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Transportation Planner Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

LVC Planner SME

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$66K - $79K/yr

BGI is seeking a highly skilled Live/Virtual/Constructive (LVC) Mission Planner and Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support the 132nd Combat Training Squadron (CTS) and the Distributed Training ...

Transportation Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

We believe transportation is more than movement, it's the foundation of connected, thriving ... We bring together planners, engineers, architects, construction management staff, environmental ...

Transportation Engineer

Des Moines, IA

$75K - $100K/yr

We believe transportation is more than movement, it's the foundation of connected, thriving ... We bring together planners, engineers, architects, construction management staff, environmental ...

... transportation planning, pavement design, and highway safety. Ability to explain AASHTO geometric design standards, Highway Capacity Manual methods, and MUTCD requirements while preparing civil ...

Senior Transportation Engineer

Bettendorf, IA

$98K - $141K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... planning, engineering design, and regulatory processes Advance knowledge with local, state, and federal transportation regulations, environmental, policies, and permitting procedures Strong training ...

Senior Transportation Engineer

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$98K - $141K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... planning, engineering design, and regulatory processes • Advance knowledge with local, state, and federal transportation regulations, environmental, policies, and permitting procedures • Strong ...

The Transportation Analyst is responsible foranalyzing,monitoring, and improving supply chain performance across demand planning, inventory management, transportation, warehousing, customer care, and ...

Transportation

Guthrie Center, IA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... planning - true career growth planning & opportunities -Annual leadership development summits ... As a Transportation Driver, you will be responsible for operating vehicles and ensuring the comfort ...

Leigh & Co. Events is a fast-growing wedding planning company - we are looking for planners. We ... Must have reliable transportation * Must be able to carry and lift 30 lbs.

Leigh & Co. Events is a fast-growing wedding planning company - we are looking for planners. We ... Must have reliable transportation * Must be able to carry and lift 30 lbs.

... transportation and distribution network in North America, and logistics capabilities enabling a ... The Mechanical Maintenance Planner works closely with Operations, Maintenance, Engineering ...

... transportation and distribution network in North America, and logistics capabilities enabling a ... The Mechanical Maintenance Planner works closely with Operations, Maintenance, Engineering ...

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Transportation Planner information

See Iowa salary details

$37.1K

$69.7K

$103.8K

How much do transportation planner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for transportation planner in Iowa is $69,745.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,300.00 and $76,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a transportation planner?

A transportation planner develops plans for a city’s public transit system. As a transportation planner, you work alongside urban planners, engineers, and other professionals to create a comprehensive plan that benefits all users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, and those using powered transportation. Your primary job duties involve analyzing data, assessing the proposed land use area, reviewing local policies, and creating detailed proposals. Most transportation planners work on projects for cities and government agencies.

What does a transportation planner do?

A Transportation Planner is responsible for developing plans and strategies to improve transportation systems within cities, regions, or countries. They analyze data related to traffic, public transit, and urban development to recommend solutions that enhance mobility and safety. Their work often involves collaborating with government agencies, engineers, and the public to create efficient, sustainable, and accessible transportation networks.

How much do transportation planners make in the US?

Transportation planners in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $75,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $50,000 to over $100,000 depending on experience, location, and education. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals or those in senior roles can earn higher salaries, especially in urban areas or with specialized skills such as GIS or traffic modeling.

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

To thrive as a Transportation Planner, you need expertise in urban planning, data analysis, and traffic modeling, often supported by a degree in urban planning, civil engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, transportation modeling tools (such as Synchro or TransCAD), and sometimes certification like AICP is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and stakeholder engagement skills help you effectively collaborate and present complex information. These skills and qualities are vital to designing efficient transportation systems that meet community needs and regulatory requirements.

What is the difference between Transportation Planner vs Traffic Engineer?

AspectTransportation PlannerTraffic Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in urban planning, transportation, or related field; often requires certification in planningBachelor's degree in civil engineering or related; often requires engineering licensure or certification
Work EnvironmentUrban planning agencies, government departments, consulting firmsTransportation departments, engineering firms, government agencies
Industry UsageFocuses on long-term transportation systems, land use, and policy planningFocuses on traffic flow, signal timing, and roadway safety

While both roles work within transportation and often collaborate, Transportation Planners focus on overall system design and policy, whereas Traffic Engineers concentrate on traffic operations and safety. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are some common challenges faced by transportation planners when coordinating with multiple stakeholders on large projects?

Transportation Planners often collaborate with government agencies, engineers, community groups, and private sector partners. One significant challenge is balancing diverse interests and priorities, such as budget constraints, environmental concerns, and community needs. Effective communication and negotiation skills are essential to facilitate consensus and ensure that project goals align with regulatory requirements and public expectations. Staying organized and adaptable helps planners navigate shifting project scopes and timelines.

What are popular job titles related to Transportation Planner jobs in Iowa?

For Transportation Planner jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Transportation Planner job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,745 per year, or $33.5 per hour.

