Salaries in Ames, IA

1. Technical Project Lead
   Average Salary: $91,915
   This role involves managing technical projects for companies. It requires strong leadership skills and technical knowledge. Companies like ISU and local tech firms offer these positions.
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2. CDL Driver
   Average Salary: $85,792
   Driving a commercial vehicle requires a special license. This job involves transporting goods. Companies like UPS and local logistics firms hire for these roles.
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3. Transportation Engineer
   Average Salary: $84,453
   This role involves designing and improving transportation systems. It requires a strong understanding of engineering principles. Companies like ISU and local government agencies offer these positions.
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4. Registered Nurse
   Average Salary: $70,859
   This role involves providing patient care and medical treatment. It requires strong communication and problem-solving skills. Hospitals and local clinics offer these positions.
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5. Counselor
   Average Salary: $67,564
   This role involves helping individuals with personal or psychological problems. It requires strong listening and communication skills. Schools and local clinics offer these positions.
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6. Automotive Technician
   Average Salary: $66,880
   This role involves repairing and maintaining vehicles. It requires strong mechanical skills and attention to detail. Local auto shops offer these positions.
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7. General Manager
   Average Salary: $59,605
   This role involves overseeing the daily operations of a business. It requires strong leadership and management skills. Local restaurants and retail stores offer these positions.
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8. Licensed Practical Nurse
   Average Salary: $56,447
   This role involves providing basic patient care and medical treatment. It requires strong communication and problem-solving skills. Hospitals and local clinics offer these positions.
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9. Maintenance Technician
   Average Salary: $53,345
   This role involves repairing and maintaining equipment and facilities. It requires strong mechanical skills and attention to detail. Local businesses and government agencies offer these positions.
   Find Maintenance Technician jobs in Ames, IA
   

   
   

10. Retail Sales Associate
    Average Salary: $53,094
    This role involves helping customers find and purchase products. It requires strong communication and customer service skills. Local stores and retail chains offer these positions.
    Find Retail Sales Associate jobs in Ames, IA
    

1. Loader Operator
   Average Salary: $55,545
   This role involves operating heavy machinery to move materials. It requires physical strength and attention to safety. Companies like local construction firms and logistics companies often hire for this role.
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2. Groundskeeper
   Average Salary: $38,016
   Maintaining the grounds of parks, schools, and businesses is key. This job involves landscaping, mowing, and general upkeep. Local government and private landscaping companies offer these positions.
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3. Landscaper
   Average Salary: $36,677
   Creating and maintaining outdoor spaces is the focus. This involves planting, pruning, and designing gardens. Landscaping firms and garden centers are common employers.
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4. Housekeeping
   Average Salary: $32,879
   Ensuring cleanliness in hotels, offices, and homes is essential. This role involves cleaning rooms, changing linens, and restocking supplies. Hospitality and property management companies often hire for this role.
   Find Housekeeping jobs in Ames, IA
   

   
   

5. Server
   Average Salary: $32,746
   Serving food and drinks to customers is the main task. This job requires good communication and teamwork. Restaurants and cafes in the area offer these positions.
   Find Server jobs in Ames, IA
   

   
   

6. Line Cook
   Average Salary: $32,728
   Preparing meals quickly and efficiently is crucial. This role involves following recipes and maintaining kitchen hygiene. Local restaurants and cafes hire for this role.
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7. Kitchen Team Member
   Average Salary: $31,441
   Assisting in food preparation and kitchen tasks is key. This role requires teamwork and attention to detail. Restaurants and cafes often hire for this role.
   Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in Ames, IA
   

   
   

8. Barista
   Average Salary: $30,889
   Making coffee and other beverages is the main task. This role involves customer service and maintaining a clean workspace. Coffee shops and cafes offer these positions.
   Find Barista jobs in Ames, IA
   

   
   

9. Server Assistant
   Average Salary: $30,031
   Supporting servers in their tasks is essential. This role involves setting up tables, clearing dishes, and assisting customers. Restaurants and cafes hire for this role.
   Find Server Assistant jobs in Ames, IA
   

   
   

10. Dishwasher
    Average Salary: $28,143
    Cleaning dishes and kitchen equipment is the main task. This role requires attention to detail and physical stamina. Restaurants and cafes often hire for this role.
    Find Dishwasher jobs in Ames, IA
    

1. Thomson Reuters
   Average Salary: $160,592
   Thomson Reuters is a global information services company. It provides intelligent information for businesses and professionals. The company is known for its strong financial performance and offers competitive salaries.
   

   
   

2. Iowa Department of Transportation
   Average Salary: $73,907
   The Iowa Department of Transportation is a state agency. It manages and maintains the state's transportation system. It provides stable employment and good compensation.
   

   
   

3. State of Iowa
   Average Salary: $69,491
   The State of Iowa offers a variety of jobs in different sectors. It provides a range of benefits and competitive salaries. It is a good place to work for those seeking stability.
   

   
   

4. STORY CONSTRUCTION
   Average Salary: $65,246
   STORY CONSTRUCTION is a leading construction company in Iowa. It specializes in commercial and industrial projects. The company offers good pay and opportunities for career growth.
   

   
   

5. Iowa State University
   Average Salary: $55,565
   Iowa State University is a major research university. It offers a wide range of academic and administrative positions. The university provides a supportive work environment and competitive salaries.
   

   
   

6. Walmart
   Average Salary: $54,983
   Walmart is a global retail giant. It offers many job opportunities in various roles. The company provides benefits and competitive pay for its employees.
   

   
   

7. Bickford Senior Living
   Average Salary: $47,270
   Bickford Senior Living provides senior care services. It offers jobs in healthcare, management, and support roles. The company values its employees and offers good compensation.
   

   
   

8. BioLife Plasma Services
   Average Salary: $45,440
   BioLife Plasma Services collects plasma for medical use. It offers jobs in plasma collection and customer service. The company provides a welcoming work environment and fair pay.
   

   
   

9. ChildServe
   Average Salary: $42,159
   ChildServe is a nonprofit organization. It provides services for children and families. The company offers jobs in social services, education, and administration. It provides good compensation and benefits.
   

   
   

10. AMES COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT
    Average Salary: $41,212
    The Ames Community School District is a public school system. It offers jobs in education, administration, and support services. The district provides a supportive work environment and competitive salaries.
    

The cost of living index in Ames, IA, shows a mix of affordability compared to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in Ames stand at 85, which means they are 15% lower than the national average. This makes housing in Ames a more affordable option for those looking to relocate or start a new job.

Other expenses also reflect a generally favorable comparison. Groceries in Ames are priced at 95, which is 5% lower than the national average. Utilities and transportation costs are both at 95 and 90, respectively, indicating they are slightly below the national average. Healthcare costs, however, are slightly higher, with an index of 105, meaning they are 5% more expensive than the average. Miscellaneous costs in Ames match the national average at 100. Overall, Ames offers a cost of living that is competitive and often more affordable in several key areas.