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Associate Automation Engineer Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

CAD Designer

Ames, IA · On-site

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

Associate's degree in Industrial Design, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology ... Knowledge and use of iLogic and other automation features of Autodesk Inventor * Experience with ...

CAD Designer

Ames, IA · Hybrid

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

Associate's degree in Industrial Design, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology ... Knowledge and use of iLogic and other automation features of Autodesk Inventor * Experience with ...

CAD Designer

Ames, IA · On-site

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

Associate's degree in Industrial Design, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology ... Knowledge and use of iLogic and other automation features of Autodesk Inventor * Experience with ...

Senior Systems Administrator

Ames, IA · On-site

$95K - $105K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or equivalent practical ... An associate's position within the salary range will be based on several factors, including, but ...

Showing results 21-26

Associate Automation Engineer information

See Ames, IA salary details

$19

$28

$33

How much do associate automation engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate automation engineer in Ames, IA is $28.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.14 and $31.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects can an associate automation engineer expect to work on in their first year?

As an Associate Automation Engineer, you can expect to contribute to a variety of projects focused on improving and automating business processes or manufacturing systems. Typical responsibilities include assisting in the design, development, and testing of automated systems, collaborating with senior engineers, and troubleshooting automation equipment. You'll often work closely with cross-functional teams such as production, quality assurance, and IT to support the deployment and maintenance of automation solutions. This hands-on experience provides a strong foundation for understanding automation workflows and prepares you for more complex projects as you gain experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate automation engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Automation Engineer, a strong understanding of programming languages (such as Python, Java, or C#), automation frameworks, and a relevant engineering degree are essential. Familiarity with tools like Selenium, Jenkins, and version control systems, as well as knowledge of CI/CD pipelines, is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help individuals excel in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing reliable automated solutions, ensuring software quality, and collaborating efficiently within engineering teams.

What is an associate automation engineer?

An Associate Automation Engineer is an entry-level professional who helps design, develop, test, and maintain automated systems or processes within an organization. They typically work under the guidance of senior engineers to implement automation solutions that improve efficiency and reduce manual work. Their responsibilities may include writing scripts, maintaining automation tools, troubleshooting issues, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to optimize workflows. This role is common in industries such as manufacturing, software development, and IT.

What cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Associate Automation Engineer jobs?

Cities near Ames, IA with the most Associate Automation Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Automation Engineer job openings in Ames, IA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,979 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


WesTech Engineering rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 447 rated engineering


Job description

Our mission at WesTech is to help communities thrive by delivering high-quality water solutions with superior service - safely and sustainably. To achieve this mission, we recruit great people to be part of our collegial and collaborative teams in engineering, design, project management, field service, plant operations, professional services and more.
As one of the leading operating brands of Swire Water, our values of integrity, humility, endeavor, excellence and continuity make this an outstanding working environment. Our continuing success creates attractive opportunities for purpose-driven professionals to develop new skills, support vital industries, and grow their careers.
Summary
WesTech is in search of a CAD Designer to participate in automated drafting activities for the purpose of laying out and preparing structural, mechanical & engineering drawings for new or existing water, wastewater & industrial equipment, and systems.
Some of the work you will do:
  • Draws structural, mechanical and engineering details of equipment, structures, and more using Autodesk Inventor and Autodesk Vault Professional.
  • Utilizes engineering handbook, design manuals, other sources such as part catalogs to find additional data
  • Work as a member of a design team
  • Interprets contract drawings & specifications to produce accurate drawings
  • Maintains sets of drawings and drawing changes
  • Prepares a variety of detail drawings that are clear & complete the first time
  • Creates detail drawings from sketches or layouts
  • Changes design to meet required specifications
  • Works from verbal instructions and sketches
  • Be aware of budget and schedule constraints on all work. Make every effort to complete assignment on time and on schedule
  • Visually compare design of components or other equipment, with drawing of parts; matching coordinating points for accuracy of fit
  • Other duties as assigned or requested

Here are the skills that you need:
  • Associate's degree in Industrial Design, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Mechanical Engineering or equivalent
  • Knowledge of the function and operation of Autodesk Inventor or other 3D CAD software
  • Knowledge of design concepts, planning, modeling techniques, standard plans and specifications, and engineering and drafting practices
  • Ability to prepare layouts, and drawings neatly, accurately, and legibly
  • Ability to make accurate drawings to scale from field notes, design drawings, sketches, and verbal instructions
  • Ability to make mathematical calculations related to the work
  • Ability to maintain records and drawings relative to the work
  • Ability to communicate effectively

Here are the skills and qualifications that will set you apart:
  • Education: Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Design, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Mechanical Engineering or equivalent
  • six or more years of related experience
  • Complex CAD model management
  • CAD library management
  • Ability to teach and mentor others
  • Knowledge of the function and operation of AutoCAD, and Inventor, AND CREO
  • Experience working in Team environment
  • Structural Detailing and GDT experience
  • Knowledge of steel fabrication
  • Familiarity with AISC steel manual
  • Familiarity with detailing of piping, fittings, valves, instruments
  • Knowledge and use of iLogic and other automation features of Autodesk Inventor
  • Experience with Autodesk Vault

Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able to work at desk computer/phone system.
  • Some lifting may be involved, (50 lbs), specifically when in the warehouse area(s)
  • May be required to be clean-shaven for proper respiratory equipment
  • When at job sites will be required to inspect equipment. This may involve:

    • Bending/stooping/walking on ladders, walkways, catwalks, (may involve heights)
    • Exposure to elements; cold, heat, wet, and/or dark. May be in a safety harness
    • When in fabrication shop, may involve utilizing hands in and around mechanical parts

Benefits and perks we offer:
  • Competitive salary and performance-based annual bonuses
  • Dollar for dollar 401K match of 6%
  • Flexible work hours, hybrid schedules with remote work options
  • Comprehensive health and wellness benefits package
  • Company HSA contribution, Paid Parental Leave, Employee Assistance Program
  • Company-paid Life Insurance, Accidental Death and Dismemberment, and Long-term Disability
  • PTO plan and Paid Holidays
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Company celebrations, summer parties, volunteer opportunities, games, prize drawings, and more!

WesTech considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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