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Associate Process Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Job Purpose and Impact As an Engineer I, you'll play an active, day-to-day role in improving how all aspects of a soybean processing plant operate together-working continuously alongside operators ...

Job Purpose and Impact As an Engineer I, youll play an active, day-to-day role in improving how all aspects of a soybean processing plant operate togetherworking continuously alongside operators ...

... data processing and analysis. You will be responsible for developing and implementing data ... Engineer Associate, Snowflake Core, Snowflake Databricks Data Engineer Associate] is a plus ...

... Engineer - Senior Associate, you will focus on designing and building data infrastructure and ... data processing and analysis. You will be responsible for developing and implementing data ...

The incumbent works in an entry-level capacity under the guidance of more experienced engineer and associates. MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES: • Learns Altec's product lines and systems/rules/processes ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Osceola, IA · On-site

$68K - $88K/yr

The incumbent works in an entry-level capacity under the guidance of more experienced engineer and associates. MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES: • Learns Altec's product lines and systems/rules/processes ...

OpenCV-based image processing for document analysis. * CI/CD with Terraform, GitLab, and GitLab ... AWS certification required such as Solutions Architect Associate, Developer Associate, Machine ...

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Associate Process Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$39K

$77.6K

$124K

How much do associate process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate process 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Process Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Process Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical or mechanical engineering, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with process simulation software (like Aspen Plus or HYSYS), data analysis tools, and knowledge of industry standards is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and troubleshoot process issues. These skills ensure efficient process optimization, safety, and continuous improvement in manufacturing or production environments.

What jobs pay 70k a year with an associate's degree?

An Associate Process Engineer can earn around $70,000 annually, especially with experience and relevant skills in process optimization, quality control, and manufacturing environments. Other roles such as industrial technician, manufacturing supervisor, or quality engineer also offer similar salaries for those with an associate's degree and technical training.

What does an Associate Process Engineer do?

An Associate Process Engineer assists in designing, optimizing, and troubleshooting manufacturing processes within industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, or food production. They work under the supervision of senior engineers to improve efficiency, ensure product quality, and maintain safety standards. Their responsibilities often include data collection, process analysis, and supporting the implementation of new technologies or equipment. This entry-level role provides hands-on experience and is a stepping stone to more advanced engineering positions.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as petroleum, aerospace, and software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-paying engineering positions often require specialized knowledge, advanced degrees, and sometimes certifications like PE or PMP, along with working in high-demand industries or managerial capacities.

What is an associate process engineer?

An associate process engineer is an entry-level or junior engineer responsible for supporting the development, implementation, and optimization of manufacturing or industrial processes. They often work under the supervision of senior engineers, utilize process simulation tools, and may require knowledge of quality control and safety standards.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes leadership roles or executive responsibilities.

How does an Associate Process Engineer typically collaborate with other departments during a project?

As an Associate Process Engineer, you'll work closely with cross-functional teams such as production, quality assurance, maintenance, and safety. Your role often involves gathering input from operators, coordinating with quality teams to resolve issues, and collaborating with senior engineers on process improvements. Regular communication and teamwork are essential, as you'll be expected to provide technical support, participate in meetings, and help implement solutions that align with overall operational goals. This collaborative environment not only enhances your technical skills but also helps you build strong professional relationships across the organization.

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

AspectAssociate Process EngineerProcess Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; some certifications preferredBachelor's degree in engineering; often more experience or certifications required
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supporting process development and optimization in manufacturing or chemical plantsMore independent roles, overseeing process improvements and troubleshooting
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, chemical, and pharmaceutical industriesUsed across similar industries, often with more responsibility

The main difference between an Associate Process Engineer and a Process Engineer lies in experience and responsibility. The Associate role is typically entry-level, focusing on supporting process tasks, while the Process Engineer has more independence and oversees process improvements. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but the Process Engineer usually has more experience or certifications. Understanding these distinctions can help job seekers identify the right position for their career stage and goals.

What are the most commonly searched types of Process Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Process Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Process Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Process Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Associate Process Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Associate Process Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Process Engineer job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 55% Full Time, 41% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% 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.
Associate Engineer

Associate Engineer

Cargill

Sioux City, IA • On-site

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Cargill rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 215 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 48 rated food wholesalers


Job description

Cargill is a family company committed to providing food and agricultural solutions to nourish the world in a safe, responsible, and sustainable way. We sit at the heart of the supply chain, partnering with producers and customers to source, make and deliver products that are vital for living. By providing customers with life's essentials, we enable businesses to grow, communities to prosper, and consumers to live well.

This position is in our Ag & Trading enterprise, where we connect producers and users of grains and oilseeds around the globe through origination, trading, processing, and distribution. We also offer a range of farmer services and risk management solutions. 

Job Purpose and Impact

As an Engineer I, you'll play an active, day-to-day role in improving how all aspects of a soybean processing plant operate together-working continuously alongside operators, maintenance teams, and supervisors to optimize how soybeans are crushed into meal and oil. This role is rooted in ongoing, hands-on collaboration, where you'll help identify opportunities, troubleshoot real-world challenges, and implement practical improvements that make the operation safer, smoother, and more efficient.

You'll build a strong foundation by applying engineering standards in a live production environment, learning directly from front-line teams and experienced engineers. Your work will include supporting process improvements, reliability efforts, and small-to-medium capital projects-helping plan, design, and evaluate timelines and costs-while contributing to the upkeep and performance of the systems and equipment that keep the plant running every day.

Key Accountabilities
  • Follow prescribed guidelines or policies to analyze and resolve problems.
  • Continue to build knowledge of the organization, processes and customers.
  • Contribute to designing and improving manufacturing processes, instruments and equipment, testing manufactured products to maintain quality.
  • Handle basic issues and problems under direct supervision, while escalating more complex issues to appropriate staff.
  • Other duties as assigned
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent experience

Prefered Qualifications 

  • Degree in Chemical, Mechanical or Agricultural Engineering
  • Previous industrial co-op or internship experience in Mechanical and Chemical Engineering
  • Experience of continuous processes
  • Manufacturing industry work experience
Position Information
  • Location: Sioux City, Iowa
  • Relocation assistance may be available for this role
  • Work Schedule: Day shift

Equal Opportunity Employer, including Disability/Vet.


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About Cargill

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cargill was founded in 1865 as a single grain warehouse in Iowa, U.S. Since then, we’ve grown to become a global partner connecting people around the planet. But one thing has remained constant over the years: our purpose of nourishing the world in a safe, responsible and sustainable way. Cargill is committed to conducting business with integrity, operating responsibly, enriching communities and nourishing the world. In the fiscal year 2021, Cargill provided $110.5 million in total charitable contributions in 56 countries to support our communities. Cargill businesses and employee-led groups partner with local civic, nonprofit and non-governmental organizations on programs and projects that improve food security and nutrition; support human rights, equity and inclusion; strengthen farmer livelihoods; and advance our commitments in the areas of land use, water and climate.

Industry

Food and drink manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US