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Engineering · Iowa

How to Become a Environmental Engineers in Iowa

Environmental Engineers in Iowa earn a median salary of $95,980/year, which is 8% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~5.3%. After taxes and rent, a environmental engineers takes home approximately $4,493/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$96K
Median salary in Iowa
-8%
vs. national average
5.3%
State income tax
220
Employed in Iowa

What a environmental engineers can afford in Iowa

Gross annual salary$95,980
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.3% state tax)$5,905/mo
Median 2BR rent (Iowa)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home23.9% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$95,980/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$4,493/mo

Becoming a environmental engineers in Iowa

1

Meet education requirements

Environmental Engineers positions in Iowa typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Iowa. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many environmental engineers positions in Iowa require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Iowa licensure or certification

Iowa may require specific licensing or professional certification for environmental engineerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Iowa Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Iowa

Iowa employs 220 environmental engineers. The highest concentrations are in Davenport-Moline-Rock Island and Des Moines-West Des Moines.

Environmental Engineers salary by metro area in Iowa

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Davenport-Moline-Rock Island$97K$46.42/hr30
Des Moines-West Des Moines$92K$44.31/hr110

Environmental Engineers salary range in Iowa

10th percentile (entry)
$67K
25th percentile
$80K
Median (50th)
$96K
75th percentile
$111K
90th percentile (senior)
$136K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a environmental engineers make in Iowa?

The median environmental engineers salary in Iowa is $95,980 per year ($46.14/hr). This is 8% below the national median of $104,170. Salaries range from $66,780 to $136,320.

What are the requirements to become a environmental engineers in Iowa?

Environmental Engineers positions in Iowa typically require Bachelor's degree. Iowa may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Iowa licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a environmental engineers afford to live in Iowa?

At the median salary of $95,980, a environmental engineers in Iowa would take home approximately $5,905/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 23.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for environmental engineers in Iowa?

The highest paying metro areas for environmental engineers in Iowa are Davenport-Moline-Rock Island ($96,560), Des Moines-West Des Moines ($92,160). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Iowa have state income tax for environmental engineers?

Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.3%. On a $95,980 salary, this means roughly $5,046/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.