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Utility Planner Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Senior Internal Auditor

Keokuk, IA · On-site

$73K - $91K/yr

Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp. (AQN), parent company of Liberty, is a diversified international ... Performs financial, operational and compliance related audit engagements including planning ...

The focus is feasibility site planning; code, utilities, grading, and coordination; not isolated concept work. You will be involved early, help shape what is feasible, and stay engaged as projects ...

Showing results 41-60

Utility Planner information

See Iowa salary details

$31K

$65.4K

$106.1K

How much do utility planner jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for utility planner in Iowa is $65,364.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,700.00 and $76,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a utility planner?

A Utility Planner is responsible for coordinating the planning, design, and maintenance of utility infrastructure, such as electrical, water, gas, or telecommunications systems. They assess utility needs, create work plans, ensure compliance with regulations, and collaborate with engineers, contractors, and government agencies. Utility Planners also analyze maps, permits, and project specifications to optimize resource allocation and minimize service disruptions. Their role is essential in maintaining and improving utility networks for residential, commercial, and industrial areas.

What are the typical challenges a utility planner faces in this role?

As a Utility Planner, you may encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple departments, balancing competing project timelines, and ensuring compliance with evolving regulations. Managing unexpected field conditions or conflicting infrastructure data can also require quick problem-solving and adaptability. The role often involves liaising with engineers, construction teams, and local authorities to align plans with actual site conditions and project goals. Successfully handling these challenges is key to ensuring safe, cost-effective, and timely utility service delivery.

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

To thrive as a Utility Planner, you need strong analytical abilities, knowledge of utility systems, and a background in engineering, urban planning, or a related field. Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software, and understanding of regulatory codes or utility mapping is frequently required. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and organizational skills help coordinate effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders. These competencies ensure precise utility planning, regulatory compliance, and smooth project execution.

How to become a utility planner?

To become a utility planner, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in engineering, urban planning, or a related field. Gaining experience in utility operations, project management, or infrastructure design, along with developing skills in GIS software and understanding regulatory requirements, is also important. Professional certifications or licenses can enhance job prospects in this field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Utility Planner jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Utility Planner jobs in Iowa are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Utility Planner job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 78% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,364 per year, or $31.4 per hour.

Senior Utilities Reliability Engineer (Remote)

Smithfield Foods

Mason City, IA • Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

If you are currently employed at Smithfield, please log into Workday and submit your application through the Jobs Hub.If you are currently employed at Smithfield, please log into Workday and submit your application through the Jobs Hub.

Have a seat at our table. When you join Smithfield, you become part of something special - a company that's sustainably feeding people around the world, producing good food the right way with respect for our people, animals, communities and planet. With opportunities across locations and functions, a culture grounded in our Core Four values - gratitude, communication, respect and accountability - and a strong commitment to learning, collaboration, and innovation, Smithfield offers challenging and rewarding careers where you can grow, contribute and make a real impact. Apply Now!

THE VALUE YOU'LL BRING:

The position summary states the general nature and purpose of the job. Overall accountabilities are defined in this section.

This is a remote position with geographic requirements. To effectively support business operations, candidates must reside within 60 miles of a designated company location and be able to travel to assigned facilities as needed. Relocation may be required for candidates who do not currently meet this requirement.

Ready to Make an Impact at Smithfield Foods?

Are you a creative, self-driven engineering professional who thrives in fast-paced environments? Do you enjoy cultivating new ideas and collaborating with key stakeholders to drive business growth? If so, Smithfield Foods, a $15 billion global food leader and the world's largest pork processor and hog producer, is the place for you! Join us and be part of a company that's dedicated to innovation, quality, and meeting the needs of customers around the world. For more information, visit www.smithfieldfoods.com and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

As a Sr. Utilities Engineer, you will play a crucial role in optimizing and managing utility systems across our facilities. Your focus will be on industrial refrigeration, boiler, and compressed air systems-ensuring their design, development, operation, and optimization. You'll have the opportunity to troubleshoot and improve existing systems, implement new projects, and provide valuable guidance on regulatory matters.

This is your chance to make a direct impact on the success of our manufacturing processes, ensuring that our systems are efficient, safe, and compliant, all while helping us deliver top-quality products from Smithfield, Eckrich, Nathan's Famous, and other trusted brands to consumers around the world.

WHAT YOU'LL DO:

The below statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. May perform other duties as assigned.

  • Support & Collaboration: You'll support all US Fresh and Packaged Meat Facilities as required. Work directly with facilities teams and project engineering on developing Capital Infrastructure Plans. Engage professional refrigeration engineering resources during the design and development of projects. Assist facilities and PSM Management Team in compliance-related issues as requested.

  • Design & Implementation: Assist in developing designs including selecting equipment, obtaining quotes, and scheduling work as requested. Develop and assist in the implementation of resolutions to issues related to facility refrigeration systems. Implement new systems and standardize equipment requirements.

  • Planning & Budgeting: Assist with the planning and budgeting process for various utilities engineering improvement projects, with the goal of meeting project expectations and time requirements. Optimize utility systems based on facility operating requirements.

  • Research, Analysis & Continuous Improvement: Research and assist in testing new technology. Assess and understand complex operations and systems to support Operations management. Identify and correct deficiencies within existing systems by performing load, charge, and relief calculations. Leads multiple efforts in different fields, ensuring adherence to proper protocols and practices.

WHAT WE'RE SEEKING:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.

  • Bachelor's Degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Engineering or related field and 5+ years of related experience in operations, maintenance and optimization of Ammonia Refrigeration systems, or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.

  • RETA CIRO (Certified Industrial Refrigeration Operator) certification, International Institute of Ammonia Refrigeration. ANSI/IIAR2 certification, Garden City Program Operator II certification, or equivalent certification from another nationally recognized ammonia training program; required.

  • Possess a deep theoretical understanding of industrial refrigeration systems and can apply that knowledge to the roles and responsibilities of the position.

  • Strong reading, math, writing, analytical skill required.

  • Perform assigned tasks efficiently with minimum supervision.

  • Energized by collaboration through travel to other locations. (50% of the time).

OTHER SKILLS THAT MAKE YOU STAND OUT:
  • Electrical experience and troubleshooting in low and high voltage circuits, motors, and controls.

  • Waste water operations experience is preferred.

  • Ability to work well with others in fast paced, dynamic environment.

  • Ability to be respectful, approachable and team oriented while building strong working relationships and a positive work environment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The physical demands described here are representative of those an employee should possess to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Office and plant setting. The plant environment will include wet or humid conditions (non-weather related), extreme cold and heat (non-weather related), working near moving mechanical parts, exposure to fumes or airborne particles, and chemicals.

  • Noise level in the work environment is usually moderate but can be loud when in the production area.

  • Occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

  • Specific vision includes close vision, distance vision, and ability to adjust focus.

  • Must be able to work at elevated heights.

  • Frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to handle or feel; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl and talk or hear.

IndSPR-Corp

Relocation Package Available Yes

EEO Information

Smithfield is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, protected veterans status, status as a disabled individual or any other protected group status or non-job characteristic as directed by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment selection process, please call us at 757-357-1595.

Check out this video to learn more about this role!