description
The MEP Construction Manager (PM) is responsible for planning, managing, and delivering all Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing scopes on construction projects. This role oversees budgeting, scheduling, procurement, subcontractor management, quality assurance, and coordination activities across all MEP disciplines. The MEP PM ensures that systems are installed according to design intent, comply with codes, and meet project performance and turnover requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Project Management & Execution
  • Lead all phases of MEP scope-from preconstruction planning through turnover and closeout.
  • Develop and maintain the MEP project schedule, identifying milestones, critical activities, and long-lead equipment.
  • Coordinate closely with design teams, owners, general contractors, and subcontractors to align project deliverables.
  • Oversee MEP procurement: equipment, materials, subcontracting packages, and vendor services.
  • Manage project change orders, scope clarifications, and budget updates.

MEP Coordination
  • Review and approve MEP shop drawings, submittals, BIM models, RFIs, and vendor documentation.
  • Ensure integration of HVAC, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, controls, and low-voltage systems.
  • Resolve design conflicts and field coordination issues in collaboration with MEP Coordinator, Superintendent, and engineering teams.
  • Facilitate clash detection reviews and coordination meetings (BIM, 3D model, or field-based).

Financial Management
  • Develop and track MEP budgets, cost forecasts, buyout strategies, and cash-flow projections.
  • Review and approve subcontractor billing, supplier invoices, and progress payments.
  • Identify cost risks and opportunities; maintain financial controls throughout project life cycle.
  • Manage contract compliance, contractual deliverables, and claims/mitigation as needed.

Quality, Safety, and Compliance
  • Ensure MEP activities comply with project specifications, plans, codes, and industry standards.
  • Support QA/QC processes, inspections, testing requirements, and commissioning activities.
  • Ensure subcontractors adhere to site safety requirements and OSHA regulations.
  • Coordinate MEP inspections with authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs).

Commissioning & Turnover
  • Develop or support the commissioning plan for MEP systems, including functional testing and startup.
  • Track mechanical completion, pre-functional checks, functional testing, and documentation.
  • Work with commissioning agents, engineers, and owners to resolve deficiencies.
  • Support preparation of O&M manuals, as-builts, test reports, and turnover packages.

Leadership & Communication
  • Lead MEP progress meetings and coordinate with the full project team.
  • Manage subcontractor performance, manpower planning, and resource allocation.
  • Provide clear reporting on progress, risks, and impacts to senior leadership and clients.
  • Mentor junior engineers, coordinators, and assistant project managers.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Construction Management, or related engineering field.
    Equivalent field experience in MEP-heavy construction is also acceptable.
  • 5-15+ years of experience managing MEP scopes (HVAC, electrical, plumbing, fire protection).
  • Proven experience delivering commercial, industrial, healthcare, data center, or institutional projects.
  • Strong knowledge of building systems, construction sequencing, and project controls.
  • Proficiency with construction management software (Procore, Autodesk Build, PlanGrid, Bluebeam, MS Project, Primavera P6).
  • Effective communication, negotiation, and leadership skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple subcontractors, complex phasing, and large equipment installations.

Preferred (Nice-to-Have)
  • Experience with commissioning and turnover processes.
  • BIM coordination experience (Navisworks, Revit).
  • OSHA 30 certification or equivalent.
  • PE license or trade license (mechanical/electrical/plumbing) is a plus.

APPLY NOW!
*Connect with your Catapult Recruiter: Kailyn Hartley, directly at kailyn.hartley@catapultsg.com *
*NOT AVAILABLE FOR C2C CONTRACTING*
MEP Scope Management | BIM | Clash Detection | Commissioning & Turnover | Procurement | Buyout | Project Controls | Scheduling | QA/QC | Construction | OSHA

Apply