LVC Planner SME

BGI (Ohio)

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$66K - $79K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

BGI is seeking a highly skilled Live/Virtual/Constructive (LVC) Mission Planner and Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support the 132nd Combat Training Squadron (CTS) and the Distributed Training Operations Center (DTOC) at the Des Moines Air National Guard Base in Des Moines, Iowa. Why This Role Matters This role plays a critical part in shaping the future of combat readiness. By designing and executing high-fidelity training scenarios that integrate live, virtual, and constructive elements, you will directly enhance the preparedness of Air National Guard and U.S

Air Force personnel. Your expertise will help bridge the gap between simulation and real-world operations, ensuring tactical effectiveness and mission success across joint and coalition forces. Job Responsibilities Lead all aspects of LVC mission planning and execution for Live-Constructive training events.

Integrate virtual simulators into daily live training opportunities to maximize realism and effectiveness. Oversee LVC mission testing, including Modeling & Simulation (M&S), Network Integration (Net Int), and Operational Tests (Ops Tests). Serve as Event Lead during mission pre-briefs, execution, debriefs, and post-mission documentation.

Support DTOC mission planning cell by: Creating scenarios using Environment Generator software Coordinating with Network Operations Center (NOC), Live Mission Operations Node (LMON), and Live Mission Operations Center-Planning (LMOC-P) personnel for Event Control Center (ECC) setup Troubleshooting software and hardware issues Creating and distributing Mission Planning Cell (MPC) packages in accordance with the Performance Work Statement (PWS) Deliver LVC academic briefings in coordination with the Training Manager. Represent DTOC as an LVC SME in meetings and planning sessions. Advise CTS/DTOC leadership on LVC events, tests, and emerging technologies.

Incorporate Air Force Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (AFTTP 3-1) into daily LVC-centric training events.Education & Experience (choose one) Bachelor's degree in a related field and 10 years of relevant experience; or Master's degree in a related field and 8 years of relevant experience; or High school diploma or equivalent and 14 years of relevant experience. Tactical Experience Experience with LVC software applications (LMOC-P preferred) Familiarity with AFTTP 3-1 and Joint Warfare Publications Experience operating within an active mission planning cell Previously qualified as a mission commander, section lead, or equivalent Ability to create and disseminate Concept of Operations (CONOPS) and planning products in accordance with Air Force and Department of Defense (DoD) standards Prior experience conducting training in a Distributed Mission Operations (DMO) environment Air-to-air fighter aircraft instructor pilot with operational air-to-air experience Must have been current and qualified within the last 3 years or possess current LVC LMOC-P/War Room equivalent experience Must be a U.S. citizen Current or active DoD Secret clearance (maintained throughout employment) Preferred Requirements Current or previous Weapons and Tactics experience Led multi-unit or joint-force exercises in a DMO environment

Optimized LMOC-P, War Room, or similar systems for mission realism. Contributed to updates or application of AFTTP 3-1 and Joint Warfare doctrine. Instructed across multiple fighter platforms or mission sets.

Directed mission planning and post-mission analysis in high-tempo ops. Mentored junior instructors and led evaluation teams in simulation training. Active Top Secret clearance or ability to obtain one.

Physical Requirements Ability to lift and carry boxes of records or equipment (up to 40 lbs) Ability to stoop, bend, crawl, and climb into simulators or aircraft cockpits Must be able to detect environmental cues (e.g., sounds, odors) for troubleshooting Ability to distinguish colors for system diagnosticsEducation & Experience (choose one) Bachelor's degree in a related field and 10 years of relevant experience; or Master's degree in a related field and 8 years of relevant experience; or High school diploma or equivalent and 14 years of relevant experience. Tactical Experience Experience with LVC software applications (LMOC-P preferred) Familiarity with AFTTP 3-1 and Joint Warfare Publications Experience operating within an active mission planning cell Previously qualified as a mission commander, section lead, or equivalent Ability to create and disseminate Concept of Operations (CONOPS) and planning products in accordance with Air Force and Department of Defense (DoD) standards Prior experience conducting training in a Distributed Mission Operations (DMO) environment Air-to-air fighter aircraft instructor pilot with operational air-to-air experience Must have been current and qualified within the last 3 years or possess current LVC LMOC-P/War Room equivalent experience Must be a U.S. citizen Current or active DoD Secret clearance (maintained throughout employment) Preferred Requirements Current or previous Weapons and Tactics experience Led multi-unit or joint-force exercises in a DMO environment

Optimized LMOC-P, War Room, or similar systems for mission realism. Contributed to updates or application of AFTTP 3-1 and Joint Warfare doctrine. Instructed across multiple fighter platforms or mission sets.

Directed mission planning and post-mission analysis in high-tempo ops. Mentored junior instructors and led evaluation teams in simulation training. Active Top Secret clearance or ability to obtain one.

Physical Requirements Ability to lift and carry boxes of records or equipment (up to 40 lbs) Ability to stoop, bend, crawl, and climb into simulators or aircraft cockpits Must be able to detect environmental cues (e.g., sounds, odors) for troubleshooting Ability to distinguish colors for system diagnostics.