Construction/Design Engineer, Senior

State of Iowa • Des Moines - 50319 - Polk County, IA

6d

About The Position

The State Construction Project Manager (State Design & Construction Engineer Senior) role is responsible for overseeing capital improvement projects that shape the infrastructure supporting millions of Iowans. This position serves as the State of Iowa's representative throughout every phase of a project's lifecycle, from initial concept through design, construction, and final closeout. The role involves leading complex projects, collaborating with diverse stakeholders, and ensuring taxpayer resources are invested wisely while delivering high-quality facilities. The Iowa Department of Administrative Services (DAS) manages a diverse portfolio of projects, ranging from renovations and infrastructure improvements to major new construction initiatives. This role offers opportunities to collaborate with agency leaders, architects, engineers, contractors, and industry professionals while serving the people of Iowa.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited four year college or university with major course work in architecture, or in civil, mechanical, architectural or a related engineering field, and experience equal to six years of full-time engineering work in the design and construction of buildings, utilities, earthwork, or related facilities and structures; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience substituting the equivalent of one year of full time work experience for each year of the required education to a maximum substitution of four years; OR possession of a valid Professional Engineer license recognized by the Iowa board of Engineering Examiners and four years of the above described professional experience; OR possession of a certificate of registration as a Professional Architect recognized by the Iowa Board of Architectural Examiners and four years of the above described professional experience.

Nice To Haves

• Collaborative leader who combines strong technical construction knowledge with exceptional project management and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.
• Ability to make sound, independent decisions in fast-paced environments.
• Ability to build strong relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to negotiate contracts and resolve challenging project issues.
• Ability to analyze financial impacts and manage project budgets.
• Ability to communicate effectively with technical professionals, agency leadership, and executive stakeholders.
• Ability to balance competing priorities while maintaining exceptional customer service.

Responsibilities

• Lead Capital Improvement Projects: Manage projects from planning and design through construction, commissioning, occupancy, and closeout.
• Develop project scopes by evaluating facility conditions, operational needs, and long-term capital priorities.
• Establish project delivery strategies that align with agency goals, available funding, and procurement requirements.
• Ensure successful delivery while maintaining accountability for scope, budget, schedule, quality, and customer satisfaction.
• Represent the State of Iowa: Serve as the State's advocate throughout the entire project lifecycle.
• Balance cost, quality, schedule, operational needs, maintainability, and long-term value when making project decisions.
• Provide leadership, guidance, and timely communication to agency leadership and project stakeholders.
• Manage Consultants and Construction Teams: Lead procurement and selection of architects, engineers, construction managers, and specialty consultants.
• Oversee consultant performance throughout project delivery.
• Review design documents, coordinate multidisciplinary reviews, and resolve project issues.
• Hold construction managers and contractors accountable for quality, schedule, documentation, and contract compliance.
• Administer Contracts and Project Finances: Manage public procurement processes and construction contracts in accordance with Iowa law and State policies.
• Monitor project budgets and funding throughout each phase of delivery.
• Evaluate change orders, contractor payment applications, and project expenditures to ensure responsible stewardship of public funds.
• Recommend funding decisions and project priorities based on agency needs and available resources.
• Manage Risk and Ensure Compliance: Identify and mitigate project risks related to cost, schedule, quality, safety, and regulatory compliance.
• Coordinate with regulatory agencies and code officials to obtain required approvals.
• Ensure construction activities comply with contract documents, applicable codes, and State requirements.
• Build Strong Partnerships: Serve as the primary liaison between customer agencies, executive leadership, consultants, contractors, and regulatory agencies.
• Facilitate meetings, presentations, and executive briefings.
• Build collaborative relationships while resolving competing priorities and complex project challenges.

Benefits

• Generous Paid Time Off– Vacation that rolls over annually, unlimited sick leave accrual, and nine paid holidays each year.
• Comprehensive Health Benefits– Competitive medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
• Retirement Security– Membership in the IPERS retirement system, plus optional deferred compensation plans.
• Flexible Spending Accounts– Medical and dependent care options to help you save.
• Life Insurance– Employer-paid life insurance coverage.
• Additional Support– Employee Assistance Program, wellness resources, and employee discount programs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior