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Associate Engineer Jobs in Clive, IA (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 ...

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 ...

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Associate Engineer information

See Clive, IA salary details

$40.7K

$80.9K

$129.3K

How much do associate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate engineer in Clive, IA is $80,946.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,200.00 and $93,100.00 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 Clive, IA?

The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Clive, IA are:

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Associate Engineer job openings in Clive, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,946 per year, or $38.9 per hour.

Transportation Engineer Associate

Ames, IA • On-site

State of Iowa
Public Administration • 10K+ employees

$66K - $103K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


State Of Iowa rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 87 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Description 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 materials for highway and bridge projects across Central Iowa. The position includes learning how to inspect, sample, and test project materials, operating the district materials testing laboratory, monitoring production at highway material sources, managing material documentation during project audits, and offering technical advice.

Iowa Department of Transportation's Mission is Making Lives Better Through Transportation. To accomplish our Mission, the person selected for this position will demonstrate actions and behaviors guided by the Iowa Department of Transportation's five CORE values: Safety First, People Matter, Customer Focused, Servant Leadership, and Integrity Without Exception. Location: Ames District Office Shift Requirements: 7:45 AM - 4:30 PM Monday through Friday; flexible schedule and telework available if duties allow.

As a Materials Transportation Engineer Associate, your duties will include, but are not limited to: Assisting in overseeing all materials inspection, sampling, and testing activities by District Materials Office staff. Inspection and monitoring oversight of project-specific portable pavement recycling plants, PCC plants, HMA plants, and aggregate production facilities. Provides highway materials technical assistance through consultation to a variety of customers, including Iowa DOT staff, County/City/Consultant staff, contractors, and materials producers.

Involvement with the project materials audit process. Involvement with the Independent Assurance Program (IAP) for materials testing in the District. Involvement in technical committees and work groups to improve Department specifications, processes, and policies.

Reviews quality control plans for materials suppliers and manufacturers. Performs special assignments as directed by the District Materials Engineer, which may include sampling, testing, assisting construction personnel, administering field training of personnel, and undertaking the duties of the District Materials Engineer in their absence. Requirements: Must possess and maintain a valid Class C Non-Commercial Operator's License.

Must possess or obtain Technical Training and Certification Program (TTCP) certifications: Aggregate Technician, Level 1,2,3 PCC, Level 1 & 2 HMA, Prestress, and Ride Quality. As a State of Iowa employee, you will be eligible for the following benefits: Competitive pay and benefits package including health, dental, flexible spending, and life insurance Insurance benefits start the first month following 30 days of employment and costs can be reviewed here. Opportunities for professional growth and development.

Paid time off effective immediately - biweekly vacation, separate sick leave, accruals rollover on a yearly basis, and 9 paid holidays per year. Iowa Public Employee Retirement System (IPERS) Retirement Package with employer match Optional 401A plan with employer contributions. Employee Discount Programs from a variety of vendors (vision, cellular, fitness, recreation, season passes, travel, counseling; legal, financial).

We encourage you to view more about the State of Iowa Employee benefits and costs at the State of Iowa Employee Benefits Website. You have the freedom to flourish in Iowa - Apply now. Iowa DOT complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities.

If a reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact the EEO & ADA Officer at 515-689-1009 or via email at amy.weerheim@iowadot.us. The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States

The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit www.e-verify.gov Minimum Qualification Requirements Applicants must meet at least one of the following minimum requirements to qualify for positions in this job classification: Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor's degree in chemical, civil, construction, environmental, materials, mechanics, structural, or transportation engineering or in engineering management. Possession of a verification of graduation with major course work in chemical, civil, construction, environmental, materials, mechanics, structural, or transportation engineering or in engineering management

For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description. Additional Qualification Requirements Applicants hired with verification of graduation will be required to graduate with a bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university within 10 months of hire. Within a period of time after hire, as determined by the appointing authority, employees in this class may be required to obtain one or more of the following certificates, licenses, or endorsements: Certification as an Engineer in Training (EIT) by the Iowa Engineering & Land Surveying Examining Board Licensure as a professional engineer by the Iowa Engineering & Land Surveying Examining Board.


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About State of Iowa

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Iowa is not a company but the governmental structure of the U.S. state of Iowa, stationed in the capital city, Des Moines. The official website, iowa.gov, is a platform dedicated to providing information and services related to the state's governance. As a governmental establishment, the State of Iowa's 'industry' primarily involves social governance, policy-making, and public administration, overseeing sectors like education, health, transportation, agriculture, and other public services.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1939