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Engineering Physicist Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

RFA Engineering

Vehicle Dynamics Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

Bachelors of Science in Mechanical, Mechatronics, Systems Engineering, Physics or equivalent degree. * Masters of Science with a related concentration in System Dynamics would be ideal. * Strong ...

Varsity Tutors

College Physics Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes connecting mathematical formulations to physical intuition and applies physics to engineering, medical, and technology contexts. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar ...

Varsity Tutors

College Physics Tutor

Iowa City, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes connecting mathematical formulations to physical intuition and applies physics to engineering, medical, and technology contexts. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar ...

Varsity Tutors

Physics 2 Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain Gauss law, electromagnetic induction, wave optics, and the photoelectric effect while preparing students for advanced physics coursework, engineering applications, and MCAT ...

Varsity Tutors

High School Physics Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes building physical intuition alongside mathematical skills and connects physics concepts to everyday experiences, sports, engineering, and technology applications. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Varsity Tutors

Physics 2 Tutor

Iowa City, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain Gauss law, electromagnetic induction, wave optics, and the photoelectric effect while preparing students for advanced physics coursework, engineering applications, and MCAT ...

Varsity Tutors

High School Physics Tutor

Iowa City, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes building physical intuition alongside mathematical skills and connects physics concepts to everyday experiences, sports, engineering, and technology applications. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Varsity Tutors

AP Physics 1 Tutor

Iowa City, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes qualitative reasoning alongside quantitative problem-solving and connects physics to engineering and everyday phenomena. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar with AP ...

Varsity Tutors

AP Physics 1 Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes qualitative reasoning alongside quantitative problem-solving and connects physics to engineering and everyday phenomena. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar with AP ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Rolfe, IA

$91K - $109K/yr

Completion of a rigorous technical degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or a closely related field that includes strong backgrounds in calculus and physics; outstanding academic record ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Monticello, IA

$94K - $113K/yr

Completion of a rigorous technical degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or a closely related field that includes strong backgrounds in calculus and physics; outstanding academic record ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Independence, IA

$93K - $111K/yr

Completion of a rigorous technical degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or a closely related field that includes strong backgrounds in calculus and physics; outstanding academic record ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Ogden, IA

$96K - $116K/yr

Completion of a rigorous technical degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or a closely related field that includes strong backgrounds in calculus and physics; outstanding academic record ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Russell, IA

$104K - $124K/yr

Completion of a rigorous technical degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or a closely related field that includes strong backgrounds in calculus and physics; outstanding academic record ...

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All JobsEngineering Physicist JobsEngineering Physicist Jobs in Iowa

Engineering Physicist information

See Iowa salary details

$37.1K

$89K

$212.7K

How much do engineering physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for engineering physicist in Iowa is $89,047.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,400.00 and $105,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does an engineering physicist typically collaborate with multidisciplinary teams during project development?

Engineering Physicists often work closely with engineers, material scientists, and researchers to bridge the gap between theoretical concepts and practical applications. They play a key role in translating complex physics principles into innovative solutions for real-world engineering challenges. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as Engineering Physicists contribute specialized knowledge during brainstorming, prototyping, and testing phases. This collaborative environment fosters professional growth and exposes team members to a broad range of technical perspectives.

What is an engineering physicist?

Engineering Physicists are professionals who apply principles of physics and engineering to solve complex technical problems, develop new technologies, and improve existing processes or devices. They bridge the gap between pure scientific research and practical engineering applications, often working in industries such as aerospace, energy, electronics, and manufacturing. Their work can involve designing experiments, creating prototypes, and conducting simulations to test new theories or products. Engineering Physicists typically have a strong background in both physics and engineering and are skilled at using advanced mathematical and computational tools.

How much does an engineering physicist make?

Engineering physicists typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000, with salaries varying based on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals or those in specialized fields can earn significantly more. They often work in research, development, or technical roles requiring strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of physics and engineering principles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an engineering physicist?

To thrive as an Engineering Physicist, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and engineering principles, typically evidenced by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in engineering physics or a related field. Familiarity with simulation software, laboratory instrumentation, and modeling tools such as MATLAB or COMSOL is commonly required, and certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) can be advantageous. Critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating across disciplines and presenting complex findings. These competencies enable Engineering Physicists to develop innovative solutions and bridge the gap between scientific research and practical engineering applications.

What does an engineering physicist do?

An engineering physicist applies principles of physics to develop and improve technology, often working on research, design, and testing of new devices or systems. They use advanced math, modeling software, and laboratory equipment to solve complex technical problems in industries such as aerospace, electronics, or energy.
What are popular job titles related to Engineering Physicist jobs in Iowa? For Engineering Physicist jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Engineering Physicist jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Engineering Physicist jobs in Iowa are:
Engineering Physicist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Engineering Physicist job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 59% In-person, and 41% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $89,047 per year, or $42.8 per hour.

Vehicle Dynamics Engineer

RFA Engineering

Waterloo, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 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 a growth-oriented 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.
Vehicle Dynamics Engineer
This position requires aptitude in support of Dynamic Systems Modeling (DSM) and analysis as it pertains to whole machine configurations. Through the creation, refinement, and execution of system models, this position will provide analytical support to product development and design.
Job Description
  • Provide direct analytical support for one or more product groups.
  • Develop a growing understanding of product function.
  • Lead in the development of measurable dynamic performance specifications using simulation and other engineering analysis methods.
  • Work with design teams to develop virtual simulation models that can be used to verify designs analytically.
  • Develop dynamic system analysis plans for specific product development programs.
  • Report results using a standardized reporting system.
  • Document processes that can be used to continually improve our ability to analytically develop and verify our product designs.
  • Contribute to Product and Component Technical Specifications, Design Guidelines, and Engineering Analysis Procedures.
  • Create and maintain vehicle dynamic models using Matlab, Simulink and Simscape programs.

Technical Responsibilities
  • Understand the dynamic interactions of hydraulic systems, linkages, rigid bodies, engines, drivetrains, and control systems.
  • Support the development of robust control strategies for product innovation and differentiation.
  • Use Engineering analysis tools to assess complex hydro-electro-mechanical systems.
  • Contribute to the specification/selection of components and subsystems for optimal machine level performance.
  • Generate objective machine level dynamic performance objectives that capture ambiguous and/or subjective operator and customer feedback.
  • Support the vision for how analysis tools can change the way Design and PV&V Engineering work is done.
  • Resolve stability issues that can arise from the above, but that cannot be analyzed using linear theory due to the nonlinear nature of both the primitive elements and the subsystem and machine level interactions.
  • Generate mathematical models for previously un-modeled phenomena.
  • Analyze simulation results to distinguish between characteristics of the design and artifacts of the mathematical models.

Requirements
  • Bachelors of Science in Mechanical, Mechatronics, Systems Engineering, Physics or equivalent degree.
  • Masters of Science with a related concentration in System Dynamics would be ideal.
  • Strong interest in vehicle physics and free body diagrams.

Desired Skills and Experience
  • Experience with hydraulics, controls, powertrain, and electrical systems beneficial.
  • Experience with MATLAB, Simscape, Simulink, Simscape Fluids, Simscape Multibody is desirable.
  • Experience in a production environment working with cross functional teams.
  • Experience with operating agriculture equipment or off-highway mobile equipment.
  • Experience with Matlab, Simulink and Simscape, or other vehicle dynamics simulation software (i.e. Ansys Motion, GT-Suite - GT-3DMBD Vehicle Dynamics) is preferred
  • Ideal candidate will have 1-3 years of related work experience, but entry level being considered.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
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.

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