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Associate Engineer Jobs in Des Moines, IA (NOW HIRING)

Snyder & Associates

Civil Engineering Co-Op

Ankeny, IA · On-site

Snyder & Associates is looking to fill multiple co-op positions in the Ankeny, Iowa office for the ... Co-ops at Snyder & Associates will take on specific assignments from engineers, project managers ...

Snyder & Associates

Civil Engineering Co-Op

Ankeny, IA · On-site

Overview Snyder & Associates is looking to fill multiple co-op positions in the Ankeny, Iowa office ... Responsibilities Co-ops at Snyder & Associates will take on specific assignments from engineers ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsAssociate Engineer JobsAssociate Engineer Jobs in Des Moines, IA

Associate Engineer information

See Des Moines, IA salary details

$40.5K

$80.6K

$128.8K

How much do associate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate engineer in Des Moines, IA is $80,647.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,900.00 and $92,700.00 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.
More about Associate Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Des Moines, IA?

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

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

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

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

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

Associate Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Engineer job openings in Des Moines, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $80,647 per year, or $38.8 per hour.

Experienced Civil Engineer - Water & Wastewater Systems

Snyder & Associates

Ankeny, IA

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Snyder & Associates seeks an experienced civil engineer with a strong background in planning, designing, and delivering complex water and wastewater treatment projects. You’ll join a team of forwardthinking, passionate professionals committed to lifelong learning and meaningful community impact. With more than 300 specialists across engineering, environmental science, surveying, and landscape architecture, you’ll be supported by people who elevate one another’s work and by a benefits package designed to give you peace of mind that you and your family are cared for. As regulations evolve and infrastructure ages, communities are looking for partners who can help modernize facilities, strengthen system resilience, and confidently move projects from concept to construction. Our team leans into that work with curiosity, collaboration, and a commitment to solutions that genuinely support the communities we serve.

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.


  • Involved with planning, directing, and monitoring all aspects of water and wastewater infrastructure projects with a focus on treatment
  • Ability to work with minimal direction throughout the project delivery process
  • Successfully manage and coordinate multiple projects concurrently
  • Implement QA/QC procedures
  • Monitor financial aspects of projects and coordinate and adjust work effort with the project team to ensure efficient project delivery and identify outofscope work elements
  • Prioritize schedule and budget development and maintenance throughout the project life cycle, communicating scope creep quickly to project stakeholders
  • Act as a mentor for lessexperienced engineers and project managers
  • Establish new and maintain existing client relationships with strong communication abilities
  • Develop scope, schedule, and fees for planning and design projects
  • Proactively visualize project workflow, including identifying critical path milestones and work elements

  • Minimum 10 years of design experience completing complex water and wastewater projects with a focus on treatment
  • Minimum 5 years of project management experience
  • Bachelor’s degree in an applicable engineering field
  • PE designation required
  • Strong client and project management skills
  • Familiarity with water and wastewater funding sources, including SRF, USDA, and CDBG

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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