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Assistant Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Technical Assistant

Creston, IA · On-site

$38K - $45K/yr

Investigate and maintain engineering change requests. * Assist engineering and quality with investigations. * Assist with pattern documentation photos. * Heat treat load reviews. * Prepare and submit ...

Assistant Plant Engineer

Denison, IA · On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

Assistant Plant Engineer * Location : Denison, Iowa * Duration : Full Time / Permanent * Salary up to $115,000 - $140,000 About the Opportunity * We are recruiting for an Assistant Plant Engineer to ...

Prepare engineering plans, specifications, and cost estimates * Assist with project bidding and contractor coordination * Provide construction administration and construction observation services

Mechanical Engineer

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

KCL Engineering Your Best Career Move Shape the Future with KCL as our next Senior Mechanical ... Development Assist in marketing efforts and proactively pursue projects with new and existing ...

Electrical Engineer

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

At KCL Engineering, we don't just design systems - we create an environment where our employees ... Essential Duties Client Engagement / Business Development Assist in marketing efforts and ...

AI Test Automation Engineer

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

Build tools that assist with test planning, test execution, reporting, and diagnostics * Develop scripts, utilities, dashboards, and integrations that automate repetitive engineering tasks * Leverage ...

Project Engineer

Mount Pleasant, IA · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

The Project Engineer will also assist the Project Manager to ensure the Five Point Planning Process is implemented and followed. We value our people. We work safely. We provide quality and commitment.

Project Engineer

Mount Pleasant, IA · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

The Project Engineer will also assist the Project Manager to ensure the Five Point Planning Process is implemented and followed. We value our people. We work safely. We provide quality and commitment.

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Assistant Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$31K

$83.4K

$126.3K

How much do assistant engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant engineer in Iowa is $83,364.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,200.00 and $98,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineering jobs pay $500,000?

Senior engineering roles such as petroleum engineers, aerospace engineers, and engineering managers can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with experience, bonuses, and stock options. High-paying positions often require advanced degrees, specialized skills, and leadership responsibilities in industries like oil and gas, aerospace, or technology.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Engineer, you need a solid grounding in engineering principles, analytical thinking, and a relevant bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with technical tools such as CAD software, project management systems, and industry-specific standards or certifications (like EIT or FE) is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help you collaborate on complex projects and interact with stakeholders. These skills and qualifications are essential for delivering accurate technical support, ensuring project efficiency, and contributing to successful engineering outcomes.

How does an Assistant Engineer typically collaborate with senior engineers and other team members on projects?

Assistant Engineers work closely with senior engineers, designers, and other technical staff by supporting project planning, conducting site visits, and preparing technical documentation. They often assist in problem-solving sessions and help implement design solutions under supervision. Regular communication and teamwork are essential, as Assistant Engineers frequently coordinate tasks, share updates, and seek feedback to ensure project objectives are met efficiently. This collaborative environment provides valuable learning opportunities and helps build a strong foundation for career advancement.

What Is an Assistant Engineer?

An assistant engineer works alongside a senior engineer throughout a project. The job is often used to gain work experience by recent college graduates at the beginning of their career. Your duties vary, depending on the type of engineering and industry you work in, but may include managing equipment, performing inspections, reviewing blueprints, and coordinating among departments. Typical qualifications for an assistant engineer position include at least an associate or bachelor’s degree in an engineering field, strong communication skills, and the ability to carefully follow directions.

What does an assistant engineer do?

An assistant engineer supports senior engineers by performing technical tasks such as designing, testing, and maintaining systems or equipment. They often handle documentation, data analysis, and troubleshooting, and typically need relevant technical skills and certifications to perform their duties effectively.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as petroleum, software, aerospace, and data engineering often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and advanced certifications. High-paying roles typically require leadership responsibilities, advanced technical expertise, and work in high-demand industries or companies.

How much is the salary of an assistant engineer?

The salary of an assistant engineer typically ranges from $50,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages.

What is the difference between Assistant Engineer vs Junior Engineer?

AspectAssistant EngineerJunior Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field, often with some certificationsBachelor's degree in engineering, entry-level certification may be preferred
Work EnvironmentSupports senior engineers, involved in project planning and executionPerforms basic engineering tasks, supervised by senior staff
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in construction, manufacturing, civil, and mechanical sectorsUsed interchangeably in similar industries, often as entry-level role

Assistant Engineers typically have more responsibilities in supporting project management and planning, while Junior Engineers focus on executing specific technical tasks under supervision. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but Assistant Engineers often have additional certifications or experience. The roles are used across various engineering sectors and serve as stepping stones for career advancement.

What are Assistant Engineers?

Assistant Engineers are entry-level professionals who support senior engineers in the planning, design, development, and maintenance of projects across various engineering fields such as civil, mechanical, electrical, or software. Their responsibilities often include assisting with technical tasks, preparing reports, conducting research, and ensuring compliance with project specifications and safety standards. Assistant Engineers gain practical experience and skills under the supervision of more experienced engineers, which helps them advance in their engineering careers.
What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Assistant Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Assistant Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Assistant Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Engineer jobs in IA? For Assistant Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Assistant Engineer job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,364 per year, or $40.1 per hour.

Assistant Plant Engineer

Transparent Search Group

Denison, IA

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Assistant Plant Engineer – 1st shift

Location: Denison, Iowa

Salary: $115K – 140K plus bonus

Job Summary of the Assistant Plant Engineer: As the Assistant Plant Engineer, reporting to the Plant Engineer, you’ll take charge of managing the maintenance and engineering operations within the plant, ensuring the building and equipment remain in top condition. Your efforts will minimize mechanical downtime and keep production lines running at peak efficiency.

Job Duties & Responsibilities of the Assistant Plant Engineer:

  • Responsible for capital project development and post-approval management, ensuring projects are delivered on time, on budget, and with minimal disruption to plant operations.
  • Collaborate closely with the Plant Engineer, to manage project scheduling and execution, ensuring all projects meet safety, food safety, and environmental standards.
  • Lead the Maintenance Department in developing and implementing cutting-edge systems aligned with High-Performing Manufacturing Organizations, including Preventive/Predictive Maintenance, Total Productive Maintenance (TPM), and more.
  • Optimize resource scheduling to ensure maximum work output while minimizing downtime, reducing costs, and boosting plant capacity to decrease the unscheduled downtime and increase plant efficiency.
  • Lead the maintenance team by delegating tasks, enforcing policies, and ensuring clear work responsibilities are assigned.
  • Act as the champion of plant safety to drive and enforce safety standards through training, procedure implementation, and continuous monitoring.
  • Work with the Plant Engineer to develop and maintain Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to track and report maintenance performance, including supplier effectiveness, equipment reliability, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
  • Lead a positive employee experience through leadership by way of employee development and coaching.

Education & Experience Requirements of the Assistant Plant Engineer:

  • Bachelor's Degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Engineering or related field and 5+ years of related experience in a manufacturing environment; or an equivalent combination of education and experience, required.
  • 2+ years' experience in a position of leadership including team development and management, required.
  • PLC and ammonia refrigeration experience is a must have.
  • Food manufacturing background required, meat or kill floor/harvest floor experience a plus.
  • Possess thorough knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and CMMS systems.
  • Possess advanced technical skills in the mechanical and/or electrical fields (e.g. PLCs, instrumentation, mechanical systems, etc).
  • Must be able to lead resource planning and management efforts in a large manufacturing environment.
  • Thorough knowledge of maintenance systems, work order process, preventive/predictive maintenance, TPM, etc.
  • Ability to use exposure monitoring equipment, interpret and communicate results.
  • Capable of communicating and expressing ideas clearly and concisely, in both written and oral formats.
  • Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong interpersonal, technical and presentation skills required.
  • May be required to work long hours and weekends.