1

Associate Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

This Transportation Engineer Associate role is based in the Iowa Department of Transportation's District 1 Materials Office. It involves supporting the District Materials Engineer in overseeing all ...

Engineer, Sr

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$102K - $141K/yr

May collaborate and review designs created by other Engineers and Associate Engineers. * Prepares cost estimates, material requisitions, specifications, and drawings for internally designed projects.

Collaborate with and review designs created by other Engineers and Associate Engineers to ensure technical accuracy, constructability, and compliance with applicable standards and codes. * Prepare ...

Sr. Electrical Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$102K - $132K/yr

The Senior Electrical Engineer also provides mentorship to associate engineers and designers, contributes to the development of design standards, and supports the expansion of design-build ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Associate Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$39K

$77.6K

$124K

How much do associate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate engineer in Iowa is $77,617.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,500.00 and $89,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate engineer?

Associate Engineers are entry-level engineering professionals who support more experienced engineers in designing, developing, testing, and maintaining various projects in their field. They typically work under supervision and assist with tasks such as drafting technical documents, conducting research, analyzing data, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Associate Engineers often gain practical experience and training to advance to higher-level engineering roles as they develop their skills.

What are some typical challenges associate engineers face when transitioning from academic projects to industry roles?

Associate Engineers often find the transition from academic projects to industry roles challenging due to differences in project scope, teamwork dynamics, and pace. In industry, you’ll likely work on larger, multi-disciplinary teams where effective communication and collaboration are crucial. Additionally, projects often have stricter deadlines and require adherence to established processes and standards, which may be less emphasized in academic settings. Embracing continuous learning and seeking mentorship from senior engineers can help ease this transition and set you up for success.

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

To thrive as an Associate Engineer, you need a solid grasp of engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with CAD software, industry-specific tools, and basic project management systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication set standout candidates apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering accurate technical solutions and contributing effectively to engineering projects.

What is the difference between Associate Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectAssociate EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; entry-level certificationsBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering; professional licensure (optional)
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and support roles in engineering teams; often in office or lab settingsDesign, analysis, and manufacturing in industrial or construction settings
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level position across various industries like manufacturing, construction, and techDesign and development roles primarily in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and energy sectors

The main difference between an Associate Engineer and a Mechanical Engineer lies in experience and responsibilities. Associate Engineers are typically entry-level, focusing on supporting engineering tasks, while Mechanical Engineers have more experience and handle complex design and analysis responsibilities. Both roles require a bachelor's degree, but Mechanical Engineers often pursue licensure for advanced roles. The choice depends on your experience level and career goals within engineering fields.

How much does an associate engineer get paid?

An associate engineer's average salary typically ranges from $60,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on industry, location, and experience. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Salaries often increase with experience and additional responsibilities.

What can I do with an associate engineer's degree in engineering?

An associate engineer's degree prepares individuals for entry-level engineering roles such as technician, assistant engineer, or project support staff. These positions often involve tasks like drafting, testing, data analysis, and using tools like CAD software, with opportunities for on-the-job training and certification to advance in engineering fields.

What is the salary of an associate engineer?

The salary of an associate engineer typically ranges from $60,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on factors such as industry, location, and experience. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced associates or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages.

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 Associate Engineer jobs in Iowa?

For Associate Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Engineer jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Engineer jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Associate Engineer jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Associate Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Engineer jobs in IA?

For Associate Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Associate Engineer job openings in Iowa as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $77,617 per year, or $37.3 per hour.

Associate Engineer - Municipal / Transportation, Iowa

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

$95K - $110K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Associate Engineer - Municipal / Transportation, Iowa

** CED, Cedar Rapids, IA, US

Job Summary/Objective

The ideal candidate is a driven individual focused on building a career with our team with professional presence, solid decision-making, planning, and organizational skills. May serve as Project Engineer on assigned projects. Applies broad knowledge of principles and practices in a specific practice area. Independently evaluates, selects, and adapts standard techniques, procedures, and criteria. Acquires general knowledge of principles and practices of related fields, and ability to function on multi-disciplinary teams. Works on multiple projects of moderate size or portions of major projects. Implements quality program.

This is an opportunity to really challenge your critical thinking with a significant opportunity for career growth!

Responsibilities
  • Designs a complete project, system, component, or process.
  • Designs and conducts experiments and analyzes and interprets data.
  • Formulates and solves problems.
  • Plans and coordinates detailed aspects of the engineering services.
  • Prepares scopes, budgets, and schedules for assignments.
  • Assists with proposals to provide professional services or obtain funding for engineering projects or programs.
  • Receives general direction on key objectives.
  • Receives guidance when necessary on unconventional or complex problems, direction on modified techniques, and new approaches on assignments with conflicting criteria.
  • Interacts with clients, customers, officials, contractors, and others.
  • Attends project meetings and presents specific aspects of engineering assignment.
  • Knowledge of and ability to apply the fundamental concepts, practices, and procedures of civil engineering to construction projects
Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering from an ABET accredited program.
  • 4 years of experience required
  • Professional Engineering License
  • Engaged in life-long learning to maintain knowledge of contemporary issues.
  • High level of energy; great at problem solving.
  • Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Strong technical/qualitative writing ability.
  • Strong sense of urgency and self-initiative to meet client deadlines.
Compensation

The estimated compensation range for this position is $95,000 to $110,000. This range is just an estimate for this posting. Actual compensation is dependent upon education, experience, and skills.

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Life, AD&D, short-term, and long-term disability
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Vacation and Sick Leave
  • Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP)
  • 401k Employer Match
Company Summary

Kirkham Michael is an award-winning multi-disciplined civil engineering firm dedicated to the success of our clients. We provide full-service engineering from concept to final design and construction engineering services. Kirkham Michael provides integrated engineering and construction services to a wide variety of public and private clients. We are a dynamic firm focused on our clients’ success and we fulfill project and program needs from initial concept through implementation with innovative, yet practical solutions. We employ results-oriented professionals in offices throughout Nebraska, Iowa, and Kansas.

Kirkham Michael continually invests in our people and their skills to maximize the value delivered to our clients. Our engineering expertise, clear communications, and commitment to our clients’ success have been proven time and again on successful projects throughout the region.

We provide career growth opportunities and recognize and reward an individual's contributions, efforts, and teamwork. Kirkham Michael is a great place to work where you can achieve both your professional and personal goals. Kirkham Michael offers a competitive salary and benefits package, which includes medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance. We have an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP), 401K plan, professional membership and tuition reimbursement program, an employee assistance program, and a flexible spending account.

At Kirkham Michael, employees are rewarded based on performance. You create your own destiny!

Kirkham Michael is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability or protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations.

#J-18808-Ljbffr