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Associate Electrical Engineer Jobs in Decorah, IA

Associate Electrical Engineer information

See Decorah, IA salary details

$37.5K

$80K

$132K

How much do associate electrical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate electrical engineer in Decorah, IA is $80,005.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,200.00 and $95,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Associate Electrical Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectAssociate Electrical EngineerElectrical Engineer
QualificationsBachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field; some roles may require internshipsBachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering; often requires licensure or certification for advanced roles
Work EnvironmentEntry-level positions in design, testing, or maintenance within engineering firms, manufacturing, or utilitiesDesign, development, testing, and project management in similar industries, often with more responsibility
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in engineering firms, construction, and utilities; often a starting roleUsed across industries for more experienced roles, often requiring additional certifications

The main difference between an Associate Electrical Engineer and an Electrical Engineer lies in experience and responsibility. The Associate role is typically entry-level, focusing on supporting engineering tasks, while the Electrical Engineer usually has more experience and handles complex projects. Both roles require a bachelor's degree, but the Electrical Engineer may need licensure for advanced responsibilities.

What does an Associate Electrical Engineer do?

An Associate Electrical Engineer assists in designing, developing, and testing electrical systems and components, often working under the supervision of senior engineers. Their responsibilities may include creating technical drawings, performing calculations, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring projects meet safety standards and regulations. They often work on projects related to power generation, electronics, telecommunications, or building electrical systems. This entry-level role is ideal for recent graduates or those with limited experience, providing a foundation for career advancement in electrical engineering.

What are some common projects and responsibilities for an Associate Electrical Engineer during the first year on the job?

As an Associate Electrical Engineer, you can expect to work on tasks such as drafting electrical schematics, assisting with circuit design, supporting senior engineers in troubleshooting, and performing site visits to ensure compliance with specifications. Early projects often involve collaborating with cross-functional teams, such as mechanical engineers and project managers, to help deliver solutions on time and within budget. You'll likely use industry-standard software tools and participate in regular team meetings to discuss progress and address challenges. Over time, you will gain increasing responsibility as you demonstrate your technical skills and reliability.

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

To thrive as an Associate Electrical Engineer, you need a solid understanding of electrical engineering principles, a relevant bachelor's degree, and foundational experience with circuit design and analysis. Familiarity with industry-standard CAD software (such as AutoCAD or MATLAB), electrical simulation tools, and occasionally an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification are commonly expected. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you collaborate effectively on complex projects and convey technical information clearly. These abilities are crucial for ensuring accurate designs, meeting project deadlines, and contributing positively to multidisciplinary engineering teams.
What are the most commonly searched types of Electrical Engineer jobs in Decorah, IA? The most popular types of Electrical Engineer jobs in Decorah, IA are:
What cities near Decorah, IA are hiring for Associate Electrical Engineer jobs? Cities near Decorah, IA with the most Associate Electrical Engineer job openings:
Instrumentation & Electrical (I&E) Engineer

Instrumentation & Electrical (I&E) Engineer

Donaldson Company, Inc.

Cresco, IA

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Donaldson is committed to solving the world's most complex filtration challenges. Together, we make cool things. As an established technology and innovation leader, we are continuously evolving to meet the filtration needs of our changing world. Join a culture of collaboration and innovation that matters and a chance to learn, effect change, and make meaningful contributions at work and in communities.

The Instrumentation & Electrical (I&E) Engineer is responsible for overseeing the maintenance and repair of instrumentation, control systems, and electrical equipment throughout our plant. This role requires advanced technical skills to inspect, calibrate, test, adjust, install, remove, and advise on a wide range of electronic and electrical systems in a unionized environment.

Qualified candidates must be able to work an on-site schedule at our Cresco, IA facility.

Role Responsibilities:

  • Directs, leads, and participates in the maintenance, calibration, installation, troubleshooting, and repair of electrical, mechanical, and pneumatic instruments and systems.

  • Calibrates, troubleshoots, and assists in the repair of plant instrumentation, including transmitters, analyzers, control valves, switches, and relays

  • Responsible for inspection, repair, installation, and removal of generators, transformers, switches, control equipment, wiring, communication systems, and batteries

  • Oversees work with Motor Control Centers (MCCs) and Allen-Bradley Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), and automation systems, including PLCs and DCS platforms

  • Ownership over accurate records, logs, drawings, and documentation for instrumentation and electrical equipment

  • Collaborates with production teams to prioritize maintenance activities based on operational needs and deployment of resources to the highest priority activities

  • Plans and supports installation, commissioning, and optimization of new equipment

  • Assists other technical staff and management with testing and troubleshooting activities

  • Promotes and adhere to all safety standards while fostering a strong safety culture

  • Identifies and implements continuous improvement initiatives to drive efficiency and reduce costs

  • Assists in management, direction, and supervision of maintenance work force and tasks. Serves as backup to the Maintenance Supervisor as needed.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma

  • Completion of an Instrumentation or Electrical Technician program

  • Minimum of 3 years of experience as a technician in a related industry

  • Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, drawings, and schematics

  • Understanding of NEC (National Electrical Code) classifications and demonstrated knowledge of Hazardous Energy Control (LOTO)

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and ability to learn company systems

Preferred Qualifications:

  • 5+ years of experience as an I&E Technician, Lead or Supervisor

  • Associate degree in instrumentation, controls, or electrical technology

  • Working knowledge of safety regulations and industrial best practices

  • Valid State Electrical License

  • Advanced PLC programming experience across multiple platforms

  • Strong mathematical and analytical skills with a methodical approach to problem-solving

  • Previous experience as a supervisor or lead

  • Previous experience in a unionized environment

  • Strong problem-solving, communication, and multitasking skills

  • Ability to work flexible schedules, including on-call weekends as required

  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and collaborate effectively with teams

  • Demonstrates strong adaptability in a fast-paced industrial environment.

  • Ability to meet the physical requirements and working conditions of the site including the utilization of all required PPE.

Immigration Sponsorship Not Available:

  • Applicants for this position must be currently and legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future sponsorship (e.g., H-1B, J-1, F-1, CPT, OPT, etc.).

  • Donaldson will not offer immigration sponsorship or assume sponsorship of an employment visa for this position.

  • International relocation or remote work arrangements outside of the U.S. will not be considered.

Key Words: Electrical, Blueprints, Technician, Allen-Bradley

Equal Opportunity Employer, including Disability and Veterans

Employment opportunities for positions in the United States may require use of information which is subject to the export control regulations of the United States. Hiring decisions for such positions are required by law to be made in compliance with these regulations. Applicants for employment opportunities in other countries must be able to meet the comparable export control requirements of that country and of the United States.

Donaldson Company has been made aware that there are several recruiting scams that are targeting job seekers. These scams have attempted to solicit money for job applications and/or collect confidential information, Donaldson will never solicit money during the application or recruiting process. Donaldson only accepts online applications through our Careers | Donaldson Company, Inc. website and any communication from a Donaldson recruiter would be sent using a donaldson.com email address. If you have any questions about the legitimacy of an employment opportunity, please reach out to talentacquisition@donaldson.com to verify that the communication is from Donaldson.

Our policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to race, gender, color, disability, national origin, age, religion, union affiliation, sexual orientation, veteran status, citizenship, gender identity and/or expression, or other status protected by law.