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Associate Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Snyder & Associates

Civil Engineer - P.E.

Atlantic, IA · On-site

Overview Life At Snyder Over 40 years since its inception, Snyder & Associates has grown to become a large regional civil engineering and planning firm in the Midwest. With thirteen office locations ...

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All JobsAssociate Engineer JobsAssociate Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Associate Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$39K

$77.6K

$124K

How much do associate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 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 are Associate Engineers?

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as software, petroleum, and aerospace engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in competitive industries, managing large projects, or holding executive-level responsibilities.

What can you do with an Associate in engineering?

An associate degree in engineering prepares individuals for technical roles such as engineering technician, CAD drafter, or quality control inspector. These positions often involve supporting engineering projects, using tools like AutoCAD or MATLAB, and may require certification or on-the-job training to develop specialized skills.

What Is an Associate Engineer?

An associate engineer is a lower level engineer in many fields of engineering, including environmental, civil, and mechanical. The title denotes rank and experience level. As an associate engineer, your typical job duties involve analyzing project plans, designing products, maintaining equipment, closely following specifications and procedures, and writing reports. The specific duties vary widely depending upon your field and employer. This career usually requires at least a bachelor’s degree in engineering and obtaining a license in your state. Additional qualifications include relevant work experience, strong technical skills, and a familiarity with your specific industry.

What is the work of an Associate engineer?

An Associate Engineer assists in designing, developing, and testing engineering projects, often supporting senior engineers with technical tasks. They typically use engineering software, follow project specifications, and may need relevant certifications or training to perform their duties effectively.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or certain senior roles in software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often including bonuses and stock options. These positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

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.

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.
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Associate Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Engineer job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,617 per year, or $37.3 per hour.

Experienced Vertical Structures Engineer - Buildings

Snyder & Associates

Des Moines, IA

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Snyder & Associates, Inc. is a well-established civil and structural engineering consulting firm delivering thoughtful, high-quality solutions to public and private clients throughout the Midwest. As community growth continues across Iowa, we are expanding our Shuck-Britson structures team in Des Moines.

This role is ideal for an engineer who brings solid technical expertise, proven project management capabilities, and a collaborative approach to guiding multidisciplinary teams. You’ll shape project strategy from early planning through construction, mentor emerging professionals, and build trusted client relationships that reflect our longstanding reputation for service, quality, and community impact.


What You’ll Do:

  • Lead and support the analysis, planning, and design of vertical structure projects
  • Prepare designs, plans, specifications, and technical reports
  • Collaborate closely with the architects, clients, and consultants in disciplines affiliated to the projects
  • Support projects through construction, including coordination, field review, and problem-solving
  • Contribute to project planning, schedules, budgets, and quality control
  • Mentor junior staff and contribute to the continued growth of our Iowa structures team

What We’re Looking For:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering with a structural emphasis
  • 5+ years of experience in design and construction oversight of vertical structure projects in the U.S.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred (or ability to obtain in Iowa)
  • Demonstrated progressive responsibility and technical growth
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders
  • Demonstrated ability to manage priorities and deliver projects on scope, budget, and schedule
  • A collaborative, solutions-oriented mindset with interest in long-term professional growth

 

Why Snyder & Associates?

  • Ownership at Snyder & Associates is held by employee shareholders, fostering a culture of accountability and long-term commitment
  • Local decision-making — not driven by private equity or absentee investors
  • Meaningful projects that serve Iowa communities and strengthen regional infrastructure
  • Strong relationships with public and private clients
  • Opportunities for technical leadership, project ownership, and continued professional growth
  • Stable, respected firm with deep roots in Iowa
  • Supportive culture that values teamwork, integrity, and long-term partnerships

 

Life At Snyder

Snyder & Associates has grown to become a large regional civil engineering and planning firm in the Midwest. With thirteen office locations in five states, the communities we serve are the same places we proudly call home. For us, it’s about more than just the project at hand. It’s about improving community quality of life, which is why 94 percent of our existing clients continue to trust us as an extension of their staff. Watch the Snyder & Associates About Us Video to learn more. You’ll also find a welcoming, familyoriented atmosphere that encourages connection, celebrates achievements, and offers opportunities to engage with the community and bring engineering to life outside the office, empowering you to grow your career while making a difference in the places we proudly call home.

Snyder & Associates, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Snyder & Associates, Inc. is an E-Verify employer.

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