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Data Engineer Entry Level Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Product Engineer

Dubuque, IA ยท On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

We are seeking an Entry-Level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our ... Proficiency with CAD and product data management systems is preferred. * Hands-on experience with ...

Project Engineer I: * Entry level role, typically supervised by a Project Manager. * Offers information, helps with coordination and preparation, assists with analyzing and compiling data. * May help ...

Project Engineer I: * Entry level role, typically supervised by a Project Manager. * Offers information, helps with coordination and preparation, assists with analyzing and compiling data. * May help ...

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Data Engineer Entry Level information

See Iowa salary details

$41.8K

$121.8K

$166.7K

How much do data engineer entry level jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for data engineer entry level in Iowa is $121,838.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,500.00 and $129,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical projects or tasks that entry-level data engineers work on during their first year?

As an entry-level data engineer, you can expect to work on tasks such as building and maintaining data pipelines, cleaning and transforming raw data, and supporting the integration of different data sources. You'll often collaborate with data analysts and more senior engineers to ensure data is accurate, accessible, and well-documented. Early projects might include automating data extraction processes, setting up basic ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) workflows, or optimizing database queries. These foundational responsibilities help build the technical and teamwork skills essential for career growth in data engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Data Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Data Engineer, you need foundational knowledge in programming (such as Python or SQL), data structures, and database management, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with ETL tools, cloud platforms (like AWS or Azure), and version control systems is typically expected. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with teams and adapt to evolving data needs. These skills ensure accurate data processing, efficient pipeline development, and successful integration within data-driven organizations.

What does a Data Engineer Entry Level do?

An entry-level data engineer is responsible for designing, building, and maintaining systems that allow organizations to collect, store, and analyze large amounts of data. They typically work with databases, data pipelines, and cloud platforms to ensure data is accessible and reliable for analysis. Entry-level data engineers often assist with cleaning and transforming raw data, automating data workflows, and supporting data scientists and analysts. They also learn best practices in data security and performance optimization as they gain experience.

What is the difference between Data Engineer Entry Level vs Data Analyst Entry Level?

AspectData Engineer Entry LevelData Analyst Entry Level
Required CredentialsBachelor's in CS, IT, or related field; some certifications (e.g., Google Cloud, AWS)Bachelor's in Statistics, Math, or related field; certifications like Microsoft Data Analyst
Work EnvironmentFocus on building data pipelines, databases, and infrastructureFocus on interpreting data, creating reports, and visualizations
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, finance, healthcare, where data infrastructure is keyBusiness intelligence, marketing, finance, and consulting firms

While both roles involve working with data, Data Engineer Entry Level focuses on developing and maintaining data infrastructure, whereas Data Analyst Entry Level emphasizes analyzing data to generate insights. Both roles require strong technical skills and are essential in data-driven organizations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Data Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Data Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Data Engineer Entry Level jobs in Iowa? For Data Engineer Entry Level jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Data Engineer Entry Level jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Data Engineer Entry Level jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Data Engineer Entry Level jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Data Engineer Entry Level job openings:
Mechanical Product Engineer

Mechanical Product Engineer

RFA Engineering

Dubuque, IA โ€ข On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an Entry-Level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility.
This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.
Mechanical Product Engineer
The Mechanical Product Engineer will work closely with cross-functional teams including design, manufacturing, quality, and testing to implement engineering changes, improve product reliability, and support new product development activities. This position offers the opportunity to work directly with machines, components, and engineering documentation throughout the product lifecycle.
Responsibilities
  • Develop and implement engineering changes to improve product performance, quality, and manufacturability.
  • Collaborate with internal teams and industry partners to review and incorporate design updates across multiple product platforms.
  • Analyze bills of materials (BOMs) and identify opportunities for part commonization and component substitutions.
  • Process and document engineering change requests while ensuring accuracy and completeness of product records.
  • Support product improvement initiatives through evaluation, prioritization, and implementation of design changes.
  • Participate in quality investigations by reviewing returned components and evaluating product performance.
  • Perform machine fit-ups, inspections, and validation activities to verify product functionality and design intent.
  • Work closely with design, quality, manufacturing, and test engineering teams to resolve product issues.
  • Support new product development programs through machine rebuilds, component adoption, and product validation activities.
  • Develop and maintain field kit documentation, bills of materials, decals, and translated product information.
  • Coordinate fit-up and installation of new components and materials on equipment to verify proper integration.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related engineering field.
  • Experience with mechanical design, product development, or product support activities.
  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and bills of materials.
  • Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
  • Experience working with cross-functional engineering teams.
  • Excellent communication and organizational skills.
  • Proficiency with CAD and product data management systems is preferred.
  • Hands-on experience with mechanical equipment, assemblies, or machine testing is preferred.

Desired Attributes
  • Experience supporting off-highway, agricultural, construction, or industrial equipment.
  • Knowledge of engineering change management processes.
  • Experience with product validation, quality investigations, and root cause analysis.
  • Familiarity with BOM management and product documentation systems.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Pay Range: $65,000-$85,000 - Commensurate with experience
About RFA Engineering
RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits
  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • TelaDoc Healthiest You
  • Supplemental Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Short-term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • HSA for Medical Expenses
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.